more RAM or faster CPU

Curio · 10 Feb 2007 at 01:10

Will be upgrading (well, almost a complete new build) in a couple of weeks and I'm on a very strict budget. I can either get a Conroe and 1GB RAM, or an X2 3600 or X2 3800 and 2GB RAM.

Of course, I could always go for the 1GB and add another later when I can afford it. But all things being equal, which would you go for - more RAM or faster CPU? Machine will be used mainly for gaming at 1280x1024 res.

Does 2GB RAM really make that much difference? I've not noticed any serious disk thrashing with 1GB in any recent games. I really don't want to have to splash on that extra GB if it doesn't make BIG difference.

Thanks

mattyj1085 · 10 Feb 2007 at 01:18

id go conroe miles faster then a64 and easy to overclock but need to save up for that extra gig of ram games like bf2 run a lot better with 2gigs might aswell go conroe though and then save up for an extra gig otherwise youre just going to be wanting to upgrade again in no time.

mattpj · 10 Feb 2007 at 01:21

You need to have both in time, but the A64 is going to hold you back a lot more in the future, where as the C2D overclocked just won't. Also if your buying the mobo to go with thats going to be compatible for a long time.

stinka · 10 Feb 2007 at 01:54

dont even think about spending money on amd atm, its got to be c2d. and i personaly think if your serious about gaming ya'll need 2g of ram mate

stinka

Curio · 10 Feb 2007 at 02:12

stinka said:
dont even think about spending money on amd atm, its got to be c2d. and i personaly think if your serious about gaming ya'll need 2g of ram mate

stinka

I dunno, I've played Oblivion, FEAR, COD2, HL2 and Quake4 with 1GB RAM and never once do I remember my HD thrashing and wishing I had 2GB :confused:

The only game you ever hear of really needing 2GB is BF2 and I don't even play that. Makes me think I can hold off for a while yet.