Buying a computer system/AMD processor and motherboard

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Expert: - 5/26/2008


Question
To save money I am not buying Intel-Core processor. Instead I am buying AMD
processor and motherboard. But I want to know that will Vista run smoothly on
AMD processor and motherboard? Or will it run slow? Can I play music, watch
TV and play games smoothly? Also my dealer told me to go for AMD as it has
64bit instead of 32 and thus better for games. Is it true?

Answer
AMD CPUs can run Vista and other software just fine, assuming you're purchasing a modern AMD CPU, something like Phenom X3 or Phenom X4 will do quite nicely, if you're purchasing an older part, such as Athlon X2, go for something with a model number 5000 or higher (like 5600+ or 6000+).

As far as 64-bit vs 32-bit, you won't really notice a difference (although there is a very large one), I wouldn't worry about it (no modern CPU in the last ~3 years has been 32-bit, so don't worry about it).

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

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I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

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15+ years of experience

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