Quake 4 and OC results

Intel Core2 stock speeds

Intel Core2 overclocked

Based on today’s preliminary Core2 Duo benchmarks, it looks like Intel’s next-generation Core 2 CPUs will be turning in incredible performance once they hit retail. The Core2 Duo E6600 chip turned in very impressive results in SiSoft Sandra’s multimedia tests, most likely thanks to the enhancements Intel has incorporated into Core2’s SSE engine such as its 128-bit registers. The Athlon 64 FX did hold its own in the memory bandwidth tests, thanks most likely to its integrated memory controller. In real world usage the Core2 system ran Quake 4 faster than the Athlon 64 FX we tested, in some cases by as much as 9%. Looking over the results, you can’t help but be impressed by Core2’s performance results.

The real question though will be how easily Intel can produce Core2 processors and what the pricing will be. If Intel prices Core2 aggressively and can keep up with demand, it could be one of the most exciting new products from the company. Fortunately we won’t have to wait long for answers.

Stay tuned to FS for more Computex coverage!