How to Compare Dual Processor & 2 Quad Processor Computers

Dual processors contain two cores, both of which work to carry out software instructions. Computers with two quad processors have two entirely separate processors, each of which has four cores, for a total of eight.

Speed

Clock rate and cores should be compared hand-in-hand. Clock rate is the number of times per second processors execute a software instruction. Cores determine how much the processor achieves when it works. According to Dell, cores complete one instruction at a time. Thus, it is possible for an eight-core system to perform faster than a two-core, even at a slower clock rate.

Software

Some programs take better advantage of multiple cores than others. These typically include video editing and 3D animation applications, or anything labeled as "threaded." PC World reports that, on programs not written specifically for quad-core processing, a dual-core processor can outperform a quad-core if it has a higher clock rate.

Heat

High speeds result in hotter running processors. This can necessitate large cooling systems that result in bulkier computers with more fan noise. Both the eight- and two-core systems have a TDP (thermal design power) rating. This is the amount of heat the cooling solution has to dissipate. The lower the TDP, the cooler the processor.

References

• Dell: Multi-Core Technology Overview
• PC World: Test: Intel's Quad-Core CPU Speeds Video
• Geeks3D: Tutorial: What is the Thermal Design Power (TDP)?

Resources

• TopBits.com: Multi-Core Technology