AMD Busts Out Low-powered Athlons and First 3GHz CPU

AMD fans looking for a few energy efficient chips now have the option of choosing from the new 3500+ and 3800+ Athlon 64s. Both single-core processors are based on 65nm technology (like Intel's Core 2 Duos). The difference is that AMD's chips draw only 45 watts of power...

whereas Intel's draw around 65. So if you're trying to cut back on costs or need a quiet living room PC, AMD's new chips (although late to the game) are the better bet. On the other end of the scale, there's the Athlon 64 X2 dual-core 6000+, AMD's first 3GHz CPU, which for those keeping score, is AMD's fastest CPU to date (though it still doesn't topple Intel's best). AMD's new chip is already being packed inside some of Alienware's top models. The latter is selling in bulk for $464 while the 3500+ and 3800+ are going for $88 and $93, respectively.

Press Release [AMD]