I7 930 vs Xeon W3530?

[Zinosys]

Alright. I know that this question has been asked numerous times, but it's a new day, and we have new processors.

So, here is my question:

Which is better for overclocking: i7 930 or Xeon W3530.

The W3530 is going to be released on March 16.

I was looking at the white papers:

i7: http://ark.intel.com/Product.aspx?id=41447

Xeon: http://ark.intel.com/Product.aspx?id=41313

and noticed three "major" differences: The VID Voltage range (VID?) of the i7 goes up to 1.375V, and the Xeon to 1.225V.

We all know that a higher recommended voltage headroom = better overclocking!

The next difference is ECC (which doesn't matter to me in the slightest.)

And the Xeon also supports "Dynamic Load Balancing". Anyone know what this is?

It's also a known fact that Xeons are binned higher than i7s, so buying a Xeon W3530 (compared to a i7 930) is actually more like an i7 960.

It overclocks better, tolerates heat better, and probably lasts longer.

My board is (going to be) a GA-X58A-UD3R. That's established. Are there any known compatibility issues with Xeons and this board?

Sorry, I'm probably asking too much, but any input will be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Zinosys]

*Bump*. 43 hits and still no reply? Come on, guys.

 

[saaiello]

You basically pointed out the differences pretty good you seem to know. But i will give you my 2 cents. Like you already found out they are basically identical processors except the ECC and the VID. With that does it justify spend that extra heap of cash on it hell no need for a xeon unless you are running a server and need the ECC for gaming purposes the I7 would be the choice to go with and spend that extra money on a HD5970 or the new nivida card comeing out soon. Also i dont think the xeon will really have any better overclock then the I7.

 

[Zinosys]

^^Thank you SAAIELLO.

Well, the price difference is about $12, so that's the main reason I'm asking...

 

[saaiello]

Really only 12 buxs i would still go with the I7 more tried and true you know what i mean.