Which is better?

[Thehebrewhammer]

Hi, I'm looking to buy a new computer. I'm looking to spend about 700$ for one (canadian). I'd like to use this computer for video editing. My two best options for my price range are:

Refurbished Debranded Compaq Computer:
Processer: P4 3.0 Ghz processer
Motherboard: Compaq Motherboard (only 3 pci slots / 2 ram slots/ 0 Agp slots)
Ram: 512 megs ddr ram
Hard Drive: 120 gb
Graphics card: 128 mb integrated compaq graphics
Compaq Case

and

Clone:
Processer: AMD 64 2800+
Motherboard: MSI K8V
Ram: 512mb ddr
Hard Drive: 120gb
Graphics card: 128mb ati radeon 9200se
*built in firewire port (much faster than pci)
ATX midtower

Both computers have a dvd burner and a network card.

I've also been informed, the compaq motherboard is only upgradable through compaq.


Also, I have a few questions about AMD:

Is it true you can have 2 processors? If so, do they need to be the same?

Is AMD 64 like P4 HT?

Would an AMD 64 2800+ run at 2.8 ghz?

Thanks for your time and any answers you may give me.

-The hebrew hammer

[nelson133]

This is another area of strong opinions, but I would go with the AMD. I use a couple of them (2400+ and 2800+) and am satisfied, neither is a 64.
Most tests show the AMD 64's to have a speed advantage over the 32 bit Pentiums. However I'm willing to bet that the difference in speed would be hard to notice. The big difference to me is the integrated video card, it will drag down system preformance by using system ram for graphics. A separate card is much better. I would suggest that you try to get 1 gig of ram as that will also give a preformance boost when doing video processing, which gives any system a workout. Also, if you are going to do any capturing, you may find that 120 gig hard drive feels too small.
Nyah Levi

[budz]

none of the above. build your own pc
i wouldn't purchase a refurbished pc if someone paid me to

[gitreel]

I agree with budz. Build your own system, but I would make you buy amd if I were you.

Amd - Imo is the only way to go.