Intel Core 2 Duo Performance Update
Summary and Conclusion
Performance Summary: Intel's upcoming Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Extreme processors outpaced an Athlon 64 FX-60 overclocked to 2.8GHz in every benchmark we were able to run. We will hold off from drawing any definitive performance conclusions, however, until we're able to configure a Core 2 Duo powered machine ourselves.
Intel held this event in New York City for a few reasons. First, they wanted to detail some of the specific architectural changes in Conroe that resulted in such a dramatic performance boost over the Netburst architecture. They also wanted to give us a some information regarding how Conroe and its mobile variant have progressed over the last few months since we were first exposed to the CPU at IDF. Intel's message was that the silicon is very much "alive" and running well. So well in fact, that they surprised us at one point during the presentation...
;)
;)
Conroe system left, Kentsfield right
The machine Intel was using for the presentation was actually powered by a Quad-Core Kentsfield CPU. Think of Kentsfield as a cross between Pressler and the Core 2 Duo. Two dual-core Conroe dies are connected together in the processor's packaging, for a grand total of four cores. Unfortunately, we can't disclose any other details regarding Kentsfield, but we can say its coming -- probably some time in 2007. And as you can see, a stock Intel cooler is enough to keep the CPU running reliably. We won't be waiting until 2007 for the Core 2 Duo though. Which is a good thing, because the kind of performance Intel's new platform brings with it, is exciting to say the least. Stay tuned to HotHardware for more Core 2 Duo news. We promise, it won't be long now.
