Building new system for first time in years...

[AMDPwred]

After years with a laptop and being out of the hardware spot, I'm looking to build another desktop computer. I'd generally just go AMD since I've always used those in built machines. However, I figured I'd look at both processors. When I was involved, the real debate was over clock speed. Now these chips have major differences in FSB speed, L2 cache size, 64 bit support, and clock speed. Can anyone help me compare the higher end offerings from these two companies? For reference, I mostly use my machine for daily Internet activities but I'm also a full time software engineer. I don't need the greatest graphics but I need the machine to be super quick when having many tasks going on at once.

 

[theMan]

if you need it to be quick at multitasking, you want an amd athlon 64 X2 dual core processor for sure. what is your budget. are you going to be overclocking?

 

[AMDPwred]

No overclocking and I haven't really set a budget. I was thinking something like:

24" Dell Display
2GB RAM
10k RPM C drive (SATA)
300GB D drive (SATA)

The sad part is I have to use it wirelessly. My router and modem are downstairs because of the PS2.

 

[theMan]

with those parts, i recommend an X2 4400+ if you dont overclock.

 

[AMDPwred]

That's a lot of cash for a CPU. Even though it's probably the most important factor in my "quick" requirement.

 

[Markfw]

There is no comparison. If you can;t get the 4400 X2, get the 4200 X2 or the 3800 X2. They will all do well.

 

[Hacp]

Since no Ocing, 4200+. I would also reccomend a Raptor, or SCSI drive for the quickness feel. FInally, a nice 6600GT or x700 pro to round it out.