Proper CPU for this mobo?

What is your budget?

I would look at either the AM3 870G, 880G or 890GX chipset motherboards depending on your needs (depending if you plan to run DDR3 memory).

I hadn't on intended on actually switching mobos, just the actual CPU. I haven't really given it much consideration.

My complete computer "upgrade time" budget is 360 dollars. But I already need a new PSU and new GPU. I don't think that gives me leeway for a new mobo.

Your motherboard will not support your CPU choice... http://www.msi.com/index.php?func=prodcpu2&prod_no=1472...

You will need to go with the Athlon II X4 250, as your best AM3 processor. I would recommended saving additional money and wait before making the upgrade and do the CPU, MOBO & RAM. This will give you your best improvement.

I might wait, but just for clarification - I don't think there's such thing as an Athlon II X4 250?

The closest I can find is the Athlon II X4 600 series.

You are correct... Typo on my part   I meant the Athlon II X2 250 for your CPU.

Alright, well I may wait a bit. I'll just have to juggle my options. I'll save this thread to my favorites folder so I can review it on a need-to-be basis.


I appreciate all the input.

A thought arose while poking around looking for mobos, i'm using DDR2 memory right now and am fairly content with it and would like to save the money of having to replace it with DDR3. Are there any medium-high performance mobos that support DDR2 out there? I realize this derails the thread a little, but you've given me good input so far.

When I say medium- high on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being best available, i'm talking maybe 6.5 or 7.

look for a 790 chipset mobo. They are one season older than the current 8XX series. Still very good (i'm still using one). The 790's support DDR2 and Athlon II CPUs. Look for a Biostar 790GX AM2+ (I can't browse newegg at work). These boards should be less than $100 by now...

Yeah I looked up that model, but all I could see were microboards? The only full-size mobos I saw of that line were open box and had terrible reviews.

Are you looking for a mobo that supports the older CPU's that support DDR-2 memory?