Which CPU is Better?
Which CPU is Better?
Intel Core 2 chipsets indeed offered support for DDR3 starting from P35. It's crucial to understand they are limited to very low-density DDR3 with 2Gbit chips that haven't been produced in seven years. Intel CPUs with IMC can handle up to 4Gbit chips (8GB sticks), whereas AMD supports up to 8Gbit chips (16GB sticks). This explains why some DDR3 listings are labeled as "AMD only."
These processors lack an internal memory controller, meaning they cannot recognize or support any form of memory beyond what's provided. They rely solely on the FSB for communication.
If you're using the right board, the X5470 stands out as the optimal choice for this task due to its 10x multiplier, enabling 4GHz operation at the same 1600FSB as the X5482. The X5460 performs similarly at 9.5x for 3.8GHz on the same FSB. Both outperform the Q9650, which only offers a 9x boost and would need 444MHz (1776FSB) to achieve 4.0GHz, making it harder for dual-channel configurations to reach high frequencies. The X5482's 8x multiplier is even less favorable unless you're aiming for standard speeds.
If your board supports Xeon microcodes on this platform, a premodified Xeon X5460 that fits into S775 (without needing socket changes) and uses welded pads (no stickers required) is available for $24 on eBay. This price is significantly lower than a Q9650. You already possess the highest possible DDR3 capacity for Core 2 architecture, and several DDR2 boards can accommodate 16GB.
I wasn't really considering less than the x5482. The X5460 is a bit more affordable.
My current gaming desktop uses an X5450 with 6gb RAM and a GTX 690. It will be upgraded to an i7 6700k, which I found for around 170$ CAD, 16gb 3200MHz RAM, and a nice Asus motherboard.
I think I probably won't need more than 8gb for this small build. (In fact, a high-end Lenovo thinkcentre m58 6258 is available—30 of them from an e-waste bin.)
I'm working on a 2024 build with an old LGA775 PC, running an e8400 on an ANNUS P5QLD motherboard. I purchased a 256GB SSD from AliExpress, updated the BIOS with the latest microcode, and am deciding which Xeon model to buy next on AliExpress. I was unsure whether to go with 1600FSB or 1333FSB units. You actually helped me figure it out... I plan to go with the X5460 and install a modern air cooler, then see what performance I can achieve. I’ll have a spare 360mm watercooler soon, but I’ll need to adjust the case fit. I’m sticking to budget options for these upgrades.