amd or i7

[imchief]

What are your opinions on the fastest amd CPU compared with an i7 that will do FSX close to max?  I have looked at the benchmarks for the two chip sets and intel definitely beats AMD but the fastest AMD is far cheaper that many of the newer i7s.  Just wonder if i would be sorry if I purchased an AMD?  I am contemplating a new build but I won't spend more than ~$300 for the CPU.   

[Slotback]

AMD processors in the $200-$300 range are for all but a niche of users (who use programs that scale very well with multiple cores) inferior to their intel competitors. Their newest processor series, the FX, uses the Bulldozer archetecture but has been dubbed "Faildozer" because it is hot, late, and slow. When they are overclocked they will likely noticeably increase your power bill. I'm sorry if it sounds like I'm an intel fanboy, I'm not, the disappointment with AMD recently has been universal.

The processor you want to get is Core i5-2500K or Core i7-2600K. The 2600K isn't as good value, however.

[imchief]

That is what I figured.  Intel keeps coming out with new processors so quick it is hard to keep up on them.  Back when I built my current desktop i new what the best was and which way to go but tech has advanced so much and kinda left me playing the catch up game.  Thanks for the info.

[Slotback]

Intel keeps coming out with new processors so quick it is hard to keep up on them.

Yup, they launch a new processor architecture or move to a new manufacturing process every 12-18 months. The replacement to the current Core i5 is expected in April. It's not expected to be significantly faster though so if you want a new computer now then don't bother waiting.