The benefits of DDR2-800 and shortcomings of DDR3?

[The Wildcard]

Well I've been out of touch with computers for a while and wanted to jump back in before I bought a new computer. So of course I went to Anandtech to get caught up, searched and read alot of posts by N7 (thanks!) and among others, and finally read the FAQ (thanks Blue Acolyte).

I am interested in building a stock, Intel 9300 Quad core system. Since it's stock, I plan on just sticking to the 333 mhz FSB. I only have one question to confirm.

1)Would DDR2-800 be better than DDR3-1333 for my case because Intel chipsets can't take full advantage of DDR3 bandwith yet? Plus DDR2 is also cheaper. Is this the prevailing judgement?

 

[BTRY B 529th FA BN]

DDR2

 

[DSF]

Yeah you'll be fine with DDR2.

 

[n7]

DDR3 is certainly better for higher end overclocked setups, but unless you've got a lot of $$$ to burn, i can't recommend it right now.

Obviously, when Nehalem platforms arrive, it'll be DDR3 time, but until then or until prices drop drastically, it's not a great value.

 

[The Wildcard]

Thanks for the responses guys.

But specifically regarding voltages and stability, is there any difference with running DDR2 800 with a 6:5 divider versus DDR3 1333 with a 2:1 divider (w/ 333 mhz FSB)?

 

[n7]

You'd likely have to benchmark to see any difference...

As long as voltages/timings are set correctly, either config should be completely stable.

 

[The Wildcard]

Thanks for the info n7