You wouldn't buy a 1.1GHz processor to run Internet Explorer would you? Of course not, that's why we subject each processor (and reviewer) to hours of Quake III testing using Demo001. In order to minimize the pain our video cards must endure, we use Normal Quality settings with v-sync off. Additionally, we have added Windows 2000 tests, and sound on/sound off scores so you can make your own comparisons.

Low resolution testing allows AMD's latest 1.1GHz beast to stretch its feet, since the GeForce 2 isn't being stressed. Although the Athlon only has a 33MHz disadvantage, it still trails by more than 3fps (please note the sarcastic tone, that is only two percent). As the resolution scales upwards, the Pentium III maintains its “commanding” lead; ending at 1600x1200, where the GeForce 2 card really doesn't care which processor is in the system. Since performance is so similar, price and stability will likely carry the most bearing for your processor-purchasing decision.