Top LGA1366 processor for MSI HD7870 with 2GB RAM and Dell T3500
Top LGA1366 processor for MSI HD7870 with 2GB RAM and Dell T3500
I'd search for a W3690 or x5690. With a solid motherboard you're more likely to get the W3690 since it offers more memory slots. I own an X5690, which is perfect for overclocking, but the absence of dividers made it less interesting. If you need an X series, match it with RAM that has better timing. Lower CAS values are ideal.
There aren’t any BIOS settings for boosting performance, but tools like ThrottleStop or Intel XTU can help you achieve this. I’ve used these methods on my T3500 for many years. I’d steer clear of the X series—they lock the maximum multiplier and won’t let you overclock. The W3680 and W3690 are unlocked, making them your top options. Avoid the W3670 as it’s also locked. I favor the W3680 mainly because it’s more affordable. The T3500 lacks voltage adjustment, so both models will reach around 4.0 GHz when fully loaded. For cooling, use any standard case fan and attach it to the side of the original cooler. Upgrading the case fan improves airflow without much effort. I reduced the fan voltage for quieter operation. These chips handle heat well since they run at default voltages even after overclocking. To get peak performance, raise your TDP/TDC accordingly. With sufficient power limits, they can sustain full speed without throttling. The standard TDP is 130W; I likely increased it to about 190W for optimal results. It’s unclear if a higher TDC was necessary, but default values probably worked fine. These processors are robust and can handle high loads, so pushing power limits shouldn’t damage them. I’m not entirely sure about the TDC adjustment, but it might have been adequate. Recent Intel XTU releases don’t support the W3680, so ThrottleStop is a solid choice.
Why not? X58 CPUs demand significant power to achieve peak performance. It's advisable to purchase an unlocked CPU. You can adjust power limits to low for efficiency or high for optimal speed. An unlocked CPU gives you full control over its operation. Even at 190W, the Dell OEM cooler with a fan was sufficient to prevent overheating. The X5650 can handle full load up to 2933 MHz. Its 95W TDP limit ensures it won't exceed that speed. https://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/Xeon/Intel-Xeon X5650 - AT80614004320AD (BX80614X5650).html A W3680 will manage the same workload 40% quicker. The added expense is justified.
I'm still relying on the HD7870, which matches the GTX 1050/950 specs. Since it's not a high-end GPU, it doesn't require a powerful CPU like a Ryzen 5 2400G for optimal performance.
Just because you raise the power cap to 100W doesn't guarantee the CPU will use that much extra energy. It only draws what it needs. When not in use or lightly busy, the difference is minimal. Running games nonstop for eight hours could add a few cents daily—about a small cost. The unlocked W series usually offer better performance stability. This means they can maintain consistent speeds similar to some X-series CPUs but with lower voltage, possibly using less power overall.
I don’t have personal preferences, but you might want to consider the W3680 if you’re looking at mid-range options locally. It’s important to compare prices and features before deciding.