Intel Core i5-750 review

Verdict:

A powerful new architecture that's cheaper than existing Core i7 chips. However, a quad-core Phenom's still better value.

Review Date: 7 Sep 2009

Price when reviewed: including VAT

Reviewed By: Seth Barton

Our Rating 5 stars out of 5

Despite the processor being directly linked with the PCI-Express graphics card slots, we didn't see any significant variation in our Call of Duty 4 benchmark scores. This is no bad thing, though, as we often find that games run slowly on new hardware while the drivers are being optimised.

Intel claims that the 2.66GHz Core-i5 is 20 per cent faster than the 2.66GHz Core 2 Quad Q9400, which adds up with our figures. Equally impressive is its far lower idling power consumption, around half that of its predecessor. This is despite both processors having the same 45nm manufacturing process and a TDP of 95W. One thing that did annoy us was the new CPU cooler. Frustratingly, it's sized half-way between the LGA1366 and LGA775 coolers, so older heatsinks won't fit the new motherboards.

Looking only at the price and benchmark scores of the Core i5-750, and you'd quickly conclude that Intel was about to wipe the floor with AMD. However, a processor is no use without a motherboard and P55 Express boards are looking to be a touch on the pricey side. If you're looking to build a powerful PC, then the Core i5-750 is still good value for money, and the lower cost of boards and memory make it far better value for money than the original Core i7s. However, you can buy a perfectly capable Phenom II chip and board for around half the price of Core i5.

Prev Next

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous Reviews : Processors Next >

Sponsored Links

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.