Is a Intel Pentum D (2.8 ghz) better than an Intel Core 2 Duo (1.8 ghz)?

Question

The computer with the Core 2 Duo is $250 more, but it also has 2 times the DDR2 and a 320 gb vs. a 250 gb hard drive. I really don't need 2 GB of memory or a 320 GB hard drive though. Which one would be a better buy?

These are the links to both computers:

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Gateway-Desktop-PC-GT5404/sem/rpsm/oid/170745/catOid/-12962/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Gateway-Desktop-PC-GT5412/sem/rpsm/oid/170741/catOid/-12962/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Why is the Core 2 Duo slower?
Does it mean 1.8 ghz per processor, because it has 2 put together?

Answer 1

You're right that the Core 2 Duo has two processor cores (which act as two 'virtual' processors inside one physical processor) running at 1.8 Ghz. The Pentium D has the same thing going on though, each running at 2.8.

The Core 2 Duo is the newer (and better, according to benchmarks) of the two. The Pentium D was Intel's first (consumer) dual-core processor. Then came the Core Duo, then the Core 2 Duo.

Different speeds mean different things to different processors, so 2.8 for the D might be faster, slower, or about the same in terms of some benchmarks with the Core 2 Duo. Long story short, the Core 2 Duo is Intel's third consumer effort with two cores and that alone is a great reason to buy it, even with the extra cost.

No use in buying technology outdated by three release generations. And you may not need 2 gigs or memory or a big ol' hard drive right now, but I say splurge for the hotter system b/c it will be a MUCH more capable system down the line w/ out needing the same upgrade attention as the other system.

EDIT: I just noticed the systems you're looking at both ship with Windows Vista-- GET THE CORE 2 DUO W/ THE BEEFIER SPECS, BY ALL MEANS! The other system will not run Vista to your liking.

P.S. I also live in Chicago... and like LSD :P

Answer 2

Core2Duo uses a different internal architecture with larger registers & way more onboard cache.
It does't need to clock as fast as the "D" series to outperform them.

Go for the Core2Duo.

regards,
Philip T

Answer 3

core2duo is better ...