What is the difference between an 'Intel Centrino Core 2 Duo' and an 'Intel Core 2 Duo'?

Question

The only difference is that the Intel Centrino is a pre-figured combination of a wireless card and other hardware for laptops, is that right?

So which would be better...say for example, I'm deciding between a Dell laptop with a Core 2 Duo, or a HP laptop with a Centrino Core 2 Duo?

Are laptops with the Centrino name usually cheaper, since the main hardware is Intel's? And would that mean it's quality isn't as good?

Answer 1

As you have already figured out, they are the same processor, so there is no difference there. To qualify for the Centrion lable, a laptop has to have a specific type of processor, chipset, ane wireless card. The HP has all three, which is why it can carry the Centrino label. The Dell has the processor and chipset, but by default it has a Dell wireless card, which is why it doesn't carry the Centrino label. It can be configured with the Intel wireless card however.

Answer 2

You are right.

That is the only difference.

Personally, I trust Intel components more than I do Dells.

For the amount of computers out there, I see many more Dell laptop's in for service than the others.

Usually, the Centrino name costs a bit more, but really any Core 2 Duo configuration will be very good.

Answer 3

They are exactly the same CPU. Centrino is an intel brand name used to describe the entire system. All of the new generation of Santa Rosa chips and systems are Centrino.

http://www.hardcoreware.net/intel-launches-centrino-duo-mobile-platform-santa-rosa-has-arrived/

Intel launches Centrino Duo mobile platform: Santa Rosa has arrived
May 9 Carl Nelson
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Today, Intel has announced the release of the latest revision of their Centrino mobile technology. Formerly codenamed “Santa Rosa”, several upgrades have been made available.