New 775 motherboard and maybe processer.

sswats · 3 Jul 2010 at 12:13

I currently have a
Gigabyte DS3p
Intel E4300
2x2gb DDR2 memory
Radeon 4850
corsair HX520

Motherboard has always been a bit annoying, but now its getting worse and has started causing crashes so i would like a new one. And i'm considering upgrading the CPU too (I could use the CPU elsewhere).

I can't afford to change the memory, so i have to stick with DDR2.

And its going to be used for gaming, and i tend to do moderate overclocks (eg I had the e4300 at 2.7GHz)

So what's currently the best value 775 motherboard.
And whats the best value CPU/mobo (intel or AMD) combo that's DDR2 compatible?

I don't want to spend more than £150, but the less the better.

cmndr_andi · 3 Jul 2010 at 12:44

Hi there, do you know the full model name of the motherboard and how long has it been since you bought it? Most new Gigabyte motherboards come with 3 years warranty- so if it is within this period and the board is faulty you should be able to get a free replacement.

Also, you may want to check the RAM is OK. Is it set to the correct speed, timings and voltage in the BIOS? It would also be a good idea try each stick of RAM on its own and see if one of the sticks has issues (run Memtest on each stick).

As for upgrading the CPU and mobo - if you are going to do both I would strongly suggest going for an AMD system instead, you will get far more performance for your money. This motherboard is a nice one and this CPU is great.

pastymuncher · 3 Jul 2010 at 12:46

If you are going to replace the mobo and cpu then take the opportunity to change sockets and go with a AMD rig. No point building a new 775 pc at this late stage in it's life. A AM2+ based rig can still use a AM3 cpu and will use your current DDR2. I am sure someone can spec you.

Beaten to it again. There were no post's when i strated typing.

robinbredin · 3 Jul 2010 at 18:01

There ia a good Quad AMD HERE. Cheaper than the Duel Core AMD.

Redmint · 3 Jul 2010 at 18:05

cmndr_andi said:
As for upgrading the CPU and mobo - if you are going to do both I would strongly suggest going for an AMD system instead, you will get far more performance for your money. This motherboard is a nice one and this CPU is great.

Strongly agree with the above.

sswats · 4 Jul 2010 at 08:51

So choice is between Phenom II X2 555 and Athlon II X4 635/
which ones faster for games at stock, and which one is faster at moderate overclocked speeds.

Also can you recommend a budget cooler