Choosing an AMD processor

[bluepan]

I am building an AMD computer and I have everything picked out. However I am torn between two CPUs.

The first is: AMD Athlon II X4 620 Propus 2.6GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM3 95W Quad-Core
Newegg.com - AMD Athlon II X4 620 Propus 2.6GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM3 95W Quad-Core Processor - Processors - Desktops

The other is: AMD Phenom II X3 720 2.8GHz 3 x 512KB L2 Cache 6MB L3 Cache Socket AM3 95W Triple-Core Black
Newegg.com - AMD Phenom II X3 720 2.8GHz 3 x 512KB L2 Cache 6MB L3 Cache Socket AM3 95W Triple-Core Black Processor - Processors - Desktops

I need some input on which one is better for all-around gaming and multitasking.

I'm basically looking for the most bang for my buck. There is about a $20 difference in price between the two (the quad core is cheaper).

Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

[veg1992]

Depends on which motherboard you are using.

I'd get the Propus if you don't have a board that can do Advanced Clock Calibration. Get the Phenom II X3 720 if you do have it, it can unlock the 4th core (possibly, but not 100%).

I'd prefer the Propus Athlon II X4 for $99 though.

 

[bluepan]

I'm adding one more into the mix........

AMD Athlon II X4 630 Propus 2.8GHz 4 x 512KB L2 Cache Socket AM3 95W Quad-Core

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103704

My MB= GIGABYTE GA-MA770T-UD3P

 

[Muffin Man]

the propus 620 and 630 are the same cpu, except that the more expensive 630 is clocked 200mhz higher stock. i wouldnt consider it since you can easily OC the 620 by 200mhz higher yourself.

 

[bluepan]

Is the Phenom II the better of the three simply based on the 6mb L3 cache?

 

[veg1992]

If you game or multitask, you'd see more of a difference from the extra core than the extra cache.

 

[95BlackGA]

I say get the 620, if you do decide on a board with ACC there's a chance you can unlock L3 cache. If you don't get a board with ACC, at least you'll have a quad, that newer games can take advantage of.