Core 2 Duo processors vs Pentium Dual Core Processors

I've read this article about Pentium Dual Cores vs. Core 2 Duo processors

http://expertester.wordpress.com/2008/05/30/core-2-duo-vs-pentium-dual-core/

In understand that this article talks about desktop processors, but do the same thing applies to laptop processors.

I'm looking for a laptop http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=390049

and I've come across many laptops having Pentium Dual Core processors. I have not considered them, but after reading the above mentioned article, I think, is it wise to spend extra money on C2D processors?

I hope some expert will be able to help me decide. does having extra 1 or 2 MB of cache really boosts performance or its just a marketing gimmicks.

 

What are you going to be using the computer for?

For general use like web browsing or typing up stuff, the Pentium Dual Core will be fine. Get the C2D if you are a hardcore gamer or if you are going to be encoding videos etc.

 

Is that article still valid? It's over a year old. I was under the impression that the newer processors are built to run cooler (smaller nm) and more efficient.

I'm no expert, those are just my thoughts.

 

Yes, it's still valid.

 

It's definitely an interesting read.

 

It's valid when you compare Pentium Dual-Cores to mainstream processors of the same generation. A T2410 is more or less the same as a T5750 with a slower FSB and half the cache as they're both Merom chips, but that T2410 will differ much more from a T6400 as the latter is a Penryn.

Newer processors are built on smaller processes and are therefore more energy efficient, but this applies to Intel's entire processor lineup, which makes the comparison valid.

At any rate, as Namaiki said, if you're just doing basic computing, even the slowest Pentium Dual-Core should suffice.

 

No Intel Dual Core CPUs can outperform Core 2 Duo CPUs. Best is not to make generalizations.

T4200 for example is a 2.0Ghz Dual Core CPU, 45nm with 1MB cache. It outperforms many Core 2 Duo CPUs: http://www.cpubenchmark.net/cpu_list.php

For the majority of people the T4200 will do everything fine and cause no slowdowns.

 

I think Core 2 Duo and Pentium are just marketing terms. While it's true that the Pentiums are of lower spec than the Core 2 Duo, they're essentially the same cpus, except the Pentiums usually have a slower FSB and half the cache size. These Pentiums are a good value, IMO. The 1MB or 2MB of cache in Pentiums are more than enough for most people.

 

I think you're right.