I5 v i7 processors

Johnmcl7

The problem is there's a lot of different i5's and i7's and the performance difference between the two processor types varies on each of the different lines.

Frequently the i7's don't offer large performance improvements for the cost although it depends on the application, some can take advantage of high core counts and hyperthreading whereas some don't.

John

almillar

Whatever you do between i5 and i7, I think the generation makes the most difference. Smaller die, less heat, more transistors, faster (or at least more efficient) processing. As in, don't be tempted by an old i7 vs a new i5.
For gaming, unless you know that the games you're using specifically take advantage of the features listed above, go for the cheaper i5, as fast as you can afford. And of course, you'll end up spending at least as much on a graphics card!

Cisco001

If you have a fix budget, for gaming purpose

i5 + higher end GPU > i7 + midrange GPU

leeroy2009

cant go wrong with a i5 4670k