Question about PC's

[FR4NOx]

A quad is best for gaming.

I do like Intel because they are proven performers with newer technology than AMD, don't forget that Ivy Bridge will be released in two weeks and the base Ivy will be around $300USD, same as a 2600.

The choice between Intel and AMD is yours.

Go for a quad core. If you want Intel, go for the 2500k. If you want AMD, you can experiment with the FX-4100 or go for the Phenom II x4 955BE and overclock to save money. Quad core is plenty of power for a gamer's needs.

Personally, I wouldn't be caught dead without liquid cooling because I usually test the limits of my hardware when overclocking. Also I would personally use a 6 core because I do a lot of hi res video editing, and quote a bit of multitasking.

If you aren't planning on a lot of overclocking, stock cooling or a moderately priced hsf will do fine.

Also, for a power supply, more than 600 is too much for most people, more than 600 would be for people running SLi with a 990x or something similar.

Edit: Saw Michi's post, I you want to save money on liquid count and/or want a simple installation, the older H50 is fine and only takes up one 120mm fan slot compared to the H100.

If you want an example...

A gaming enthusiast that would overclock a 2500k to 5GHz (well if he can), he'd be best suited with the h100. If he overclocked to 4.2GHz, an H80, or H50 if you don't mind a bit more heat, is good.

If you simply want a quiet system without a lot of overclocking, an H50 would be perfect in my opinion.