Core2Duo vs i3 vs Phenom

[DannyW]

Hi guys Im after upgrading my main pc,

currenty I have a C2D e6750 @ 2.8 ghz, Would an i3 530 @ 2.9 ghz be a nice little upgrade?

I dont play pc games, just use pc for 1080p stuff and bluray ect basically a media centre

Can anyone spec me a cpu faster then i already have? what are the phenom x4 or x6's like?

 

[raikesi]

i'd wait for the release of sandy bridge - will be much fasted whilst costing about the same and its only 4ish months away

 

[Frozennova]

Not a big upgrade for you usage, I'd suggest grabbing a decent cooler and overclocking.

 

[craptakular]

Waste of money, spend money up the pub instead.

 

[raikesi]

what other hardware are you using??

either consider doing this:

Not a big upgrade for you usage, I'd suggest grabbing a decent cooler and overclocking.

or grabbing a second hand q6600 if you really want more power

 

[Trunks9486]

Your CPU is great for what you do. Overclock it if you need more performance. That chip was kwnown ti hot 3.6GHz+ on a capable mobo

 

[DannyW]

Thanks guys just saved me about £300

Yeh think I will get a decent cooler and wind it up a bit

 

[JPNUFC]

Just oc the current CPU and wait as advised, to go for the i3 right now with the system you have would mean spending on a new mobo ram etc only for you to want to upgrade again when the new tech is available.

 

[DannyW]

Hi guys ive overclocked it to 3.0 ghz and upped the volts from 3.5 to 3.7, just running prime95 now seems ok but its at 62*C and slowley rising, can anyone spec me decent a cooler?

 

[phil675]

I've had one of these http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=HS-035-AR on my E2200 going at 3.0-3.2Ghz depending on the weather for about 2 years and it does a fine job.

 

[DannyW]

thanks, are these quieter then the stock cooling?

 

[phil675]

I never used the stock cooler , but is barely audible when idle and unobtrusive when going full pelt.

 

[Trunks9486]

I would suggest getting something a bit more beefy. If you ever upgrade the cooler is something that is reusable (you might need to get a cheap bracket though).

Prolimatech/thermalright/corsair/noctua have some good coolers. They are a bit on the expensive side right now but i am a fun of good coolers. Zalmans are decent too.