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First thing to remember is this:
Intel i5’s are not high-end gaming systems, they are budget CPUs only
If you can afford a little extra (I said little, keep that in mind) money go for an i7 based CPU if you plan on going Intel.
What is the biggest difference between i5’s and i7’s Intel processors:
- L3 Cache
Simpler terms:
“Level 3 or L3 cache is specialized memory that works hand-in-hand with L1 and L2 cache to improve computer performance. L1, L2 and L3 cache are computer processing unit (CPU) caches, verses other types of caches in the system such as hard disk cache. CPU cache caters to the needs of the microprocessor by anticipating data requests so that processing instructions are provided without delay. CPU cache is faster than random access memory (RAM), and is designed to prevent bottlenecks in performance. source: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-l3-cache.htm”So – you want more L3 Cache for gaming, a lot more, the most you can afford. i5’s will not give you this, they’re not meant to be high-end systems as they are affordable CPUs for your day-to-day simple games and tasks. No they are not bad CPUs, but they are not high-end CPUs either.
People will argue this until they are blue in the face stating “Well…My system runs great and my games are smooth!” Maybe so, but their defenition of “great” and “smooth” are completely different than mine, or yours — so ignore the naysayer’s and you’ll be fine. L3 Cache is a huge benefit when doing high-end calculations (gaming being one) giving the processor a larger buffer, so to speak, to handle the instructions being pumped in. A typical i5 will have much lower L3 Cache where the i7 will give you more, usually a lot more.
i3/i5 – your standard business PC for day-to-day tasks
i7+ – your high-end gaming / media creationSolarNova runs an i7 3930, great CPU, it is also a 6-Core CPU which may be overkill but hey, if you have the extra cash do it. (We all know games don’t take full advantage of 6-Cores, that’s not the point of going for a 6-Core CPU). I run the 3920 and it’s a great CPU, it’s just below SolarNova’s CPU. HOWEVER: These are the 2011 Sockets, they are NOT cheap by any means. 2011 Sockets are Extreme-High-End systems. Motherboards for 2011 sockets typically run $100 – $150 more just for the motherboard. The memory for 2011 sockets also cost more because 2011 is a Quad-Channel memory controller on the CPU. Only serious hardcore gamers would go for 2011 socket systems (again, these are not cheap)
If you have the cash, then go for a 2011 setup, otherwise if you’re looking for a budget system you can still build an i7 system that is outstanding. (if you enjoy games: avoid i5 CPUs — and with the cost difference, go for the extra L3 Cache)
If you want any of us to spec out a system, there’s plenty here to help, but you will run into arguments about what you should buy. I’m only going to provide advice of the areas you may want to consider. CPUs, Motherboards, Memory and Video cards are my expertise (I even build $20,000 servers). I know my hardware, and avoid fighting with people that want to argue knowledge rather than providing simple logical assistance
Like SolarNova said: “Give us a realistic budget and we can help”
