Classic debate: Intel vs AMD (2500k vs 8150)

[mikepreble]

I need help deciding on a CPU for a 3D animation/game development box that I'll be making 15 of for a school's computer lab.

I know Intel's 2500k is a great CPU. But into looking at alternatives, the FX 8150 jumped up. I can get an overall cheaper rig if I base it on the 8150/AMD model, but I don't know if I'll also be significantly sacrificing performance as well.

So, is Intel's 2500K processor so much better than AMD's FX 8150 that it's worth spending $1500 more (~$100 x 15 computers) on an already tight budget?

 

[Brett928S2]

Hi

Having been a School Governor, I would guess its ALL about budget....so I would go with the cheapest...AMD...

All the best Brett

 

[rolli59]

You tell us http://www.anandtech.com/bench/Product/434?vs=288
Then again I am presuming that this is not getting overclocked so you could offset some of the cost down by going I5 2300/2400 with H67 or H75/77 motherboards.

 

[mikepreble]

Yes, it IS all about the budget. But there's enough to squeak by with 15 Intel boxes. If I could save money I could get the students something else like some new chairs too, which would be nice.

 

[JackNaylorPE]

At system build cost above $800, I don't see any place at the table for AMD.

 

[mikepreble]

Yes, you are correct, there probably won't be any overclocking. However, this is the one big hardware upgrade my lab gets for 5 years. So, I wanted the K series so I could overclock them if needed.

 

[mikepreble]

The ideal build price would be $850 - 900, but I can go up to $1000 if absolutely needed.

 

[mikepreble]

Best answer selected by mikepreble.