On business applications, Intel chips are generally faster than the AMD counterparts. For gaming it is kind of a mixed bag. At lower resolutions the AMD chips are a little better than the Intel chips. But as you increase the resolution, the AMD chips quickly fall behind. If you are into modding, the Intel chips overclock much higher than the AMD. With all that, you have to take into account that Intel chips are more expensive.
Not that into modding to be honest. I just want a good machine that will last me a few years before its completely obsolete.
Can you provide some more information? Will you be building the machine yourself? What do you plan on doing with the machine? Typical usage (office, web browsing), gaming, photo editing, video editing Do you want to upgrade it regularly, or do you plan to run it into the ground before building/buying a new one? Do you want a laptop or a desktop? Do you like running lots of applications at the same time? Are you concerned about your power bill?
Well, I dont know man. I just do mostly web browsing. I'm gonna get a desktop. I'm gonna have to install a dvd burner. I dont guess I run alot of applications at the same time. Usually just have multiple tabs on Firefox. My power bill usually isnt that bad so, thats cool. Thanks everybody
It sounds like you're not really stressing the machine or have any desire to really mess with the hardware, so I would just set a budget and look for the best system that fits your budget. it's hard to compare processors now adays because it's not directly related to their clock frequency, so use this link AnandTech: The Phenom II X4 810 & X3 720: AMD Gets DDR3 But Doesn't Need It to compare each processor. Get 2 GB of RAM minimum, but the more the merrier. LMK if you have any more questions! Also, when in doubt just get an Intel chip, can't go wrong.
Alot of great info provided by Scot_W, and HomeChicken, now day chip speeds mean nothing, unless you are a harcored gamer and by the sound of it you are not, they both are good companies, one of the big problems that I found with intel...not sure if others have mentioned this, is that they run way hotter than AMD and for that big reason is why I usually go with AMD for Home theater PCs, etc,but both processors are solid.
I contemplated building one with a Intel i7 920. Seems like a Intel build is a cpl hundred more than an AMD build.
