Q6600 or Q8300?

[OzZie]

Hi,

Looking to build a new PC in the next few weeks for around no more than £550.

At the moment, i'm running an X2 3800+ with 2gb DDR and an x1950 Pro 512mb.

The Q6600 has twice the cache, and is known to overclock well with the G0 variety. However, it is now discontinued and also 65nm process, which means extra heat output over 45nm. On the other hand, the Q8300 is a new product with lower power/heat output, and thus has a probable chance of overclocking well. However, it has half the L2 which is quite a significant drop?

Can't afford anything higher than these two really though.

Main uses will be for overclocking for music production and audio and video encoding, as well as gaming.

Thanks.

 

[artax]

Strangely enough I'm in exactly the same boat myself (same CPU). Did you come to any conclusions?

Dave

 

[95thrifles]

Though it doesnt answer your question, have you thought of sticking with AMD, for a budget and your needs the X3's are well suited

 

[McstylisT]

Hi ,

Not personally used the Q8300 series so could not fairly comment on that CPU's performance. But I've not heard anything great either.

I have used the Q6600 though. Very good CPU. Do not be fooled. When coupled with a quality heat sink and fan it will sit at 3ghz all day long. Giving you very good power when needed.

I personally upgraded to a Q9550 since then. It runs @ 3.6ghz and is very powerful for everyday use. But If i would have know the exact differences between them I would have probably stuck with the Q6600 @ 3ghz for a while and saved for an I7. But that was over a year ago now so history.

Q6600 might be old , 65nm tech but it still does a job.

McT