The question is which Dual-Core 2MB L2 Cache processor gives you the best bang for your buck? Is it the 2.7 GHz AMD Athlon64 X2 4400+ or is it the 4.2GHz Intel Pentium D 820? Initially there was just 600MHz favoring the Intel processor and it was still slower. Now there is a staggering 1.5GHz favoring the Intel processor, surely this kind of gain has to help Intel get over the line before AMD. Well let's move on and find out.

The Athlon 64 X2 3800+ and 4200+ processors were not used in this comparison for the simple reason that they only feature a total L2 Cache of 1MB. Overclocking the Athlon 64 X2 4400+ actually made this processor 300MHz faster than the $700 X2 4800+. The overclocked Pentium D 820 was 1000MHz faster than the $390 Pentium D 840 processor. Overclocking these processors represent an excellent value for power users as they can surpass the power of the most high-end desktop processors with a reasonably affordable processor.

Purchasing an Intel dual-core Pentium D processor is easy, you simply buy which ever model you can afford. For overclockers I recommend the Pentium D 820 as it offers exceptionally good value. Buying a dual-core AMD processor is a little trickier as you need to decide what you want (2MB or 1MB L2 Cache), particularly if you plan to overclock. For those building a gaming system and are not fussed about overclocking then the 3800+ will be ideal. However, overclockers should really consider purchasing the full 2MB L2 Cache version (4400+/4800+) as they will deliver the best performance, and may prove to be a better long-term investment.

At the end of the day both Intel and AMD offer great dual-core processors. Clearly the AMD products are faster but they also carry a high price premium over Intel's. Those seeking ultimate power and are willing to get it at any cost will surely pick up an AMD Athlon64 X2 4400+ or 4800+ processor. Alternatively if you are restricted to a reasonable budget then I would highly recommend an Intel Pentium D processor, preferably the 820 model. With a retail price tag under $230 this processor is seriously a good value.

Yes it is. I will definitely upgrade this year, but it depends who will offer the best components on a dual cpu board.

Maybe I will get a Conroe based Mac :)

So they realized noone was willing to pay top dollar for the Pentium Ds? They really dropped the floor out from under those things. Almost seems too cheap. Wonder how much faster the CORE shiz will be. PC industry is CRAZY right now!