Is AMD Comparable to Intel Right Now?

**Drachmas** · 03-04-08, 01:42 PM

Hi everyone. I haven't played TF2 in a while, mostly because it's killing my computer. I've been looking into a completely new build, but I'm having trouble finding the current wave of AMD processors. I don't know much about them, but I do remember that dual and quad cores are the way to go. Does AMD have a quad-core processor right now? I'd like to stay loyal to AMD and ATI, but I'd rather have something that's powerful enough to last for a few years. Thanks in advance!

**Mcstrange** · 03-04-08, 01:50 PM

AMD is lacking behind Intel currently. Intels dual core and quad core procs outperform the AMD offerings.

But you can buy an AMD system with say a AMD X2 6000 chip that will last you for a couple years if you pair it with a quality GPU. Most of us run into a GPU limit well before we run into a CPU bottleneck.

If you really want the quad core, the AMD chips are called phenom and can be found by searching for chips to fit the AM2+ Socket on newegg.

**Hocus Pocus** · 03-04-08, 01:58 PM

Originally Posted by Mcstrange

AMD is lacking behind Intel currently. Intels dual core and quad core procs outperform the AMD offerings.

But you can buy an AMD system with say a AMD X2 6000 chip that will last you for a couple years if you pair it with a quality GPU. Most of us run into a GPU limit well before we run into a CPU bottleneck.

If you really want the quad core, the AMD chips are called phenom and can be found by searching for chips to fit the AM2+ Socket on newegg.

and the phenom chip outruns intels c2d, correct?

but doesnt come close to intels quads

**Drachmas** · 03-04-08, 02:07 PM

I don't really keep up with new technology. I only look into building when I need one for personal use. Do you have any suggestions for a quality GPU that would match well with an AMD X2 6000?

Or should I just go with Intel for my new build?

**sfg-Groove** · 03-04-08, 02:14 PM

and the phenom chip outruns intels c2d, correct?

but doesnt come close to intels quads

They were comparing Phenom Quad core against Intel's dual core .. and the amd just barely squeaked by... The cheapest Intel Quad Q6600 puts the Phenom in its place...

Now take the Intel dual core and give it a mild 500mhz over clock and you are murdering the Phenom chip.

Go with an Intel setup for your new build... Go with either the Q6600 cpu or the E8400.
If you like ATI flavor then grab a 3870 and you will be happy.

**Mcstrange** · 03-04-08, 02:17 PM

I would recommend the 8800gt or the ati 3870.

I would at this time recommend Intel and Nvidia to most users, but you could easily choose the AMD and ATI equivalents and not be sacrificing much.

What would you like to spend?

Here are some excellent starting systems:
http://techreport.com/articles.x/14225

**Drachmas** · 03-04-08, 02:22 PM

The systems from that link look great to me, especially the 'Sweet Spot'. I was hoping to keep it around $1200, including a new monitor. I'll probably need a new Windows XP disc, too. But that's what credit cards are for, right?

**Mcstrange** · 03-04-08, 02:28 PM

Look at the grand experiment one, its pretty much the same power for 300 dollars less due to having a cheaper case, power supply and a couple other things. The powers pretty much the same

That gets you an XP disk or gives you a 200 dollar head start on your new monitor.

**Drachmas** · 03-04-08, 02:41 PM

I'd like to build something that will last for a few years. Would the 'Experiment' have the same longevity as the 'Sweet Spot'? I appreciate the help, by the way.

**sfg-Groove** · 03-04-08, 02:45 PM

No.. the sweet spot rig is alot better than the grand experiment

Better motherboard
Way better power supply ... pc power and cooling make THE best power supplys you can get .

That rig would last you a few years no problem.