Choosing an Intel chipset?

[rct2guy]

I'm helping a friend of mine build a computer, and I'm unsure exactly how to choose what chipset I want to buy for him. Previously, I just sort of looked at each of my available motherboard options, and chose which one had the requirements I was looking for. However, my friend is on a budget, so I feel like buying a specific chipset might be a better, cheaper option (instead of buying one with the ports that he wants, but with other ports he doesn't need).

Is there an easy way to compare the different chipsets? The Wikipedia article is somewhat useful, but also seems to have some inconsistancies (I own a Z68 motherboard with USB 3.0 support, something the Wikipedia article doesn't list). Then again, perhaps this is normal for motherboards (which is why I'm asking for advice).

To elaborate on my friend's preferences, he has no need for any integrated graphics, and would be interested in future-proofing (SATA III, USB 3, PCI-e 3), if the price is right. He'll be buying an Ivy Bridge LGA 1155. I can help provide any other details, if required.

 

[essenbe]

If he is buying an Ivy bridge, he will have to go Z68 Gen 3 or z77. The board itself does not have graphics on it, the CPU does. But, there really is no such thing as future proofing. No matter what you chose, a newer CPU and chipset will be out within 6 months. That being said, I believe the Z77 boards are the closest thing to it.

 

[pparks1]

I was looking a bit at an Ivy Bridge setup and I was looking at Z77 chipsets myself. I don't understand the term future proof, it really makes no sense.