Is the e8400 outdated?

when will games start using quad cores for gaming? thanks

Some games do use a quad, most upcoming games should begin using them as programing for quads is becoming more common and doesnt present a performance penalty to those who only have dual core CPUs.

E8400 is still one of the best cpus out there. If you have it, you really don't need to upgrade for gaming...if you don't have it, you might as well get a quad core since the dual core e8x00 are overpriced compared to the quads.

Whats the best quad for the money. I would get a i5 build but am scared about the socket problems. is the e8400 worth a little over $100? thanks

well i dont... i was going to get a i5 but the socket problems and intel releasing 2 other sockets im not shure if its worth it. I just wanted to get some other peoples thoughts. also how does the q9550 compare for $200? thanks

If you are starting from scratch (getting a new computer), go with the 1156 i5's or 1156 i7's. Or if you're an enthusiast, go for the 1366 i7's.

If you already have a 775 motherboard and are planning to upgrade, get a Q9550 from Microcenter for $180 (which is about $60 or so cheaper than Newegg). If you don't live near a Microcenter, then get a Q8400 for about $160 and overclock it or get a Q9400 for about $190. Overall, I actually suggest you get a used cpu from ebay where it'll be cheaper. (or get it from the classifieds-section here on Tomshardware forums)