New Computer: AMD or Intel?

[saikit]

I'm planning to build a new computer soon. The specification that I have trouble

deciding on is the CPU and the motherboard. The cost of these two set up are very close. And I do not want to spend more on higher end systems.

Should I get an Intel or an AMD machine?

Here are the CPU and Motherboard that I picked out:

1) Intel E6750
Gigabyte P35 DS3L or DS3R

2) AMD X2 6000+ (I wanted to get the 5000+ Black Edition before)
M2N32 SLi Deluxe

a) Speed
b) Stability
c) Power Consumption
d) Noise
e) Overclock

The reason for putting power consumption in my top 3 priority is because I have an Antec Neo HE 430 watt PSU (came with the Antec P150) that I want to use. I do not want to go over my budget and get a new PSU.

To be honest, I do not know if 430 Watts is enough for my new computer. Here are

the rest of the parts (They have be bought already except for video card):

- 2 x OCZ 1GB PC2 800GHZ
- WD 250 16MB buffer SATA
- BFG 8800 GT (will be buying)

Comments and suggestions are appreciated.

 

[DSF]

If you look at benchmarks of CPU-intensive games like Supreme Commander, the E6750 is a significantly better performer.

One thing I would say though, is that you should buy a P35 chipset motherboard instead of a 965 chipset. Gigabyte's equivalent P35 model to the one you chose is the GA-P35-DS3L. It can usually be found for under $100, and I believe zipzoomfly has a sale on it right now. The Core2Duo will also, as far as I know, be a better overclocker.

Edit: A new 430W PSU from a reputable manufacturer should run that setup fine. If memory serves, the NeoHE is one of Antec's "good" lines.

 

[cozumel]

Agree with everything as above. The P35 will also take the 45nm CPUs if you wanted to upgrade.

On the PSU front if you were looking to overclock then you would need 500W minimum. I would suggest getting a new PSU anyhow due to the ageing process of PSUs and reduced efficiency/output. The specs on the 8800GT state 450W minimum. If you wanted to offset the extra expense of a P35 & PSU then I would suggest taking a look at the E2180 as an option. It really offers good bang for buck as they say and will likely overclock to 3.0+. The Antec Earthwatts 500W PSU is well built, offers good stable performance and is excellent value.

 

[amdfansftw]

i've heard good things about that psu too. the intel is going to use less power from what i understand about intel vs. amd. i would go for intel if it's between those two processors. if your going more for budget then amd but not if the price isn't that much of a factor.

 

[cozumel]

But for gaming it has to be an Intel as new build imo.

 

[saikit]

DSF,

What is the benefit of P35 chipset over 965?

 

[Denithor]

The e6750 at stock speed is faster than any dual core AMD chip on the market. Overclocking simply increases the lead and therefore the value for the money.

And yes, go for a P35 chipset motherboard instead of the older 965P, the P35 boards overclock higher with better stability and also offer native support for the next generation of chips, the 45nm Penryn series (due to be released in Q1/2008).

Recommended boards:
Abit IP35-E or Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3L ($100) Basic, high quality boards, no raid/firewire
Abit IP35 or Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3R or DS3P ($130-150) Same quality, raid/firewire added
Abit IP35 Pro or Gigabyte GA-P35-DS4 ($150-180) Improved cooling, raid/firewire, 2 x16 PCI-E slots

Your 430W Antec should be enough to run this system with no problems.

One caution: you may have issues with that OCZ memory. Before installing in the case I recommend you mount the cpu on the motherboard, add one stick of the memory in the first slot, put in your video card, hook up your power supply, and boot the board by shorting the Power Switch header on the motherboard (use a CD-ROM or HDD jumper to do this). Once it comes up, go into the BIOS and set the memory voltage to 2.0V, save and exit. Add the remaining RAM sticks and boot again. If it comes up ok you're good, save, exit, and shut it down and transfer into the case.

 

[JackMDS]

I build computers in order to do something Functional with them.

a) Speed
b) Stability
c) Power Consumption
d) Noise
e) Overclock

Are computer assists but Not its functional purpose.

I first define what I need the computer for.

Internet, audio, Gaming, Video, Office routine, server?

Then I choose the best Cost effective computer that can perform the cluster of my needs.

That said it is a different story if one needs to build a computer for Cool social purposes.

 

[saikit]

Jack,

This computer is going to be a Home computer.

The main functions of this computer will be Internet, Gaming, Photoshop and Video.

 

[saikit]

Looks like everybody in this forum likes Intel.

 

[amdfansftw]

well i like amd just fine but it's not about what i like it's about what's better for your needs.

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: amdfansftw
well i like amd just fine but it's not about what i like it's about what's better for your needs.

Yeah at the moment they like Intel.

Currently Intel offers better value for the $$.

Taking into consideration Internet, Gaming, Photoshop and Video.

You would be better off with one of the P35 line as describe by Denithor above.

The High price Motherboard provide capacities that are not an asset for many people unless they are really needed.

So a sub $100 motherboard might do well too.

These threads might be of value.

http://forums.anandtech.com/me...=2057083&enterthread=y

http://forums.anandtech.com/me...=2067695&enterthread=y

http://forums.anandtech.com/me...=2063989&enterthread=y

 

[j0j081]

I made a similar decision earlier this week but between the 6400+ BE and e6750. The more I read the less and less sense the AMD build made so I would save yourself the trouble and go Intel this time. I also got the GB DS3L.