Intel vs AMD Processor
chuckinsocal
Registered Users Posts: 932 Major grins
HI Gang,
Been shopping for a new computer recently and I was pretty much stuck on an Intel processor. But, I had a salesman tell me last night that if I buy Intel I'd be paying mostly for the name and that for the same price I can get an AMD that is twice as fast, capable, etc.
Over the last 5 years I've paid virtually no attention to computer technology so I'm wondering if anyone has any wisdom to share on the subject.
As always, thanks for the help.
Been shopping for a new computer recently and I was pretty much stuck on an Intel processor. But, I had a salesman tell me last night that if I buy Intel I'd be paying mostly for the name and that for the same price I can get an AMD that is twice as fast, capable, etc.
Over the last 5 years I've paid virtually no attention to computer technology so I'm wondering if anyone has any wisdom to share on the subject.
As always, thanks for the help.
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Comments
IMO Intel is THE way to go! However, I did note that on More than one site where I did benchmarks and compared my scores, 6 core (12 thread) AMD's beat my 4 core (8 thread) in speed.
But as far as apples to apples, Intel!
As an aside, You can tell the salesman, Xeon is more than a name, and AMd can't touch it!
I am a Intel fan myself, but not all computers are created equal, so unless you do some research on the different computers in your price range, buying totally based on the processor brand is a bad idea. Its sort of like asking should I buy a Ford or a Chevy, with total disregard to the model, a Ford pickup is totally different then a Ford Mustang. You can only compare apples to apples.
The first thing you need to learn, is that 99% of computer salesmen don't have a clue what there talking about, the ones that do usually have a better paying job then working at Bestbuy.
Your best bet is going to be to come up with a list of computers in your price range, make a note of the model of the computer and what processor they use. Then hop online and look for reviews and benchmarks of each processor model. You might not understand it all, but it is pretty easy to look at a chart of processors being compared and see what one is the faster one. Your next step would be to read reviews on the models of computer, and actually see what your buying! Memory and hard drives can always VERY easily be added at any time, so dont buy a computer totally based on the highest numbers you see, instead, go by the reviews and benchmarks you read online.
1. Your photography is not going to be affected by which CPU you are running.
2. No matter which computer you buy, there will be a faster one on the market a month later, and a much faster one a year later.
3. The difference between a computer salesman and a used car salesman is that the used car salesman knows when he is lying.
Get a machine that fits your budget and has enough power to do what you need for as long as you think you will keep it. The rest doesn't matter.
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... in pretty much that order.
I've had more problems with compatibility and speed from the graphics card and driver set than any other single component. Some software is relatively sensitive to particular setups and the graphics card is often part of the sensitivity.
The motherboard is another part that deserves attention because it can impact many other decisions, like total amount of supported RAM, the type of processor you can use, the type and number of video cards you can use and the likelihood of bottlenecks, etc.
Consider the system as a whole, do your research, make your best choice based on your own research, buy accordingly.
Moderator of the Cameras and Accessories forums
I'm pretty sure I'm going to have one custom built so I can mix and match my components the way I want to rather than get something off the shelf that may have more or less of what I need/want. Plus, I like the idea of local service as opposed to having to rely on customer service at HP or whoever if something goes wrong.
I'll probably stick with Intel as soon as I figure out their current model numbers and what they all mean.
I'm using PS CS3 right now but I'll likely upgrade to CS5 after I get the new computer.
Thanks again for all your input.
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Artistically & Creatively Challenged
You're welcome! I think having one custom made is the best solution this side of DIY! There are several companies that will do that for you, if you don't have a local shop. These companies will listen to your needs and guide you accordingly. CS5 is def. a great way to go too!
The tech is changing constantly, so going for top of the line "newest" stuff may be a bit daunting, just because there is not a lot of user input to guide you. Apple now uses Intel, and uses Intel's 2-CPU Xeon processors for max grunt. These systems can be pricey, but you also get a system that'll handle bout anything that you throw at it and while there are new pieces coming out almost Monthly in the lower budget ranges, Intel Xeon is still top of the top in Pure CPU grunt-power.
Best recommendation other than finding a reputable builder is joining a Computer forum and asking your questions and getting answers from direct-use geeks! Sifting thru the marketing hyperbole alone can be a daunting task!
Good Luck!
This is mostly true, however, I'll throw out a small caution - many machines with entry-level graphics cards or integrated graphics come with fairly wimpy power supplies. Most of the higher-end graphics cards require a lot of power which may require a power-supply upgrade as well.
I am aware that "I" can easily change out a video card and update the driver. For someone trying to decide on a new machine the choice of software can drive the choice of video card, which can impact the choice of motherboard, ... and so on.
Yes, if you find a computer that has all you want except for the video card, and if the pricing makes sense and the computer will accept your desired video card, then by all means buy the computer and upgrade the video card. Do make sure that the computer has the appropriate bus and speed to support the card. Make sure that the computer has enough physical space too because some of the better cards take a fair amount of room, especially with some of the cooling systems available.
I just advise everyone to do their own research and save themselves potential problems later on.
Moderator of the Cameras and Accessories forums
I only build my own systems, personally, I would never buy one pre built or custom built.
The approach of building your own computer, usually starts with the motherboard, what memory it supports, and what CPU you want to use. The motherboard is the most important part of the computer, as it determines what hardware you can use with it. When building a computer, the motherboard is always the tough decision. Pretty much, as long as you get a MB with a current PCI slot in it, you can use almost any current graphics card you want in it.
The problem with buying a computer at a store, is that hardly no manufacturers list the motherboard model they used, so your sort of taking a gamble on the motherboard.
Fortunately, almost all computers list the slots available, and one can easily find out what graphics cards the computer will support (with current power supply) and everything they need to know about the computer online.