Dual core shoot-out: Intel versus AMD

Intel’s dual core processors can only be used with newer motherboards: specifically, the Pentium D requires the Intel 945 or 955 chipets, while the Pentium EE 840 is restricted to motherboards with the 955 chipset. The situation with AMD’s dual core chips is simpler, as AMD uses the existing Socket 939 architecture. However, not every Socket 939 motherboard is automatically dual-core-compatible, and a BIOS update may be needed before a board correctly recognises the CPU’s two cores.

Whether you are an AMD diehard or an Intel diehard, these numbers cannot be denied. Even though the Pentium D costs less than the equivelent X2, the performance differential may not be worth it. It’s interesting to note that the X2 3800+ ($310~) outperforms the Pentium EE ($1000~) in many tests. Even though X2 CPU’s cost more than their Intel competitors, the AMD motherboards usually cost about $100 less, so it evens itself out. Check out the in-depth comparisons over at ZD Net.