So Many CPU Choices - Which Is The One For You?

When deciding what to get in a new computer, the processor is the most critical part of a system, as it determines the maximum possible speed that the computer can run at. There are many sockets that CPUs are made for, and many processor models for each socket. The sockets that are currently available are:
AMD AM3
Intel LGA775 (soon to be phased out)
Intel LGA1156
Intel LGA1366


The actual models are:
Athlon II X2
Athlon II X4
Phenom II X2
Phenom II X4
Phenom II X6
Intel Core 2 Duo
Intel Core i5
Intel Core i7



So which is the best? It depends on what you need the computer for. As a general rule of thumb, the Athlon II X2 processors are the cheapest, and still fairly fast for office work, MYOB, web browsing etc. For a quick boost in speed, you could go for a Phenom processor. If you want a gaming machine, work on 3D drawings, or process large amounts of data, go for the Intel Core i5 processor (our best seller!), as these are considerably faster, and even though more expensive than AMD, they are the best value for money at the moment. If you want the top of the range and don't mind spending the dollars, go for Intel Core i7. They are the fastest processors out, but you do pay for the privilege!