AMD processors question

I read somewhere that the AMD processors have faster access to memory (or something to that effect) than the Intels. If I never play games on my laptop and I just wanted the fastest speed possible using Windows (i.e. opening browsers, switching windows), would a higher end AMD processor actually be better than a higher end Intel processor?

Also, is there a noticeable difference between 2 GB memory and 4 GB memory with switching windows and the speed of opening programs such as IE and Office programs?

Will a better processor or more memory improve internet speed in any way?

KLA

 

4GB will be overkill for that use. The faster memory speeds of AMDs refers to the on-board memory controller. I doubt you'd see much difference in tasks such as you are referring to.

 

No, No and no. If AMD's have a larger RAM bandwidth for what you ask it will not matter. Also Intel CPU's seem to overcome any disadvantage created buy that slower transfer. C2D do better in benchmarks with equal clocks. Amount of RAM might make a difference, what OS do you have? Do you have IGP? And CPU's makes no diff on Internet!

Edit: not reffering to moon in any way, only original post!

 

AMD CPU's have the memory controller built onto the CPU itself whereas Intel CPU's all currently feature it in the system Northbridge.

AMD can attain better CPU to RAM latency (time it takes for each to talk to the other) resulting in better performance where this the limiting factor which is completely dependant on the program.

Overall neither is really better although currently Intel processors have better performance when comparred clock-to-clock with AMD processors (K8 vs Core Duo/Core 2 Duo).

4gb ram will pretty much only help in certain arragements (4x1GB dual rank modules) and only with certain OS's and programs. Differences will be exceedingly minimal overall.

 

If you're just talking about desktop and 2d app speed, then either an AMD or an Intel would be fine for you, and if you don't play games then 2GB would be absolutely fine, maybe even overkill depending on your OS.

 

Unless it's a dual core benchmark.

 

Not really. Consider that memory speed is measured in nanoseconds. Would you notice a few nanoseconds more or less?
It's just another factor in overall performance, in which Intel currently wins.

 

But of course it's all totally moot - the slowest part of your internet experience on any even semi-modern computer will be your connection, even if you have your own personal T3 line. And as for loading times for programs, HD speed will make more difference than anything else. For what you describe, just get the cheapest dual-core CPU you can find and a 7200RPM HD or even an SSD. Word, FireFox, and NotePad aren't going to use up more than 2GB of RAM or tax a Turion X2 or Core 2 Duo. Ever. Period.

 

For a laptop I would get at least a 65nm dual-core AMD Turion X2. This would perform similair to Intels proc.s. For the money you spend with the AMD get good wireless & a fast HDD.

 

Great informaton. Thanks guys.

IS

 

Benchmarking what? Some are more memory bandwidth intensive, some subsystem latency, and others fit completely in the L2 cache.. its really a toss-up until you know explicitly what function you are going to perform 98% of the time to get the higher performance one system offers over another and then you might as well be buying servers if you want that extra little bit one might offer over another..