Few Questions on Intel Processors...

[GenStryker]

I'm kind of confused about a couple things regarding Intel's current processors. I've read the CPU Buyer's Guide and saw a reference to Prescott "E" (SSE3 + 1Mb L2) being the best pick among Intel's processors for gaming. However, in "Hardcore Gamer" section I saw a different reference - Northwood "C", which has no SSE3 instruction and a 512Kb L2 cache.

My point is - Which one is better for gaming then? Considering we pick two different processors at same rated speed - 3.2Ghz for example - which one (Precott "E" or Northwood "C") would perform better in a game and which one is the best option for further overclocking? Thanks in advance.

 

[Spitfire_x86]

Northwood "C" usually performs better in games compared to Prescott (Doom 3 is an exception). SSE3 has no impact on gaming performance and due to Prescott's architectural changes , it needs more L2 cache to maintain competitive performance level with Northwood "C".

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[wschuerm]

they are more or less on par. Prescoot will overclock further normally because it was designed for that. (but there are never guarantees)

ASUS P4P800S-X
P IV 2,4 @ nothing caus this board doesn't OC for [-peep-]
2x512MB Corsair pc4000
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Sapphire Radeon 9800pro 128mb
Watercooled

 

[GenStryker]

So then... if the machine's main purpose is for gaming, then should I stick with the Northwood core? Also, is it too hard to succesfully overclock a 3.2Ghz to a little higher... say... 3.4Ghz with stock cooling?

 

[endyen]

If gaming is your main use, you should go with Amd. The A64s are better now, will be more better when Win64 is released, and will offer more in the future.