This week has seen both AMD and Intel make big strides with their processors, with Intel teasing information about its new 32nm processors, and AMD announcing an inexpensive quad core chip.
Earlier this week, Intel started posting videos about its upcoming line of 32nm processors, which are slated to be unveiled at the Intel Developer Forum (IDF) next week. These chips, which use the "Westmere" cores are expected to be very small dual-core processor dies, which will be paired with 45nm integrated graphics to create the "Arrandale" mobile chip and the "Clarkdale" desktop one. ExtremeTech has a preview of IDF currently on the site.
I expect we won't see Arrandale systems until later this year, but the technology is actually quite amazing, and I'm certainly interesting in hearing more about them.
Although AMD is a bit behind on process technology - it released its first 45nm chips early this year - it is instead focusing on value, today introducing new Quad-core processors that start at less than $100. The Athlon II X4 620 runs at 2.6 GHz and has a list price of $99, while the 2.8GHx Athlon II 630 lists at $129. These chips, part of the "Propus" line have 2 MB of Level 2 cache per core, and a total desktop power of 95 watts.
What this means is that you can get a quad-core chip for less than $100, and when paired with the company's new 785 chipset, should mean for much less expensive quad-core systems. On Intel's current price list, its lowest-price Core 2 Quad chip is the 2.33GHz Core 2 Quad with 4 MB of Level 2 cache at $163. (All processor prices are typically quoted for a quantity of 1000.)
Whether you really want a quad-core desktop depends on your application, of course. For running a single application, you can find a faster dual-core system at the same price and thus get better performance in most cases. For high-end gaming, you want a system with discrete graphics. But for lots of multitasking, a quad-core system is often the right choice, and these new AMD systems should perform well at that. These won't be the fastest systems on the market, but they seem to offer good price/performance. (For more details, here are reviews from Techware Labs and Legit Reviews.
For more of Michael Miller's take on the world of Tech, read his blog, Forward Thinking.
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