What is faster and what should I get, L2 or L3 cache?

Well that's a big question. As far as AMD processors go. Ive found the units running only L2 cache to being as fast or faster than units running both L2 and L3. U wouldn't think that would be true but the fact is the L2 cache they use is WAY faster than the L3 cache. Now I cant say bout Intel, I'm pretty much an AMD homer. But Ive tried a dual core without L3 and a quad without L3 and both were nice processors. I tried a PhenomII 9750 with L3 cache and I found it slower to access ram and just not as snappy as the Athlons(X2 240 and X4 630) without... Thats my experience, hope it helped ya. There are reviews u can read and watch about the Reagor and Propus dies on the Athlons that say just what Ive said, check them out, sorry I don't have a link. Ive read the Black Unit Phenoms are really fast but they're also pricey so if u want budget like me I'd try and Athlon II w/o L3 I'm sure ull be happy.