I just noticed that the Intel 245k is being sold for much less than its original launch price, and I'm curious if it's a worthwhile purchase. I'm not planning on upgrading my system in the near future, so the upgrade path isn't a big concern for me. Is it a good deal, or should I consider a different CPU instead?
5 Answers
It really depends on your use case—if you're someone who upgrades every five years, then Intel might seem alright. Just keep in mind that Intel boards often have comprehensive specs and features like Thunderbolt, which can be a plus. But if you can hold off a bit, you might find better deals later on, especially around big sales.
If you're looking for a CPU that can handle both gaming and workstation tasks, then yes, the 245k could be a solid option. However, if your main focus is gaming, you might get better value from something like the R5 7600X instead.
While it might look like a good deal now, it won't stand the test of time. The 9700x already outperforms it, and if you plan to stick with the Intel socket, you'll be limiting your future options, especially if AMD's future CPUs land on AM5. You might regret it a year from now.
Honestly, I wouldn't recommend the 245k. It uses a dead socket, which means you won't have an upgrade path in the future. If you're also buying a motherboard with it, then it just doesn't make sense. Instead, consider an AMD on the AM5 platform. Their chips generally outperform Intel in gaming, and you can upgrade to future versions without swapping out your entire setup.
I think the 245k can be decent for the price, but if you're able to stretch your budget a bit more, consider going for the 250k instead. Also, keep in mind that the upgrade path isn't as crucial as some make it seem.
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