I'm really confused right now, E6X00

[Larsson85]

I've had my heart set on a E6600 the whole time. During this time I've seen one great OC result ofter the other with the 2mb cache cpu:s. This makes me think. Which is really the best option.

E6600 with P5W or
E6400 with DS3

If we look at this test it kind of looks like even if we dont care about the price E6400 is still the best choice.
http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?id=2014&cid=2&pg=0

What is the reason for why the 2mb extra chache doesnt seem to matter, is it that todays programs arent written for cpu:s with that much cache or what is it?

[CedricFP]

Well, there is 1m :rolleyes:

But in all honesty, the choice is yours and it's up to what you are willing to spend. There is no debate that the extra 2M cache is beneficial but whether or not you feel it is benecificial enough to warrant the extra money.. well, we can't make up your mind for you, and in all honesty, it seems like you already have your mind made up.

If I were in your shoes (IE. wasn't out of a job and could afford a new system), I'd pick up the 6400, see how it did, then a 6600 at a later date to see how that did for a direct comparison, but my first chip would be the 6400.

The extra 2M cache may or may not benefit you to a greater degree in the future (I have a feeling it will.)

I hope this post helped :)

[matt1]

Note that most E6600s are hitting 3.2GHz overclocks and it would be nice if that review showed it's performance in comparison to the overclocked E6300. Bang for buck, the E6300 is definately a top choice but the E6600 is the lowest model of the Conroe cores and I feel this is also good value for what it is. I personally wouldn't put 1.6v through my CPU like that review.

[irenic]

i owned e6300 and e6600 and i can say E6600 is faster in benchies at same clockspeed ( @ 3.15ghz)

but in real life or gaming, there might be a lil performance increase in E6600 but honestly i cant feel any different.

buti i decide to keep this E6600 and sold my E6300. Maybe bcoz i need higher clockspeed (than 1.86ghz) for 24/7..

[CedricFP]

1.86? I thought the 6300 was 2.13.

[Donnie27]

1.86? I thought the 6300 was 2.13.

No. The E6400 is 2.13GHz.