CPU for new build

[BigGuy]

Hi every one. I am putting together a hardware list for my new PC and can't decide on whether to buy an i5 2500k or an i7 2600k. I know the i7 is a $100 more than the i5 and I was wondering if it is worth it. I would appreciate any help I can get!

Thank you, BigGuy

[A Guy]

If money is no object () then yes, the i7. If you do a lot of video processing/encoding, or other tasks that will benefit greatly by having Hyperthreading, the i7. Otherwise, the i5 is such a great CPU that you will never be sorry you got it. That extra $100 towards a SSD and you will be very satisfied. If you are planning for an off in the future build, pencil in the CPU and MB as the next generation is on it's way. Of course, that could mean lower prices on todays tech, that would serve you well for years to come. A Guy

[Raymond]

Compare the scores below.
http://cpubenchmark.net/cpu.php?cpu=Intel+Core+i5-2500K+%40+3.30GHz
http://cpubenchmark.net/cpu.php?cpu=Intel+Core+i7-2600K+%40+3.40GHz

The i7 2600K clearly has much better performance than the i5 2500K.

[ding-dong]

i go for the i7 in my opinion

[Bearcat]

Hi BigGuy. I have been very happy with the performance of my i5 2500k. As A Guy suggested, I put the $100 difference in cost toward an SSD and I don't have any regrets about doing that. Since you are still saving up for your new build, I would suggest you wait and see what the prices are like after the next of generation of Intel chips become available. That way you can choose which one will give you the most bang for your buck.

[hal9000]

Well, to answer your original question 'is it worth the extra $100?', I went to Anandtech and looked at the performance of the two, then took the average. Surprisingly, the difference across the board is only ~12% in favor of the 2600k. Today's prices in the UK have the 2600k 44% more expensive than the 2500k. So you would get on average ~12% more speed for 44% more money, not great value for the extra money if it's put that way.

Having said that, I am still looking at the 2600k/2700k myself because it's generally best to get the fastest you can afford at the time if you don't upgrade that often (every 2 or 3 years +). In theory, the performance gap should grow a bit more in the coming months as more software takes advantage of the 2600k's 8 threads.

As others have said, if the extra $100 is being diverted from other important area's of your build, perhaps the 2500k and a good cooler for overclocking may be the way to go. If the money doesn't impact other things and you want the best available right now, the 2600k is worth serious thought.

[JayCub]

While your waiting to purchase BigGuy take a look at users reviews and what you want to use your computer for, the guys here have given allot for you to think about and opinions will always vary, for me i read different opinions and review, and weighed up my options.
i have your Grandpa to thank for allot of research i did.

i would recommend patience as finding what works best for you is all part of the enjoyment of building a pc, budget is also important and like your Uncle Bear suggests, find out more about the release of Ivy bridge, and see how the prices are around that time.

Looking forward to your build BigGuy and your lucky to have your Uncle Bear to help guide you and discuss your options.

[BigGuy]

I want to say "Thank You Very Much" to everyone for your help! Your replies are a big help!

BigGuy

[Bearcat]

All this talk about CPU's and hardware is giving me a really bad itchto build another computer! What do you think guys, would anyone be interested if I start building new PCs and giving them away on the Forum!!!

[A Guy]

Sure, if you give me one, I will tell you how to build a great one!

A Guy