Difference between core duo and core 2 duo

[ssledoux]

Really, in the scheme of things, what are we talking? Speed? Performance? What is the difference between these?

Thanks!!

[karsen]

Core Duo is 32 bit and Core 2 Duo is 64 bit.
Core 2 Duo CPU's are 20% faster per clock.
Core 2 Duo has more cache 4MB's vs 2MB's.
Core 2 Duo is more energy efficient (better for laptops.)

[ssledoux]

But is this something I'd really notice using it? And it would be in a mac mini, not a laptop...

[cbelt3]

Consider it more futureproofing to go the newer model, if you can.

I mean, you CAN do Photoshop on an SE/30 if you want to.

[Ken Sp.]

What will the main use be for the MacMini?

MacMini can have the processor upgraded, but it may not be economical.

[ssledoux]

It's for my son. He's gonna hook hit to a 32" hdtv and use it for whatever he does with a computer - internet, some games, music, etc.

(oh, and probably occasional schoolwork too) ;-p

[mattkime]

general users wouldn't notice the difference.

typically a user won't notice a 20% difference but i can't say this on the forum without someone responding "OMG! THATS 20% OF MY LIFE!"

games are the only item you list that might push the processor.

[ADent]

Here is a comparison of the CD and C2D: http://www.macworld.com/article/59770/20...e2cuo.html .

BTW the 1.83GHZ C2D only have 2MB L2 - only the 2GHz and above have 4MB.

[JoeH]

ADent wrote:
Here is a comparison of the CD and C2D: http://www.macworld.com/article/59770/20...e2cuo.html .

BTW the 1.83GHZ C2D only have 2MB L2 - only the 2GHz and above have 4MB.

Except the later C2D chips may have just 3 MB of L2 cache. For example, these are used in the current MacBook and slowest MacBook Pro and previous models of both. Just to vary things more, the faster models of the MacBook Pro of the current and previous models have 6 MB of L2.

[MacManMaz]

With the large display choice, it sounds like he is going for gaming mostly. He may be disappointed. As the macworld article states the mini has a slower 5400rpm hard drive and integrated intel gma950 graphics. This means it will kinda suck for games and may not even support the 32 inch HD display, regardless of the processor. He would be much better off with any refurb iMac with a standalone graphics card. I am pretty sure they all will support that display.

If he is really into gaming, unfortunately the most cost effective answer may be a Windows box, Good Luck.