The tri-cores are still more expensive than quads

Apr 18, 2008 07:39 GMT  ·  By

Advanced Micro Devices' tri-core processors are now available in a series of desktop computers from Hewlett-Packard, Gateway and eMachines. Despite the fact that the tri-core processors are more expensive than AMD's quad-cores in the Phenom family, the newly released systems are low-cost, consumer-oriented offerings.

Gateway's GT5670 desktop computer comes with an X3 8400 processor running at 2.1 GHz, with 2MB of L3 cache pool. The X3 8400 is the first tri-core processor targeted at the mainstream market and allows users squeeze more performance than they would achieve using a dual-core chip.

The GT5670 also sports 3GB (PC2-5300 DDR2) of system memory, an Nvidia GeForce 6150 SE graphics card, as well as a 320GB Serial ATA II conventional hard disk drive with 8MB cache, spinning at 7,200 RPM. The complete system retails for $549 (monitor not included).

The next tri-core offering comes from system vendor Hewlett-Packard in the Pavilion a6430f series. The system is also powered by a Phenom X3 8400, while the rest of the hardware configuration is dangerously close to Gateway's model: 3GB PC2-5300 DDR2 memory, as well as Nvidia's GeForce 6150 SE graphics card. The only difference is the 640GB hard-disk drive drive, and the slightly larger price tag: $679.

Last, but not least, the eMachines J4509 also comes with an X3 8400 processor, paired with an AMD 780G chipset with integrated graphics. The system comes with a bundled 19-inch LCD display among other goodies and retails for a little below $1,000. However, eMachines' offering is only available on the Japanese retail market, which means that non-Japanese users will have to do without.

Anyway, there is a better alternative to eMachines' system, namely Alienware's Aurora gaming rig, that also sells for under $1,000, but comes with a fully-fledged Phenom quad-core chip in the B3 silicon stepping.