Dual Core Vs. Core 2 Duo

They sound the same - dual core and core 2 duo - come from the same fabled stable of Intel and are widely used all over the world. What could possibly account for the difference between the two? While it may not seem so, there are a few points which will lay to rest the debate once and for all.

Dual Core and Core 2 Duo Comparison

How do the two processors rate in the bust-up? Let's check it out...

• Architecture
  Dual Core: The dual core is the older of the two and the architecture is a bit over the hill. The dual core sports two cores on one processor, but its older technology puts the dual core in a position of disadvantage.
  Core 2 Duo: The core 2 duo is the newer of the two and has two cores on the same processor too. But while the architecture sounds vaguely the same, it is a lot more advanced than the dual core processors.
  Winner: Core 2 Duo and its new, advanced architecture.
• Performance
  Dual Core: One of the best Intel processors no doubt, but lacks the bite when pitted against the core 2 duo.
  Core 2 Duo: This newer processor can be put on a pedestal and proclaimed to be much better. Beats the dual core in all benchmarking tests.
  Winner: Core 2 Duo for facilitating faster and better computer performance.
• Heat
  Dual Core: Dual core is a pretty cool processor but pales in comparison with the Core 2 Duo.
  Core 2 Duo: A winner again as the Core 2 Duo is one of the coolest processors around.
  Winner: Core 2 Duo.
• Power Consumption
  Dual Core: Extremely power efficient processor which has a maximum TDP of an astoundingly low 15 watts.
  Core 2 Duo: Power efficient enough, but the 65 watts of maximum TDP are nowhere as low as the dual core.
  Winner: Dual core for its efficient use of power.
• Clock Speeds
  Dual Core: Acceptable enough clock speeds of about 2.33 GHz for the best ones.
  Core 2 Duo: Rips the opposition with its 3.33 GHz clock speed available with the higher end ones.
  Winner: The Core 2 Duo without a shadow of a doubt.
• Price
  Dual Core: Old model processor, so available pretty cheap nowadays.
  Core 2 Duo: Comes at a premium and is often available at almost double the price of the dual core.
  Winner: The Dual Core is older, but cheaper.

The final verdict? Well, the Core 2 Duo is a better performer at a higher price. To choose between the two, you need to decide what you want to use your computer for, because ultimately it is the computer uses which finally define what you buy. A dual core processor is decent enough for routine tasks like MS Office applications and Internet browsing. The Core 2 Duo on the other hand, shows better functionality when it comes to bigger, more complicated programs.