AM2+ vs. AM3

I want my budget to be under $100.

This or this?

I noticed that the AM2+ model has L3 cache, while the AM3 model does not. Also, the HT of the AM3 model is 4000MHz, while the HT of the AM2+ model is 3600MHz. Other than those two, I noticed no other gaping differences.

This will be run in a AM2/AM2+/AM3 motherboard, so I won't be able to take advantage of DDR3 memory. Which processor is better, in terms of pure performance? What about in the long run (I probably won't upgrade again until 6 or 8 cores become more standard)?

 

I'd go with the AM3 for a few reasons:

• It comes with a CPU fan. Even if you have one, it's always good to keep a spare.
• The "retail" boxed units (with fan) have a three-year warranty; "OEM" (no fan) units are 90 days to 1 year depending on the CPU.
• With DDR3 prices falling (currently as low as $49 for 4GB), you'll have the ability to move the CPU to an AM3 board if desired. This could help your budget in the long run by upgrading the board/memory first then jumping to a 6-core CPU later.

 

Thanks for the input, I think I will go with the AM3.

 

Definatly the 635, its a fantastic chip for the price, i'm not too sure about US prices, but in the UK a 635 costs £69 and the cheapest Phenom quad costs £149, (That's more than DOUBLE).

They OC pretty well too, got my 620 to 3.6Ghz.