AMD, Intel processors offer slightly different values for laptop buyers

Friday, November 06, 2009

The two major manufacturers of CPUs, Advanced Micro Devices and Intel, differ subtly in performance in various areas, which should be a consideration for prospective purchasers of PCs.

One major myth about PC performance is that the CPU is the only factor determining the speed at which the computer performs operations. RAM, hard drive access speed and display drivers are all important factors as well. However, the CPU is undeniably the largest single determinant of PC speed. Faster processors are integral to improved performance - and can command a premium price.

Tests performed by Computer World writer Frank J. Ohlhorst earlier this fall indicated that AMD's processors tended to offer more bang for the buck at the lower end of the consumer spectrum, as well as generally stronger graphics processing performance. Intel, though slightly more expensive, tended to have better high-end offerings and can outperform AMD in graphics when used in combination with an advanced display adapter.

Laptop users have a wide variety of new options, as portables of all sizes with chipsets from both manufacturers are flooding the market after the release of Windows 7.