How Do I Compare Different Processors (Dual-Core? i3? Ghz?)

What does processor speed really mean?

Clock speed is the rate at which a processor executes a task and is measured in Gigahertz (GHz). Once, a higher number meant a faster processor, but advances in technology have made the processor chip more efficient so now they do more with less.

For example: An Intel Core i5 running at 3.46 GHz is not faster than an Intel Core i7 running at 3.06 GHz.

Comparing the speed of your old Pentium 4 CPU (an old scale which peaked at 3.4 GHz) with the speed of the current i series CPU’s (the new scale which started at 1.6 GHz) is a bit like comparing the Fahrenheit with Celsius temperature scales. The i series 1.6 GHs CPU runs faster and outperforms the old style P4 CPU. Hence your new i5 or i7 running at 3.0 GHz plus cannot be compared to any older generation Pentium 4 hardware.

Remember: Don’t compare computers based on clock speed unless they use the same line of processors – such as Intel core i3, i5 or i7

You may come across Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology while shopping for a new PC. This is one of the many exciting new features the Intel chip has built into core i5 and core i7 processors. It automatically speeds up the processor for a burst of heavy-duty activity when your PC needs extra performance. For example, a core i5 chip rated at a hefty 2.5 GHz can kick up to 3GHz on demand without stressing the processor or running the risk of overheating.

Back to New Computer Tips page

Our Stores

  • Cannington
    Address:
    1505 Albany Hwy
    Cannington,
    WA, 6107

    Phone:
    (08) 9258 7733
  • Como
    Address:
    3/460 Canning Highway Como,
    WA, 6152

    Phone:
    (08) 9313 0000
  • Joondalup
    Address:
    24 Mercer La Joondalup,
    WA, 6027

    Phone:
    (08) 9301 4655
  • Morley
    Address:
    2/135 Russell Street Morley,
    WA, 6062

    Phone:
    (08) 9276 8044
  • Osborne Park
    Address:
    15 Colray Avenue Osborne Park,
    WA, 6017

    Phone:
    (08) 9208 9222