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Originally Posted by serialk11r
If you're trying to save money, DDR3 is not the way to go. DDR2 is literally cheap as dirt, you can grab 4GB for less than 30 bucks most likely. Hell DDR3 sticks are like 10 dollars/GB, on the low end. I'm fairly sure you can get 8GB DDR2 used for 60 bucks if you look hard. Likewise, the older stuff represents some serious value.
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You actually have it backwards, DDR2 is more expensive than DDR3. DDR2 is obsolete memory and has been for quite some time. As I listed before 4GB of DDR3-1600 is $28 dollars from Newegg (or $56 for 8GB) where as 4GB DDR2-800 is $40+ and 4GB DDR2-1066 is $60+. The one place you don't want to skimp is system Memory. DDR3 far out performs DDR2.
Quote:
Originally Posted by serialk11r
I think the main area where performance has really taken off is graphics in the past few years, newer CPUs are fast, but not incredibly so by comparison. I think a lot of people are still holding onto their S775 stuff because it still performs well. Sandybridge is finally at 32nm, but those processors are crazy expensive.
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Intel has done some amazing things with their CPU's and AMD has done some amazing things with their GPU's. You're not recommending he build a new socket 775 system are you? E8400 CPU is still $180, E8500 is $210 and the cheapest s775 mobo is $45. Compared to a brand new i3 2100 @ $125 with a nice s1155 mobo @ $73. He would pay more for extremely outdated hardware. They're not even remotely comparable on any benchmark.
Quote:
Originally Posted by serialk11r
Getting a new hard drive might be a good idea, your old one is probably quite slow and noticably impacts day to day performance (loading apps, etc.).
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Definitely want to upgrade to a SATA HDD, but it's not as crucial as the other major components. CPU > Memory > GPU > HDD
Quote:
Originally Posted by serialk11r
8400GS is quite crappy as well but I guess you could live with it if you don't play games or anything.
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Definitely a dated GPU. The HD6670 would be a night and day improvement and it's hard to beat for the budget you're on. The next noticeable upgrade per dollar would be the GTX560 but that's in the $200 ballpark.