AMD has the Duron 1.1 GHz listed as selling for $103 in quantity, compared to $89 for the Duron 1 GHz and $74 for the Duron 950. Remember that AMD processors are regularly found at a "street price" below their official retail pricing. Currently, the Duron 950 has a street price of $53, while the Duron 1 GHz checks in at $72. Using this data, we can estimate that Duron 1.1 GHz street prices may range anywhere from $85 to $90.
AMD is currently using a price-matching format with their Duron 1 GHz, which is at the exact same price point as the Athlon 1 GHz. Athlon 1.1 GHz prices are in the $83 range, so that may be the eventual target for the Duron 1.1 GHz as well. The only problem with this scenario is that the Athlon is a higher performing CPU, when both are compared at the same clock rate.
Of course, this only refers to a pure CPU price comparison and not one based on available platforms. Product positioning also has a great deal to do with price and as an entry-level processor, the Duron 1.1 GHz may find its way into more lower-priced systems than the Athlon 1.1 GHz CPU. Systems using integrated chipsets and on-board video will likely be paired with Duron processors, while more robust configurations will likely remain the home of the Athlon. This means that although Duron prices may be similar those of a similar-speed Athlon, the system prices will likely be lower for an entry-level Duron PC.
So in terms of an overall value rating, the Duron is still not in the Athlon's class for a performance CPU upgrade, though its SSE-compatibility does have its advantages. If the prices can come down a bit to a point lower than a comparable Athlon, then this rating could easily change. As for new, entry-level systems, the Duron 1.1 GHz represents a great buy. With the new 3DNow! Professional instruction set and a value position, the Duron would make a great fit for a low-cost home PC or gaming box.
After surprising us with the new Duron 1 GHz and its improved core, AMD has made another bold move by following that up with the Duron 1.1 GHz. These rapid speed increases are great news for value buyers, as the Duron 1.1 GHz is likely to find itself into a great deal of low-priced systems. For new system buyers, this translates into faster performance and a better feature set, all at a very attractive price. If you are looking to buy a new Duron system, we recommend the newer models, especially since the addition of SSE-compatible instruction set makes them more future-proof. Those looking to upgrade their current systems to the 1.1 GHz Duron might want to wait a bit for prices to equalize, or take a peek at a mid-range Athlon instead.
Vince Freeman
Editor
Highs:
- SSE and Data Prefetch
- Produces less heat than Athlon
- Duron advances into Athlon speeds
Lows:
- 1.75V core voltage?
- Price levels too close to Athlon
- Still uses the 200 MHz system bus