Proccessor decision for a computing n00b

[kevinthekrazy]

I have a downright terrible computer right now.

Acer
820 Intel Pentium D processor
ATI radeon xpress 200 graphics
1 GB DDR2 memory
250GB SATA hard disk

I worked this summer (I'm 14) and now want to spend around $1000 for a new, long lasting computer system. here is what I'm looking at http://configure.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=ca&CS=cadhs1&l=en&OC=D42023V_F_1E
and I want it the way you would see it.

What I cant decide on is the proccessor. I do microsoft word, excel, and powerpoint 2007 for school. I run programs like iTunes and quicktime for video, and I often use nit torrents and bit comet to get free movies (or 18A ones I couldnt buy). I also want to be able to run crysis, bioshock, world in conflict, etc. on high setting (Nvidia GeForce 9800GT), and I dont particular care if the better processor will make some quirky, unoticable difference in gameplay.

So, what should I get as a processor? Intel Q6600, E8400, or the Q9450 for $200 more

There is something you have to remember, though. If I'm spending 100 on a computer setup, getting either of the two former proccessors would mean I could spend another $150 on other upgrades (seeing the computer is on for 850 - 900)

What would you reccomend. remember, I'm a n00b, so no advanced siht please. Put it in words I'd understand. and no, I dont really want to overclock

 

[huron]

Why not build one yourself. You can certainly get some pretty nice parts for that price and be very satisfied with you purchase.

I'd say the Q6600 or the E8400. You won't be able to run Crysis on High with that graphics card.

Let us know if you plan to build.

 

[Proximon]

We usually recommend building your own around here, but if that's not possible for you, I would say go with the Q6600. It will last you longer.

 

[huron]

I'll agree with Proximon - the Quad will be good for you for awhile. The E8400 would be better for more "pure gaming."

We do recommend building here. If you are interested, we can probably get you a good system for the $1000 you have to spend.

 

[aevm]

Yuck, you're 14 and downloading adult movies. At least don't talk about it in forums

+1 for the Q6600 - it has 4 cores, while the E8400 has only 2. If a game, say Crysis, uses only 2 cores, then the E8400 is theoretically better because its cores run a bit faster. But, if you also have processes downloading naughty stuff or compressing things or whatever in the background, then the Q6600 will actually play the game better because cores 3 and 4 can take care of the additional tasks while cores 1 and 2 give their complete attention to the game.

I don't like the choices of video card you get on that Dell site. HD 3870, 8800GT and 9800GT were pretty good in their day, but now you can get a HD 4850 that beats them for $150 or so. If you don't want to build your PC yourself, at least call Dell and see if they offer any other options.

Make sure the Vista you get is a 64-bit version. It's not clear on the site. I guess you have to call for that anyway.