AMD vs. Intel - which one????

[orioles119]

I'm looking at a laptop for Christmas and I can't decide between AMD or Intel. I have always been an Intel person, because I've never had AMD. I've been doing research, whether it be in store asking questions or looking up information on the internet and now I ask the masses - AMD or Intel?

I've seen mixed reviews on both. CNET praises AMD vs. Intel in a core processor fight. Another source praises Intel.

Here's what I'm basically looking for...

A laptop that I can transfer my iTunes to and that is what the laptop will be basically for - that and surfing wirelessly. Of course, I'll have to deal with Vista, as I've discovered that a Mac is just to expensive, so I don't want any Mac fanboys to come along (no offense, I'm sticking to Windows I think).

So...

Which processor? Thanks for those who respond.

[Jimmy The Greek]

I'm looking at a laptop for Christmas and I can't decide between AMD or Intel. I have always been an Intel person, because I've never had AMD. I've been doing research, whether it be in store asking questions or looking up information on the internet and now I ask the masses - AMD or Intel?

I've seen mixed reviews on both. CNET praises AMD vs. Intel in a core processor fight. Another source praises Intel.

Here's what I'm basically looking for...

A laptop that I can transfer my iTunes to and that is what the laptop will be basically for - that and surfing wirelessly. Of course, I'll have to deal with Vista, as I've discovered that a Mac is just to expensive, so I don't want any Mac fanboys to come along (no offense, I'm sticking to Windows I think).

So...

Which processor? Thanks for those who respond.

To be honest, if all you need the computer for is surfing the web and using iTunes, then your choice of processor is not going to be much of an issue. I have had plenty of experience with both brands - my last computer used an Athlon 3200 XP, and my current one uses a Core2Duo 6300. I have never had processor-related trouble with either, and both have had plenty of processing power for whatever needs I have had. Both brands are excellent in terms of reliability.

If you were planning on using raw power on your computer, I'd suggest an Intel, as I really think their dual cores are much better and more cost-efficient than AMD's. But honestly, I'd focus on other features when picking the computer out, and make your choice based on those.

I know I didn't exactly give you a direct answer, but I hope this helps :p I know how daunting buying a computer (or any type of electronic, for that matter!) can be, since for as much as they cost, you want to make sure you're getting your money's worth.

[The Wedge]

Not sure how it is now, but a few years ago when I built my machine, the only real difference was that the AMD ran hotter, therefore needed more cooling and therefore was a much louder sounding machine.

[Elbren]

It used to be that Intel could never match AMD, but that all changed when Intel released their Core 2 Duo chip sets. Pretty sure that AMD has yet to release anything that matches it, so if you're looking for pure processing power, the Core 2 Extreme or the Core 2 Quad is the processor to go with.

Of course that's a "price is no option" type answer. I know the Core 2 Extreme goes for around $1000 but I'm not sure what the Core 2 Quad costs. I haven't checked in awhile, but I think AMD's FX-74 chips run around $300 - $400. It may not be as fast, but you can't argue with getting around 70% of the power for 2 - 3 times less money.

[scOtt]

I've had both, and had no problems with either. My last was an AMD 1600+. Was the fastest at the time, for the money. I just got a Core2 duo (905). The barebones kit, chip, motherboard and a gig of RAM was only about $300. It's lightning fast (to me) but then my old one was 7 years old.

[McLovin]

I know the Core 2 Extreme goes for around $1000 but I'm not sure what the Core 2 Quad costs. I haven't checked in awhile, but I think AMD's FX-74 chips run around $300 - $400. It may not be as fast, but you can't argue with getting around 70% of the power for 2 - 3 times less money.
He said 'laptop'...

I'm AMD loyal to the bone, but if I were shopping for a laptop today, I would go with Intel. AMD has fallen far behind in the race...