How to Compare a Centrino & a Pentium

When shopping for a new laptop you may have noticed that some list a Pentium processor while others list a Centrino. The phrase "Pentium" exclusively refers to a specific type of processor. A laptop labeled as having "Centrino" technology however will have not only a different type of processor but also a specific wireless card. Both Pentium and Centrino processors have a range of processing capabilities depending on the specific model involved, so there are several different things to take into account with comparing the two technologies.

Instructions

1. Think about what the primary function of your laptop computer will be. Consider whether you are looking for a desktop replacement that will be used for processor intensive applications such as 3D games or if you want something that is primarily used for web browsing and editing word documents.

2. Check the actual processor speed of the Pentium or Centrino, as there is a range of speeds available. Choose a higher speed Pentium if you will be using processor intensive software or consider a lower speed Centrino if you don't need so much processing power.

3. Consider how often you will be transporting the laptop to different areas. The Centrino processors are specifically designed to be both smaller and more lightweight than their Pentium counterparts.

4. Check to see what kind of wireless router you use at your home or office. Pick a Centrino processor if the router uses the 802.11b wireless technology, as all Centrino laptops will use that wireless technology. Check to see what technology the laptop uses if you want a Pentium processor instead, as a laptop with a Pentium processor can use 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g.

5. Take note of how much money you have to spend on the laptop. Go with a Centrino if you have more money to spend or choose the Pentium if you are on a smaller budget, as laptops with a Pentium are typically lower priced.

6. Take into account how often you will be using the laptop away from an electrical outlet. Go with a Centrino laptop if you need a longer battery life, or choose a Pentium if you will nearly always be in range of a wall outlet for charging the computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that the range of processor speeds can change your decision on which processor to go with. For example if you need both heavy processing power and a lightweight laptop you can always choose a Centrino with a higher processor speed.

References

• Comparing Centrino and Pentium
• Pentium and Centrino Technology Comparison
• Intel Mobile Processor Comparisons