CPU

The old desktop computer that you bought way back in 1997 is getting excruciatingly slow with each passing day. What’s worse is that it cannot support most current cutting-edge software available. It’s definitely time to upgrade to a new system. Rather than buying a factory-installed branded desktop computer, you’ve decided to test your computer technical skills and built a new system from the ground up. Since the central processing unit is the "brain" of the system, it’s probably the one that needs the most attention. Let us help you choose the best CPU will ultimately make your system runs faster and smoother.

 

CPU Buying Guide

1) Clock Speed

This refers to the number of times a microprocessor can perform a basic function per second, usually expressed in MHz or GHz. It is always thought that the higher the clock speed, the faster the system will perform hence Intel & AMD will always boasts of having the fastest clock speed to entice buyers. This is only partly true as clock speed is only one criteria in the overall performance of a CPU.

2) L1 & L2 Cache Memory

Microprocessors have an internal memory called cache memory that it can rely upon to retrieve frequently used data instantaneously when performing certain functions. If the data is not available, then it will retrieve them from outside memory. L1 cache is the primary cache that is closest to the microprocessor’s core logic while L2 cache (secondary) is sandwiched between L1 and main memory. The larger the caches, the more data will be in it and hence faster data retrieval when the need arises.

3) Front-Side Bus (FSB)

It’s the interface between the microprocessor with the memory and generally refers to the speed at which data are sent between the CPU and the system memory. The faster the FSB, the faster is the data transfer which means higher performance. The speed of FSB depends on the processor, motherboard chipset as well as the system clock. It is now common to have FSB of 533 MHz and 1066 MHz on Intel Core Duo & Core 2 Duo respectively while having FSB of 400 MHz and 800 MHz on AMD XP and AMD64 respectively.

 

CPU Reviews & Ratings

We found the best CPU reviews from AnandTech, CNET, ITReviews, LegitReviews, PC World, PCMag and TomsHardware. Expert reviewers there reviewed some of the best CPU models from 2 established makers AMD and Intel. CPU ratings based on efficiency, speed and system performance determines the best CPU in their class.

Best CPU (PC)

CPU Reviews #1: Firing on all cylinders with unrivalled CPU reviews from reviewers and users is the best rated Intel E8400 3.0 GHz FSB 1333 MHz L2-6 MB Socket 775 CPU Core 2 Duo Processor. For your next generation desktop computing needs, you can rely on this Intel CPU to provide the much needed firepower. This best CPU from Intel features Intel Wide Dynamic Execution, Intelligent Power Capability, Smart Memory Access, Advanced Smart Cache & Advanced Digital Media Boost for total efficiency and extreme power in system performance to handle complex and task-demanding applications with ease. Key specifications: 3.0 GHz dual-core processor speed, 6 MB L2 Cache, 1333 MHz Front Side Bus.

Best CPU (Gaming)

CPU Reviews #2: Boasting extreme raw power with unmatched CPU reviews from experts and gamers is the best rated Intel Core 2 Extreme Quad-Core 3.0 GHz QX9650 Processor. If you expect nothing but the best in gaming performance, let this Intel CPU lead the way. Based on cutting-edge processor technology, what you’ll get from this best Intel CPU is mind-blowing and life-like realism when playing games. Key specifications: 3.0 GHz Quad-core processor speed, 12 MB L2 cache, 1333 MHz Front Side Bus.

Resources: Central Processing Unit (Wikipedia)