Do you think that speding extra money for a duo core processor is worth the money?

Question

Is this feature overhyed sales gimmick?

I have heard some people say that many things are not even programmed to accept dual core and that it is only good if you are doing heavy applications (video games) or multi tasking, which I dont really do , except when I run spyware checks. Any thoughts otherwise about this ?

Thanks.

Answer 1

It is most certainly not a gimmick.

True, most applications right now are only single thread, thus meanig they will only run on one core, but nowadays it's all about future proofing. One 1.6Ghz Core2Duo processor is the equiv of a 3.2 P4, so it's like running two P4's in unison. Not only are they fast anyway, they are phenonenal overclockers. Anyone can do this, you don't need a soldering iron or anything like that, to dispell any myths.
It can be done by just changing a few number in your BIOS, or in simpler terms, F2 when your computer is loading up. 1.6 can easily be turned into a 2.8, maybe even 3 depending on your computer, so even if your only using single threaded applications, it should be much faster than the best single core processor.

Answer 2

Here's the facts: previously, computer processor speeds have increased so that programs could do more in less time. We recently hit an upper limit with this. So now, we move on to multiple processors (or cores). A program will only run better when multiple CPUs / cores are present if it is programmed to use multiple CPUs / cores. Many applications today aren't. However, you can run different programs on different cores. So for example, Windows and Antivirus could run on one core, and all the rest of your apps on another. That would improve performance. I think it's worth getting a dual core now, as they become the norm more programs will target them for greater efficiency. Even when only using one core, the processors are still nice.

Answer 3

Let's be clear - dual core is not 2 x the processing power but it will be better than a single equivalent processor in isolation.

Programs do have to be written to take advantage of multi-core but the fact the the OS can already take advantage of it will help performance immensely.

BTW - if you are using Windows, you're already multi-tasking though you may not realise it.

Answer 4

if your not planning on doing any processor heavy work such as video editing then either dont bother with a dual core ,wait til the price comes down or go for one of the amd 64 chips ,even the sempron 2800 can handle most day to day tasks with ease ,these new chips are for heavy duty gamers and video buffs in mind ,most home pcs dont really need them ,some will say they make streaming movies better ,but i run two pcs one with a amd 3200 one with a 2800 both do all the needed stuff with ease ..save your money

Answer 5

He means dual processors, not dual core. In a dual core processor (or coreDUO) the processor handles the load balancing. Yes it is well worth the money to get a dual core processor.

Answer 6

They are well worth the extra money.

Answer 7

Yes it is worth it
Whatever you buy dont get a celeron, they are too slow.