Used old high-tech? or middle of the line new?

[switchback]

I have around ~$250 to spend on a mb and processor. I already have a case, power supply, and video card. Should I buy something used? like a core 2 quad? or zeon? Or should I buy a new i3 or i5? Also, what generally seems to be the most reliable motherboard?

Thanks.

 

[esrever]

I'd say buy the new if you can afford it since its usually better than the old in terms of technology at least.

Depends on how much you can buy the c2q and mobo for. The i3 will be more powerful than the core 2 quad.

 

[rage33]

Yeah, you can get an idea and decent motherboard and i3 for $250. Also a lot of times new tech is cheaper than old tech. For example try to find a 8GB kit of ddr2 memory for $40, you won't be able to.

 

[PreferLinux]

Basically, old high-end stuff will only equal (depending on the age, I'm talking one generation older) the performance of the modern mid-range stuff. It will also use significantly more power, and probably cost as much, if not significantly more (unless it is second-hand, as older unused hardware tends to keep its value).

 

[switchback]

Thanks for the advice. I decided on this build: http://dealnews.com/AMD-6-Core-2.7-GHz-Barebones-PC-for-285-after-rebates-free-shipping/546453.html

with an AMD 6 Core processor.