Cheap CPU's
One of the first decisions you'll have to make when buying parts for your new cheap computer is which CPU to buy. Since the CPU is considered the "brains" of the computer, you'll want something that is fast but won't break your wallet. Once you decide the CPU, it is easy to choose the other components such as the motherboard that will accommodate it.
Because computer technology is changing so fast, it is never a good move to buy anything that is the best in its category. For example, an Athlon 64 FX-55 costs around $850 currently. A slightly slower Athlon 64 3500+ costs around $275. Except for very demanding applications and games you will not notice a difference in performance, but a heavy cut in price.
My recommendation for the best processor right now, considering price vs. performances would definitely be an AMD 64 2800+. This 64-bit processor will provide you excellent performance and also keep you up-to-date with current technology. 64-bit CPUs will become useful in the near-future as the next version of Windows will run in 64-bit.
If you are having trouble picking between AMD and Intel, the good news is that you'll get good performance out of either Intel or AMD. You'll want to figure out how you are going to be using your computer before searching for a CPU. When you are searching to buy a CPU, you might notice that places sell a Retail and OEM version of CPUs. Retail means you will get the full package when you buy that processor. This usually includes the CPU and some kind of cooling fan. If you buy an OEM CPU you will get just the CPU. OEM is a good idea if you have a special cooling fan you want to use in mind and want to save a little money.
CPU recommendations for computer applications
You cannot go wrong with a 2700+ AMD Athlon with a Barton core. Currently it provides the best performance vs. price for a budget PC. It should cost you around $80.
CHEAP INTEL SOLUTION!
Intel®
Celeron 2.6GHz / 128k Cache / 400MHz FSB / Socket 478 / Processor
If you are very low on money you can buy this Celeron 2.6 Ghz. It still has a lot of power and right now the only thing that might challenge this processor are the latest games. However this CPU will be on the top of the task for everyday computer work. It should also cost you around $80.
Updated list of Budget CPU recommendations .
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Athlon 64 4000+ For the ultimate gaming experience you have to go with the latest and the greatest CPU. However do not forget my recommendation above. Going one level down will save you a lot of money. In truth, spending all your budget on the CPU will leave you lacking in other areas such as video card and memory which could hurt your performance more than a slow CPU. Yes I could easily recommend you a Athlon 64 FX-55 that will cost you around $850. However, if you buy an Athlon 64 4000 + you will save around $400 for a slight loss of performances, and you will still have 64-bit compatible processor. Intel 3.6 GHz LGA775 Like the AMD CPU, you could get any of the Extreme Edition CPUs but that will leave you less money for other components. The 3.6 GHz LGA775 takes advantage of the latest chipset features and will provide plenty of muscle for your computer for about $400. |
Updated list of Gaming PC CPU recommendations .
HOME THEATER PC / BUSINESS PC / MULTIMEDIA PC
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If you need a quick recommendation
for any of these types of PCs, my choice would be the AMD
Athlon 3000+ . It offers more than enough power for an affordable
price. You can read reviews here
. I have also made separate recommendations for CPUs for HOME
THEATER PC , BUSINESS
PC and MULTIMEDIA
PC . |