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April 20, 2012

 
 
Lee Koo Lee Koo
Community manager
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Intel vs. AMD CPU in desktop: Does it matter?

Dear CNET members,

Happy Friday! I missed you all last week. During my time off, our family took a quick road trip to the Sierras to play in the snow and our puppy, Chewy, behaved even better than my kids did. Go figure. Maybe the kids need some crate training also? Wink, wink.

Before we get started on this week's topic of AMD versus Intel, I wanted To bring your attention to our social contest. If you like CNET, you'll love this as we're showing appreciation for CNET fans who like us on Facebook. We're giving you a chance to win prizes that CNET editors love. The contest ends on April 22, so don't miss out on the opportunity.

Ahhh, the good old discussion topic of AMD vs. Intel! Never did I think the brand following for PC processors was still so strong within our community members. It's great to hear all your opinions and experiences!

Mel, our fellow member who presented this question, is wondering if he should go with an AMD or Intel processor for a new desktop and what the differences are between them. Based on the feedback, many members concluded that AMD would suit Mel's needs just fine. However, if Mel ever graduates to more intense needs, like heavy Video editing or intense graphics, which require more computing horse power, he may want to consider the alternative. There is a bit of reading to do, as our members have come through with a lot of suggestions and recommendations in the discussion. Good luck Mel. And if any of you want to chime in with your thoughts, the discussion thread is open for you to participate in, but please remember to keep it civil and respectful. Have a great weekend and thanks for your thoughts on this topic!

Cheers!
-Lee


 
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   TOPIC OF THE WEEK
  Q: Intel vs. AMD CPU in desktop: Does it matter?
I have to replace my 8-year-old Dell desktop soon, currently using Windows XP SP3. In my research I found, among other things, one thing that determines the price of a replacement machine is the PC processor. It is the apparent difference in cost between the AMD and the INTEL i3, i4,or i5. The price difference seems to be about $100 or more if I look at Intel i4 or i5. (I hope I didn't goof on the Intel product numbers). For my general household use with no gaming, only light photo work, e-mail, Web surfing, and use of Microsoft Office, will it matter much which I processor I buy? A computer with the AMD processer is a lot cheaper. Will it be similar or would I see a great difference between using AMD versus Intel. When do processor brands and speed make a difference? Your explanation and thoughts are appreciated.

   -- Submitted by: Mel F.
  A: Featured member solutions
 
"Intel vs. AMD - Remember it's all Zeros and "
-- Submitted by: High Desert Charlie
"It STILL boils down to which is better Chevy vs. Ford"
-- Submitted by: Glenn51
"Intel vs. AMD - it's really up to you! "
-- Submitted by: engineer03038
"AMD will be just fine."
-- Submitted by: letgoofmyears
"AMD vs. Intel"
-- Submitted by: Wolfie2k5
 
Read all member contributions
  Thanks to all who contributed!
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