In need of advice for Intel CPU choice

[Luis]

Hi folks!

Since I am considering to build a new system, I don't want to go wrong with the CPU. Right now, I'm pondering these two options:

i7 3820

i7 3770

3820 sports quad memory channel support and 10 MB L3 cache, while 3770 is dual memory channel and 8 MB L3. However, 3770 is smaller and less power-hungry (this does matter to me in the long run), and it seems to feature more "advanced technologies" according to Intel's site, "fast memory access" among others, which might make up a bit for the dual channel feature versus quad channel. In terms of raw power, both CPUs seem to be pretty much on par (please correct me if my impression is wrong).

Note that I will not be usually encoding audio/video or compressing files all the time, I won't play too many games and I will never, ever tinker with overclocking. What I will be doing is virtualizing other OSes from time to time as well as regular desktop work. Also, I could get either CPU at about the same price, although 3820's suitable motherboards are quite a lot more expensive.

Please let me know about any aspects I may have missed and things to take into account in the future. I plan to buy a CPU that will last me for no less than 5 years. Thanks in advance.

[Viper]

i7 3770.

[goku2057]

I would say that the 3770 is a better option for your needs, as well.