X38 vs. P35

JohnJSal

JohnJSal

Active Member
These seem to be the latest two chipsets, and pretty much the only realistic choices if you're going to do any gaming. But could someone explain the difference between the two? I've read that one difference is that X38 supports dual x16 slots, while P35 uses one at a slower speed.
 
The most significant difference is that the P35 only supports one PCI-E x16 slot at the full 16x bandwidth, while the second slot is limited to 4x bandwidth. The X38 has two full PCI-E x16 slots which also use the new PCI-E 2.0 standard.

Some other differences are that the X38 supports 45nm CPU's out of the box, faster bus speeds (1600MHz bus), and it has newer heatpipe designs and such.
 
[-0MEGA-];863335 said:
The most significant difference is that the P35 only supports one PCI-E x16 slot at the full 16x bandwidth, while the second slot is limited to 4x bandwidth. The X38 has two full PCI-E x16 slots which also use the new PCI-E 2.0 standard.

Some other differences are that the X38 supports 45nm CPU's out of the box, faster bus speeds (1600MHz bus), and it has newer heatpipe designs and such.
Click to expand...

Oh, I didn't realize P35 didn't support PCIe 2.0 (never thought about it). I suppose it's worth the money to go for an X38 then, if it isn't too much more. Seems like the best way to not have to replace your mobo too soon. :)
 
JohnJSal said:
Oh, I didn't realize P35 didn't support PCIe 2.0 (never thought about it). I suppose it's worth the money to go for an X38 then, if it isn't too much more. Seems like the best way to not have to replace your mobo too soon. :)
Click to expand...
If you are planning on spending over $200 on a motherboard, then definitely go with the X38. However the cheapest X38 is only around $200, so if you are looking for a budget board then the P35 is the best/only choice.
 
Yeah I plan on getting a P35 or a nForce MB chipset. It is nice to know that in order to use a 2.0 card you need X38. Thanks
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top