Pros: Decent OC - got it stable to 2.4 GHz (can't go higher, don't know if due to CPU or MB, probably MB) @ stock voltage (higher voltage didn't seem to help). Very capable, runs pretty cool with Freezer Pro 64/Arctic Silver 5 - about 32-40 C non-load/load, faster than my C2D loading Windows and startup apps, MUCH faster than Athlon 64 4000+ it replaced, overall VERY capable and a GREAT value for the price.

Cons: Not as fast as my C2D running games and high end apps, OC not nearly as good as C2D although some others have had better success w/ a better MB than mine.

Overall Review: Make sure you go to AMD and install updates or you won't be able to play games. Remember this is a relatively new core - make sure your MB supports it, inherently or with bios update. Also, if you want good OC get a good MB.

Pros: Good price, decent features, easy to setup bios, very good build quality, good layout, good manual.

Cons: Dated chipset, NO support for 64 bit OS (included disk is not compatible w/ Windows x64 etc, MSI website has some help, plus need to DL Geforce chipset drv from nvidia), video ok but not spectacular. Would like to use the excellent software included but I can't because the included disk is not Win x64 compatible.

Overall Review: Good board for the price - I bought it because I thought I was going to use the onboard video but then decided to get a Geforce 7600GT instead. In retrospect I'd get a board with a better & newer nvidia chipset.

Pros: Seems to be working well with an Ivy Bridge I5. Had enough room for Antec HSF, RAM, and Video Card. Includes more modern items (than some old 1155 boards), like support for 8-pin power to board for CPU & USB 3.0 ports plus connector for front panel. Has PS/2 - kind of nice in case you have older Mouse/KB. Price!

Cons: Tiny, I mean really tiny. Video Card, once inserted, all but blocks access to 2 of 4 SATA ports. Only 2 fan headers, including CPU HSF. Sounds is ok but not great. Only one SATA 6Gb/s - not an issue for most, but is if more than one HD.

Overall Review: I'd definitely recommend for an older CPU and DDR3.

Pros: Um, looks fairly nice... Decent feature set, I think.

Cons: DOA. Wow, put together a mid-high end system for a customer, and nothing, nada. ASUS, what gives? I guess a company is entitled to a few duds, and I have installed quite a few ASUS baords, but never one where nothing is working (well, the little green LED is on). Now have to wait for RMA process...

Overall Review: Bleh

Pros: Amazing that the Bloomfield core is still viable, but it is. Overclocks well (see below). Allows triple-channel ram. Still one of the fastest CPUs out there, even at stock. High OCing ability (4+ GHz) attainable, and you can leave Hyperthreading on, which gives impressive multi-tasking capability. At 4 GHz, only about 32 C at idle, even with a slight volt bump. Although not cheap, it's a strong value now that the price is dropped.

Cons: Overclocks well, but not easily. Very difficult to tweak (many settings to adjust, in increments - very time consuming to get the best performance), although rewarded by impressive speed once done. Not as dominant vs. Sandy/Ivy Bridge and Bulldozer as vs. the CPUs available when it debuted, but it's still fairly expensive. Included HSF highly not recommended if OCing.

Overall Review: Stock HSF NOT adequate for OCing - I used Sunbeam Twister; it's massive, and has two 120 mm fans, and is very reasonably priced (make sure it will fit in your case!). If willing to take the time to tweak, you will be rewarded with a monster PC. Suggest weighing Sandy/Ivy Bridge vs this if considering it, to determine which will fit your needs the best. If you decide on this CPU, you will not be disappointed.

Pros: Direct X11 compatible, good for HTPC or business/non-gamer PC, small and low power, quiet. May be able to play some games if the game is on low settings or is older. One Gig of video ram (although DDR3).

Cons: At regular price it is overpriced, although it does beat an 8400GS (or the like) for an HTPC, etc.

Overall Review: At about 35ish it's a decent card for what it's designed for. At 55, there are better options, even if you have to spend a few more bucks. Benchmarks about like a 7900gs.