Best bang for the buck cpu for performance but mostly overclocking

[Damian^]

So i havn't really kept up with the latest in Intel cpus, especially with their i3/i5s. I've been under the rock now using AMD, although i have played around with Intel chips.

Right now i am getting tired with my current rig, and i want something to really get back into the overclocking scene and I have been wanting to play with an Intel machine for a while now.

I'm thinking of going with the I3 but because of my lack of focus on Intel, i also don't know what motherboard would work best for overclocking. Should i get a P55, or would those Hxx motherboards suffice.

TWIST: While overclocking is the main aspect, i do want to make this purchase worthy, seeing as how i will be going from a top notch AMD 965 quad core. This kind of scares me from buying an i3 since they're only dual cores, so...how is the I5 750 for overclocking?

Help me begin this overclocking journey

[zsamz_]

you can get a used 920 cheap these days 200-240
or get a cheap 750 for -200 new

[Damian^]

yeah but a 920 will cost more in the long run. I'd have to get an X58 along with triple channel set of ram. I won't be making too much cash ofF my current rig that i plan to sell. And since i only plan on doing DICE, i figured medium-end is okay

[zsamz_]

even the 530-540 are nice
theres a nice 661 in fs section real cheap

[Hondacity]

661 is the best bang... super low power..and 5ghz capable. with h55 you don't even need a videocard )

[radaja]

get the gigabyte H55M-UD2H if you go the clarkdale route
they have done 321bclk!!!!mine did 250 on air

[Damian^]

the 661 does look nice. But for $200 i could get the 750, im guessing it doesn't overclock as good as other intel chips?

[Hondacity]

45nm is old tech

[Damian^]

that it is

[thebanik]

Though x58 platform is costlier its worth every buck of it for an overclocker if you are not looking at only the clocks. A decent i7 920 will easily do 5.1-5.2Ghz on DICE which is enough to compete in both CPU as well as GPU tests on Hwbot. Ofcourse if you are doing it for learning or high CPU clocks then a i3/i5 would make more sense.

[Damian^]

Thanks for the input, i'll see if i can fit that into an option come the day i sell my computer

[Frag Maniac]

yeah but a 920 will cost more in the long run.

Depends what you define as "long run". On the one hand, yes, you will pay more for the parts up front on 1366. On the other hand, it's most likely going to be a longer lasting platform, esp with 1155 right around the corner.