AMD Phenom x4 9650 Processor vs. Althlon 64 x2 5400

[RonInAk]

In May ;09 and on a strict budget, I purchased a HP Pavilion Slimline s3707c from Sam's Club for $599. I've been having problems with it, including overheating. Now, because of the problems and because it's less than a year old, I can take it back and either get a refund (not sure about the refund) or exchange (certain about that).

Specs on the s3707c are:

Bundle information
The s3707c-b desktop PC bundle (part number FQ579AA) includes:

* s3707c Desktop PC, part number FQ578AA

* w2007 20" lcd wide-screen monitor with integrated speakers

Hardware
Base processor
Athlon 64 X2 (B) 5400+ 2.8 GHz (65W)

*
800 MHz front side bus
*
Socket AM2

Chipset
GeForce 9100
Motherboard

*
Manufacturer: Pegatron
*
Motherboard Name: APX78-BN
*
HP/Compaq motherboard name: Nutmeg-GL6E

Power supply

*
160W

Memory
Component Attributes
Memory Installed 4 GB
Maximum allowed 4 GB* (2 x 2 GB)

*Actual available memory may be less
Speed supported PC2-6400 MB/sec
Type 240 pin, DDR2
Hard drive

*
500 GB SATA 3G (3.0 Gb/sec)
*
7200 rpm

With exchange in mind, I've been looking at the HP Pavilion p6157c, which I can get for $40 more or $639. Specs on it are:

Bundle information
The p6157c-b desktop PC bundle (part number NP254AA) includes:

* p6157c Desktop PC, part number NP253AA

* w2338h 23" LCD wide-screen HDMI monitor with integrated speakers

Hardware
Base processor
Phenom-9650 (A) 2.3 GHz (95W)

*
3600 MHz HyperTransport 3.0
*
Socket AM2+

Chipset
GeForce 9100
Motherboard

*
Manufacturer: Pegatron
*
Motherboard Name: M2N78-LA
*
HP/Compaq motherboard name: Violet-GL8E

Power supply

*
300W

Memory
Component Attributes
Memory Installed 7 GB
Maximum allowed 16 GB (4 x 4 GB) (64-bit OS)

4 GB* (4 x 1 GB) (32-bit OS)

*Actual available memory may be less
Speed supported PC2-6400 MB/sec
Type 240 pin, DDR2
Hard drive

*
750 GB SATA 3G (3.0 Gb/sec)
*
7200 rpm


From my perspective, it seems to me that I would be wise to go ahead and get the newer model, which also looks to me like it has a number of upgrades from my current computer (e.g., more RAM, bigger HD, expandable, extra slots, bigger monitor, etc.). I recognize, however, that my knowledge-base on how to compare computers is VERY limited, so would REALLY appreciate feedback on whether or not I'd be doing better if I trade mine in, vs. keep what I have.

Thanks in advance!

Ron in Anchorage, AK

P.S. Oh, I use for computer for the typical internet searching, documents, pictures, music, etc. - no games or demanding software.

 

[saint19]

Hi newcomer and welcome to the Tom's hardware forum.

You can get this:

CPU $ 60,99 Here
MOBO $ 99,99 Here
RAM $ 99,99 Here
GPU $ 99,99 Here
HDD $ 89,99 Here
PSU $ 89,99 Here
CASE $ 61,99 Here

Total: $ 602,93 + MIR + SHIPPING.

Is a better an more new system. The Phenom and athlon that you post are a little old.

P.D. You can buy a Win 7 version for $100. Tota: 702,93, or maybe less if you can find some combo deals on newegg.com

 

[aford10]

For what you're paying for them, both systems seem like a complete rip.

I think your best bet is to get a refund. Even if it means taking a restocking fee. You may not use the computer for real demanding tasks, but for what you're paying, you could get better.

Check out sites like newegg.com, ibuypower, best buy, staples, even local computer shops may have some good deals to avoid shipping costs.

 

[RonInAk]

Thanks to both of you for your responses!

 

[aford10]

You're welcome.

 

[saint19]

Any time, thas't why we are here.

 

[RonInAk]

Best answer selected by RonInAk.