Which Athlon for overclocking?
QuadyTheTurnip
Icrontian
Sorry if this is a dumb question, I've never even looked into overclocking before this week.
I'm looking at two different Athlon II X4 CPUs, the 2.6 Ghz one, and the 2.8 Ghz one. All the reviews for both of them say that they're great for overclocking. There's loads of reports of getting both stably to 3.2 Ghz.
So i'm wondering: how complex or challenging would it be for a complete overclocking n00b to get one of those up to 3.2?
And, is the 2.8 just a 2.6 clocked higher, or are there other differences? (I.e., should I get buy the 2.6 Ghz model or the 2.8 Ghz model?).
Thanks!
I'm looking at two different Athlon II X4 CPUs, the 2.6 Ghz one, and the 2.8 Ghz one. All the reviews for both of them say that they're great for overclocking. There's loads of reports of getting both stably to 3.2 Ghz.
So i'm wondering: how complex or challenging would it be for a complete overclocking n00b to get one of those up to 3.2?
And, is the 2.8 just a 2.6 clocked higher, or are there other differences? (I.e., should I get buy the 2.6 Ghz model or the 2.8 Ghz model?).
Thanks!
0
Comments
+1.
For a slightly more expanded reason, when you're planning to overclock you typically purchase the slowest processor in the desired line (that's why my PC has a Q9450 in it - slowest 12MB L2 quad) and then crank it up as far as it'll go. Typically, one processor "line" (line in this case meaning slew of models based on the same chip) generally has similar limits when you look at overclocking, whether the base speed of the chip is low or high. Therefore, you get more bang for your buck by purchasing the low end chip and pushing it to its reasonable maximum.
Is he right? And how do I go about picking one? Heatsink alone? Or fan as well?
(the case i'm getting comes with a side and back fan, and slots for two top fans and a front fan, both of which i'm going to install)
You will need an AM3 kit. I think this would work.
EDIT:
Got any other good sites for heatsinks?
I've been reading reviews, and it looks great.
As well, the CoGage brand AM3 bolt-thru kit looks identical to the Thermalright one, so that should be fine too.
I sent an email to SVC asking if they'll be getting any more in soon. Otherwise, I guess i'll have to look elsewhere on the 'net.
Three questions your confusion-inducing suggestion raises :
1. Does the Phenom have any other advantages over the Athlon besides the 0.6 more Ghz?
2. According to one of my real life friends, I'd need an aftermarket heatsink anyways, as supplied heatsinks are always crap. True or False?
3. Assuming I got the Phenom without an aftermarket heatsink, could the Phenom be oveclocked in the future if I got an aftermarket heatsink later?
2. Not crap, per se, but not good enough for any significant overclocking.
3. Yes.
But if you want to get overclocking experience and also the fun. I can very well understand that. I caught that bug long ago.
And very addictive!! What was the results of this issue??
Currently playing with a PII X4 945 and had to re-remember some of the fun points of OC'ing after 4 BEs! Agree with mirage and Thrax on the 955 if you haven't yet. If this will be your first adventure in oc'ing being a BE would be great!
THKS