Is the Core i5 2400 worth it?
 

I know it can't be overclocked, but if the processor can be obtained cheaply, would it be worth it? What about on a per performance per dollar basis?

Yes it is worth it. Its performance is only marginally slower than a 2500k that everyone wants. Also, it is overclockable, but only by 4 multipliers (400mhz). HWC LINK.

4 multi's + FSB for a hundred or so extra

Realistically speaking, how much oc should I be able to get? What will the top speed be?

I'm interested in this chip as well. Right now at ME its $170, compare to ~$220 of the 2500K, which is pretty good for me. Would you say that the higher clock (oc) of the K warrant its higher price? (the difference can be put into a better graphic card for example)

if you do folding or very cpu intensive tasks the unlocked processors usually can hit 4.4-4.5ghz but if you're not a number cruncher or editor you'll see no real world gain.

For gaming purpose, you'll not see the difference between the two cpus. And as stated in other posts, the overclocking is good only when it makes a difference in task you do regularly. Other than that, it is just wasted energy. So i really think that 50$ more in your gpu (or in a ssd) will have more impact in your day-to-day computing than going from 2400 to 2500k. That's only my two cents.

The HWC link I posted above they were able to get 4028mhz when only a single thread is running and 3816mhz on all cores as a max OC.

not worth it
you better off gettin the 2500k
you think running @ 106blk the board gonna be happy? 24/7

i went upto 108 blk while playin but no way i goin over 102 blk for 24/7 if i dont need to
and i keep my 2600k @ 100blk x50 24/7 wastin all that electricity lol