Computer Build Part 2a: CPU

Now the CPU that I decided to go with is the Intel Core i7 860. This CPU is part of Intel's new i7 lineup, now compatible with all price budgets. They basically have split it into 3 main sections.

• i3, for the budget priced and beginners
• i5, for the mainstream users
• i7, for the high-end professionals and gamers

Now my reasoning for going with the i7 is pretty simple. I originally wanted a new computer to speed up my old Pentium 4 3.0GHz for 3D modeling work, like my often-used open source program Blender. I also do some gaming, but i5 CPUs will work fine with games.
The i7 860 is one of the best CPUs you can get for an LGA1156 socket motherboard (more on that later). The i7 CPUs have a technique that allows the 4 cores to be masked into 8, versus the i5 which have 2 masked into 4.

Besides the functional aspect of the CPU, I also found a really good deal on Microcenter. The average price is about US $270-280, and Microcenter was having a sale for $230 (as of 01/23/10). The i7 920 is also on sale for $220. Please note it is in-store pickup only. Here's the link if your interested.

Part 2b