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Cheap CPU - Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD AM2 processor

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8 Feb 2006
Posts
113
Should i be looking at a AMD AM2 processor or a Intel Core 2 Duo. Lookin to spend around £50 on the cpu. The mother boards for the intels seem to be a lot more expensive aswell?

Does the Intel hold an advantage over the AMD? If so what?
 
The main question is... Are you going to be overclocking?
Most will say Intel but if you're sticking at a low budget and not doing any overclocking then I'd say go for the AMD.
 
As mentioned if you plan on overclocking then the Intels are the much better option, i mean most C2D's even the ones priced £50 and under will reach at least 3GHz if not more.

However if you really dont want to overclock then get the best AMD CPU you can with your budget.
 
I'd just get an X2 3800, and a cheap nForce 570 based mobo and try for a decent clock. Recent 3800 steppings are alright for 2.8ghz > 3ghz on reasonable air cooling, like an arctic freezer or similar. Could probably get CPU, Mobo and cooler for about £100.

Obviously there is the intel road aswell, pick up an E2140/2160 and try and find a cheap reasonable clocking motherboard.
I'm not clued up on any Intel motherboards but like you say it does seem that you'd have to part with a bit more cash. I'd say maybe up it to £140 and you'dbe alright, especially with some budget C2D clockers guidance from here. :)

If overclocking is something you wouldn't mind doing then it's definately worth it, especially with the entry level chips which can offer great performance for not a lot of money.
 
Intel Core 2 Duo E2140 "LGA775 Conroe" 1.60GHz (800FSB) - Retail £39.99
(£46.99) £39.99
(£46.99)
Abit IP35-E (Socket 775) PCI-Express DDR2 Motherboard £59.99
(£70.49) £59.99
(£70.49)
Sub Total : £99.98
Shipping cost assumes delivery to UK Mainland with:
City Link Parcel Next Day (Delivered Mon-Fri)
(This can be changed during checkout) Shipping : £8.25
VAT is being charged at 17.5% VAT : £18.94
Total : £127.17


overclock that chip to 3ghz and poop all over anything by AMD.

Fact
 
Last edited:
Emlyn_Dewar said:
I'd just get an X2 3800, and a cheap nForce 570 based mobo and try for a decent clock. Recent 3800 steppings are alright for 2.8ghz > 3ghz on reasonable air cooling, like an arctic freezer or similar. Could probably get CPU, Mobo and cooler for about £100.

My spec would be considerably faster and allow for a nice overclock.

The mobo is the latest tech and will support up and coming cpu's.


Your spec is dead tech
 
easyrider said:
Intel Core 2 Duo E2140 "LGA775 Conroe" 1.60GHz (800FSB) - Retail £39.99
(£46.99) £39.99
(£46.99)
Abit IP35-E (Socket 775) PCI-Express DDR2 Motherboard £59.99
(£70.49) £59.99
(£70.49)
Sub Total : £99.98
Shipping cost assumes delivery to UK Mainland with:
City Link Parcel Next Day (Delivered Mon-Fri)
(This can be changed during checkout) Shipping : £8.25
VAT is being charged at 17.5% VAT : £18.94
Total : £127.17


overclock that chipto 3ghz and poop all over anything by AMD.

Fact


Thanks! Not a massive differnce in price compared to an AMD setup with that Mobo.

Would i need a fan etc to get a decent overclock?
 
Last edited:
simon_xazza said:
Thanks! Missed that Mobo on the site, howcome its in the "other chipset" category? Not a massive differnce in price compared to an AMD setup with that Mobo.


Its a P35 mobo that clocks nicely and doesnt break the bank.

If overclocking there is just no point in going AMD avoid this advice.

Its incorrect.

If overclocking right now get a C2D ;)

Artic Freezer would be fine for 3ghz
 
easyrider said:
My spec would be considerably faster and allow for a nice overclock.

The mobo is the latest tech and will support up and coming cpu's.


Your spec is dead tech

But am2 supports the k10. But if overclocking i would go for Intel.
 
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