Which is better for gaming? X5687 vs x5675?
Which is better for gaming? X5687 vs x5675?
I'm looking at upgrading my setup with the x5650 (6 cores, 2.6 GHz) and considering alternatives like the x5687 (4 cores, 8 threads, 3.6 GHz) and x5675 (6 cores, 12 threads, 3.1 GHz). Both are similar in price. For gaming, I'll prioritize cores over clock speed since I plan to use it mainly for that. I’ll pair it with an RX 580 and will not replace the CPU, as I’m using a Chinese X58 board.
LGA 1366 Xeons offer overclocking potential, allowing the six-core chip to reach 4GHz. However, a more suitable CPU might be better. X58 provides an enjoyable overclocking experience, but the price of the boards is high and the CPUs lag behind current performance expectations.
I'm using an x58 motherboard in China, and these boards aren't great at overclocking, so I won't try to overclock.
Are you purchasing a budget X58 motherboard with CPU or looking for locally available used boards? The X58 offers poor value, and even a used P6 model is unlikely to fetch much at around $37. It’s more practical to opt for a used B450 or X470 model under $60 paired with a budget Ryzen processor like the 1600(A) or 2600(X5675), which provide better performance and newer features compared to the X58. The X58 lacks support for modern instructions like AVX, making some games unplayable. Using an older Ryzen model is more efficient, consumes less power, and remains comparable to the X58 even with a reduced core count. High-end Ryzen boards still command high prices despite lower power consumption, and the market doesn’t justify such costs for mainstream gaming. Only consider sub-$40 motherboards, sub-$15 CPUs, and sub-$40 RAM if you're targeting ultra-budget systems.
They support 4GHz, but the cost of those Chinese X58 boards seems unreasonable.
Don't even consider x58 unless you're okay with it—it's just rubbish without it and still not great even with the right specs (2200 ddr3 + 4.6g 6 core + 3700-3900uclk)
You're spending quite a bit on that board? It seems like it's not delivering much power beyond 4GHz, which means the VRM might struggle unless you're planning to boost it. The voltage should be set to 1.35V, and the BCLK needs to be adjusted to around 180MHz for a target frequency of 4GHz. Make sure the memory speed isn't too high unless you're ready to push it overclocking. Honestly, unless it's around $40 or less, this isn't a great deal.
In reality, even my garbage x5660 chip that only boots on Windows with a low 4.85g at 1.7v using two cores (seriously, it’s a test sample) can handle 4g at 1.27v all cores running at peak performance. Thanks to the garbage cooler, it reaches near 95°C with 95% efficiency. If this kind of CPU could maintain that speed, you’d likely need around 1.3v, but on average it’s about 1.25v. You should aim for a clock speed between 200-220, with higher clocks being better. IHIO/NB voltages should stay in the range of 1.26 to 1.3v. For those speeds, you’ll need I/O/IB voltages between 1.26 and 1.3v. Don’t expect anything close to 1400 even at 224v—focus on stability instead of raw speed. If the board supports adjusting the clock and PPI link, set PPI to its lowest multi and use a clock between 3700-3900 with VTT/QPI at 1.4-1.45v. The claim about over 1.35v PPI/VTT is misleading; I’ve seen it run smoothly at 1.48-1.55v for hours without issues. For QPI/VTT, keep the difference under 0.5v. I’ve tested a Samsung Rev F at 2.46v for 8 hours with 1.48v and no degradation. Intel’s specs say a core voltage of 1.55v (32nm/22nm) is possible, but keep it under 1.4v to avoid overheating and damage. The core speed should not exceed the CPU’s actual capability, as that often causes errors. RAM modules should be checked manually on bare PCB or via the burner if covered. If these boards have adjustable clock and PPI settings, prioritize lower multi and higher voltage to ensure reliability. For DDR3 OC checks, look at the sticks directly or use a diagnostic tool. If they have an ultra-quick thermal spreader, that helps maintain performance without risking damage.