CPUs > From 2.5 GHz to 3.0 GHz CPUs > 300 GBP to 399 GBP

Advantages: There is no faster CPU - future proof
Disadvantages: Price

I was eagerly awaiting the release of the core2 architecture last year but decided to hold out to see if there would be any bargains around Christmas time. This was also the scheduled release time of the quad core version. As the time neared I began reading reviews and seeing what programs would utilise all 4 cores and found that the list was short. However, for an equivalent price I could have bought the X6800 chip which although has a higher core ...
...proofing I decided to get the quad core. Before installing this chip a bios update was needed in order for my motherboard to pick up the chip and would fail to boot without it. Windows however does not need to be reinstalled and picked up all 4 cores perfectly and went about balancing the load from my running programs around all cores. I ran a few in game benchmarks against a friend with the X6800 chip and my QX6700 was noticably slower. However, ... Read review

Advantages: Good clock speed, good video decoding and overall reliabilty
Disadvantages: Only 2 MB cache

The Core 2 Duo e6400 has many good features: It uses a 1066 MHZ FSB (front side bus) for a fast link on the motherboard. It 2 cores running at 2.13 GHZ The Processor is very EASY to overclock; just be careful. It is energy effecient and runs cool, unless you over clock Not as good features: 2 MB cache low compared to others in the range I found this processor to be excellent; it was extremely fast. With this processor there is no worry of ... Read review

Advantages: fast
Disadvantages: hard to think of one

This intel dual core processor with 2.4Ghz speed (total speed of 4.8Ghz) with a 2MB Cache can handle an awful lot of demanding programs runnning at once and for the amazingly low price its a very good processor. This processor is also compatable with 64 bit computing. It has an LGA775 Socket which is compatable with most motherboards (up to you to check these things) if you are looking to upgrade or build your own pc. If you are looking to buy a ... Read review

Advantages: Dual-core performance for true multi-tasking
Disadvantages: Price a little bit more, but makes sense.

...in today's mainstream notebook PCs AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ / 3.2 GHz processor has given me a sigh of relief. So what's it bringing with itself? AMD64 technology brings your notebook PC to life with dual-core performance, superior graphics, and wireless technologies from AMD's technology partners. It's everything you need for an enhanced Windows Vista™* experience you can take with you anywhere and coming with a price that makes sense. # Key features ...
...and wireless capabilities from AMD technology partners ~AMD PowerNow!™ technology for performance on demand and extended system battery life ~Enhanced Virus Protection** (EVP) helps protect against certain viruses, worms, and other malicious attacks ~HyperTransport™ technology boosts overall system agility so applications are more responsive and deliver incredible performance # Compatibility wise: AMD Athlon 64 X2 dual-core processors for notebook ... Read review

Advantages: Very fast, cheap
Disadvantages: need to have IT expereince

This intel dual core processor with 2.33Ghz speed (total speed of 4.6Ghz) with a 4MB Cache can handle an awful lot of demanding programs runnning at once, obviously it has its limits, but for the price its a very good processor. This processor is also compatable with 64 bit computing. It has an LGA775 Socket which is compatable with most of the new motherboards if you are looking to upgrade or build your own pc. If you are looking to buy a processor ... Read review