PCWizKid has the opportunity to review one of the latest mainstream processors from Intel, the Q8400. This Core 2 Quad CPU follows the foot steps of its older cousin the Q9400. The funny thing is there are plenty of Intel CPU model's to chose form and primarily for these latest mainstream CPU's its the Level 2 Cache size that makes the difference. These days the 45nm die size is the standard and also a 2.6Ghz to 3Ghz core speed is not uncommon. The factor that usually drives the decision to purchase is the performance vs price.
PCWizkid takes a closer look at the performance the Q8400 gives in this video review, putting to the test its capabilities beyond the default 2.66Ghz core speed. The overclocking flexibility gives a CPU an advantage over other models. Hardcore PC Gamers, PC Enthusiasts and the those keen in getting the most bang for the buck will in most cases tweak their systems to squeeze more performance out of it. In the video review PCWizkid will be showing how easy it is to do this with the Q8400 even though the multiplier is locked between 6 and 8.
CPU Specifications
sSpec Number: CPU Speed: PCG: Bus Speed: Bus/Core Ratio: L2 Cache Size: L2 Cache Speed:
SLGT6 2.66 GHz 05A 1333 MHz 8 4 MB 2.66 GHz
Package Type: Manufacturing Technology: CPUID String: Thermal Design Power: Thermal Specification: VID Voltage Range:
LGA775 45 nm R0 1067Ah 95W 71.4°C 0.85V – 1.3625V
Supported Features: Quad Core
Enhanced Intel Speedstep® Technology
Intel® EM64T 1
Intel® Virtualization Technology
Enhanced Halt State (C1E)
Execute Disable Bit 2
Intel® Thermal Monitor 2
Notes:
These parts have PROCHOT# enabled These parts have THERMTRIP# enabled These parts have PECI enabled These parts have Deep Sleep State (C3E) enabled These parts have Deeper Sleep State (C4E) enabled
As seen in the review for the casual user and a beginner to overclocking the Intel Core 2 Quad Q8400 makes it very easy to get more performance with minimal effort and tweaking. This mainstream processor though not a "black unlocked edition" definitely shows how the average user can have the best of a reliable quad core CPU with the Intel technology to back it up. PCWizKid was very pleased to see how the temperatures where kept low and also its results in benchmarking with the nVidia GTX260 made this the perfect mix for terrific results. So the question is why spend over $200? If you don't need to overclock at the moment or are looking for a solid entry point into the Intel Quad Core array of CPU's the Q8400 will deliver results that rival others of equal or more cost making this a very competitive alternative.
Contact PCWizKid for general feedback, requests for reviewing your hardware or software product or for media and press requests. Click here for contact details