I currently have a five year old PC with an Intel Pentium 2.8GHz with HyperThread.

 

I've ordered an XPS 700 with the Pentium® D Processor 930 with Dual Core Technology (3.00GHz, 800FSB)

 

Since I've ordered I've been reading up on the Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme Intel processors. I really am confused now if I'm ordering the right processor for this PC. I want a gaming PC that can handle pretty much anything but now I'm confused. 

 

I guess the question is this:  Is the 3.00GHz Pentium D with the Dual Core going to be that much of an improvement on the 2.8GHz w/HT that  I already have?  And if it is not, then is the 2.67GHz Core 2 Duo faster than 2.8GHz w/HT?

 

I know that it's RAM and components that make a PC fast, and as a last resort I may consider the 2.93GHz Core 2 Extreme. If the 2.67GHz Core 2 Duo though is appreciably faster than the 2.8GHz w/HT that I currently have, then I would probably get the better video cards. If I get the 2.93GHz, I probably wouldn't be able to do that.

 

I don't really do much multi-tasking so would the 3.80GHz w/HT that is available be another option for me to consider?  (kinda want the Core 2 technology though)  :smileywink:

 

I've never had a Dell before, so any help you can give me would be much appreciated. The goal here is to have a sweet gaming machine that I won't have to upgrade at all for a long time.

Thanks.