Introduction

AMD unleashes its all new dual-core processors

Funny how it's always the same. You start to pack your bags to travel around the world to an exhibition, in this case Computex, and merely days before you have to leave you get an email from both AMD and Intel with a request. 'Ehm Hilbert mate, can you have these new processors reviewed on launch date during Computex'.

Oh well, combine stress, writers block and lots of coffee, and you reach a scenario we are all too familiar with. So sure, ship them processors out and let's have a look. So hello everybody and welcome to a new processor series review. Today we'll be looking at a processor series that I am really glad to see released. AMD is announcing two new dual-core processors today, one based on the Phenom II architecture... the other branded under the Athlon II series.

Now if you have read our Phenom 7850BE review a couple of weeks ago, I addressed this even in the conclusion, Phenom II architecture would make for a great dual-core processor series. It's fast, flexible, overclockable and very affordable. It would instantly bring say 25% more performance to AMDs dual-core processors.

As such AMD really needed to launch these puppies as, let's just face it, Intel can use some decent competition in that segment. There's a very simple and golden rule my friends, when you have competition in the processor arena, you get better prices and a far more competitive technology platform.

So as you can already tell, I'm just really happy with the release today. So let me reveal the names, AMD launches their AM3 socket 45nm process based Athlon II X2 250 and Phenom II X2 550 BE.

• Athlon II X2 250 at 3.0 GHz for 87 USD
• Phenom II X2 550 BE at 3.1 GHz for 102 USD

Now due to my sheer time limitations the review will be a little bit shorter than usual, but really... we'll still cover 98% of everything you need to know. Have a peek at the two new AMD goblins and then please head on over to the next page.