Thread: which one is best CPU?

They CPU are:

Intel Core 2 Duo E8400
Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400

I'm making a new build.
It will be mainly used for.
Burning DVD's, General Operations (Moving files to drives), and Gaming. What are your thoughts everyone? Which one should I go with?

Personally I would rather have the Q8400, 2 more cores to me is a better deal than a faster clock speed. However they said, there will be no new processors for socket 775, you'll be replacing your whole system if you decide to upgrade again. Which is actually another reason to choose the quad vs. dual since the future is leading towards multi threaded applications.

However if you went AMD, their socket AM3 is current, and they have plans for an X6 series later next year, and who knows what else will be compatible with it.

Assuming you run them stock, sometimes the E8400 will be better, sometimes the Q8400 will be better. If you use your PC for mostly one intensive, non-multi threaded activity at a time, the E8400 will be better more often.

But the i5 750 will be a lot better than either. Check the prices in your area. This is a new socket, and the beginning of a new line of cpus, not an old line from either manufacturer. In the US, the price difference would be small.

Alright, well I took into account about the i5. And understand where the old sockets are leading. I am also surprised that i5's are only a bit more. I suppose it is worth it in the long run. So you suggest a socket 1156 build for me?