Upgradeitis

Kirth Gersen · 11 Sep 2011 at 16:31

Its that time again, when I just need to upgrade, for no really good reason, as my current E8500 is still doing sterling work. That said, I would love the applications/games to load faster - so an SSD is the key target.

I could just go for the SSD, but I fancy it would be even better paired with a SATA 3 capable mobo, games would be zippier with an i5 and requisite RAM. A lot of money for a bit more zip...

Anyway, I no longer overclock - SACRILEGE I know. So I am looking for functional, but robust pieces of kit which are good value.

Here is what I have in mind. Critques please. Note - I want to stay Intel, so no AMD solutions.

Jony27 · 11 Sep 2011 at 16:40

get the K version of the CPU
and change the memory to the Corsair XMS3 1600MHz on offer.

IvanDobskey · 11 Sep 2011 at 16:43

Surely no point in the K version? He's said he's not overclocking?

Jony27 · 11 Sep 2011 at 16:44

IvanDobskey said:
Surely no point in the K version? He's said he's not overclocking?

then get a 2400 and a H67 board, i suggested the K version as the price of the 2500 is so close to it, and he opted for a P67 board.

Kirth Gersen · 11 Sep 2011 at 16:55

The H67 Boards aren't necessarily cheaper. However, you have a point, £6 more gives me the option should I wish to return to the dark arts.

Another question, are the stock coolers on the i5s quiet?

fowler002 · 11 Sep 2011 at 17:01

how much are you looking to spend?

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-368-GI&groupid=701&catid=5&subcat=1990 £15 more and has srt should you wish to make use of it, also has x8/x8 xfire or if yo're prepare to stretch for futureproofing http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-054-AK&groupid=701&catid=5&subcat=1990 can then use the tuniq tower on the asrock as it allows you to use 775 coolers(if the tuniq tower doesn't have 1156 compatibility).

5770 for gaming? or are you waiting for the new cards?

Kirth Gersen · 11 Sep 2011 at 17:15

Don't want to spend too much. No need for Xfire etc. The 5770 is great for my gaming needs - Rise of Flight, F1 2010, Hearts of Iron 3. Not your hardcore stuff.

I've read that TTs don't work so well on the newer quads, so will be looking for a replacement. Stock will do if quiet enough.

fowler002 · 11 Sep 2011 at 17:43

think the tt will be better than stock cooler by all fairness, maybe this if you're not looking to join the 5ghz club as it can handle 4.5ghz from what I've read.

Kirth Gersen · 11 Sep 2011 at 18:40

fowler002 said:
think the tt will be better than stock cooler by all fairness, maybe this if you're not looking to join the 5ghz club as it can handle 4.5ghz from what I've read.

That's probably on the lines of what I need.