965 is a true quad core cpu, the 4100 is a dual module cpu, while similar in naming, technially the 4100 is missing a couple of FPU parts that the 965 has.
I was also confused between phenom and fx but i purchased FX 4100 and currently using it right now with AMD Radeon 6850 without overclocking. I can play Battlefield 3, NFS The run and other games in ultra settings without any problem.
My specs are:
CPU: AMD FX 4100
RAM: 8GB
GPU: AMD Radeon 6850
PSU: 600w
I think, AMD FX are not that bad. at least for me.
It may be old but it's got higher IPC and does better in games than FX. Even when overclocking you need 4.5Ghz+ on an FX to match the performance of Phenom II @ 4.0Ghz. Stock speeds the 965 is faster, overclocking included their about even given their typical overclock range.
I was also confused between phenom and fx but i purchased FX 4100 and currently using it right now with AMD Radeon 6850 without overclocking. I can play Battlefield 3, NFS The run and other games in ultra settings without any problem.
My specs are:
CPU: AMD FX 4100
RAM: 8GB
GPU: AMD Radeon 6850
PSU: 600w
I think, AMD FX are not that bad. at least for me.
I was running similar, Same Card, more memory and 6850 and play Battlefield 3 also without issues.