Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 Processor Review - Page 11

Benchmark Analysis

Like previous quad core benchmarking, the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 offered differing performance levels based on the type of software used. In multi-threaded or multi-core processor and application tests, the quad core architecture can make full use of its resources, and the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 regularly set new performance records in this area. Memory bandwidth and latency testing continues to be a weak link for the Intel processor lineup, as the integrated memory controller found in Athlon 64 FX and X2 processors has the definite performance advantage. Most games are still single-threaded, and even for those with multi-threaded enhancements, the reliance on the video card still results in limited real-world improvements. This is due to change, as more multi-threaded from-the-ground-up games appear, but that day is still over the horizon. That said, the 2.93 GHz clock speed of the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 ensures that gamers will not take a back seat to the fastest dual core processors.

Value

When it comes to Core 2 Extreme processors, the term "value" is simply not a consideration. Hardware enthusiasts pay top dollar for the absolute fastest CPU on the market, and in this case, the Core 2 Extreme QX6800 certainly delivers. Intel states the processor is currently available at a cost of $1,199, but retail prices are slightly higher, and will probably not equalize until quite a few retailers get their hands on it. The Intel processor price list includes the Core 2 Extreme QX6700 ($970=$1,050), Core 2 Extreme X6800 ($925-$1,025), Core 2 Quad Q6600 ($750-$850), and Core 2 Duo E6700 ($500-$540). AMD has recently dropped prices, so the Athlon 64 6000+ ($240-$260), Athlon 64 X2 5600+ ($185-$210) and Athlon 64 5200+ ($175-$190) might not rank as high in performance, but provide value ratings that are off the charts.

* Please note that these prices were taken at the time of review and are not meant to reflect long-term trends.

Conclusion

The Core 2 Extreme QX6800 finally answers the challenge of the Core 2 Extreme X6800, and provides 2.93 GHz of quad core power. This allows enthusiast buyers to have it all, high-end multi-core processing for desktop and media tasks, while the 2.93 GHz clock speed makes sure you won't give up anything to a dual core processor, even while gaming. The price is certainly high, but Intel is catering to a different type of market, where pinching pennies is never a prime consideration. The Core 2 Extreme QX6800 is definitely not for everyone, but with this target buyer in mind, Intel has certainly hit the mark.

Pros:

• Fastest Desktop Processor
• 2.93 GHz Quad Core
• LGA775 Upgrade Compatible

Cons:

• Very Expensive
• Just a Speed Bump
• Penryn on the way

Ratings: