Relative gaming performance of 3 CPU's

[Tukk]

Hi, folks,

Question is this: Given that the game I play is extremely CPU-intensive (EQ2), and keeping all other system components the same (except for the chipset and RAM differences), how much of a performance difference would I likely see moving from a Core2 Duo 8400 to a Pentium Dual Core G860 on a Z77 mainboard? From the G860 to an i5-2500K or i5-3570K (assuming I don't overclock)? I'm gonna upgrade, 'cause the 8400 is getting pretty tired, but I'd like to try to get a real good bang for my buck.

 

[Soda-88]

Pentium G860 performs pretty much equally as C2D E8400.
http://www.anandtech.com/bench/Product/56?vs=406

You should consider getting i3 3220 at the very least to make the buy worthwhile.
http://www.anandtech.com/bench/Product/56?vs=677

Getting i5 3570K and Z77 board is pointless if you don't intend to OC. You can save money getting i5 3470/3570 and H77 board instead.

 

[Tukk]

Best answer selected by Tukk.