Pentium Vs. Celeron
Comparing Pentium and Celeron processors involves examining the different processor architecture, features and prices, as well as other considerations that impact computer needs. Consumers that are researching the features and capabilities of these two Intel processors should have a basic understanding of the terms used to describe the units. Combining an understanding of processor performance characteristics with the needs of the software that will be run on the computer, empowers consumers by enabling them to conduct an accurate comparison.
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Facts
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Pentium and Celeron are families of processors both manufactured by Intel. Celeron processors tend to be less expensive because they are designed to meet the needs of a broad consumer base, whereas Pentium processors generally have more capability to meet the needs of a more narrow consumer base. To conduct a fair comparison, it is useful to focus on architecture and to use terms like "faster/slower," "larger/smaller" and "less/more expensive" rather than "better/worse." Using objective terms leads to a comparison that is fair and clear.
Processor Features
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In his book "A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC," Jean Andrews, Ph.D. describes processor architecture and presents key characteristics that can be used for an effective comparison such as frequency or speed, FSB, Cache size and data path size. Using these characteristics, it is fairly simple to conduct an effective side-by-side comparison of the two processor families. The data for the comparison is provided by Intel and broken out by processor family.
Processor Architecture
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The architecture used to manufacture Celeron processors tends to be less robust than for its Pentium counterpart. Of the launched Celeron units, speeds range from 900 MHz to 2.4 GHz. Pentium units that have been launched and are not at the end of their product life cycle provide greater speeds ranging from 1.6 GHz to 2.93 GHz. The unit speeds are important, but it is also important to determine the FSB or Front Side Bus speed because that location is a data bottleneck. FSB speeds for the Celeron processors range from 100 MHz to 800 MHz, while Pentium speeds are greater at 800 MHz to 1066 MHz.
Costs
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Intel markets the Celeron processor for average users that don't require exceptional power or speed. Celeron processors easily run word processors, spreadsheets and Internet browsers. Consumers can often find less expensive Celeron-powered computers than those built on Pentium technology. With the Pentium processor comes a host of additional requirements made necessary by the increased speed. However, consumers needing that additional power will enjoy the enhanced capabilities provided by Pentium.
Considerations
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Consumers can make good choices without having to spend hours researching or relying on the advice of someone else. Investing 20 minutes studying the differences between Pentium and Celeron processors is a useful time expenditure. With each additional piece of information you gather, you become more capable of assessing the differences for yourself, and ultimately, making the right choice for your needs.
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