AMD unveils new 'budget' processors

AMD is launching an array of new CPUs targeted at those looking to spend as few of their hard-earned dollars as possible.

• AMD Athlon II X2 255  65W  3.1 GHz  $74
• AMD Athlon II X3 440  95W  3.0 GHz  $84
• AMD Athlon II X4 635  95W  2.9 GHz  $119
• AMD Phenom II X2 555  80W  3.2 GHz  $99
• AMD Phenom II X4 910e  65W  2.6 GHz  $169

Note: Prices are for trays of 1,000, retail prices will be somewhat higher.

All these processors are based on existing technology, so there's no new hardware innovations here. However,what we do have is new frequencies, new model numbers, and new, attractive pricing.

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Three highlights from the list:

• The new AMD Phenom II X2 555 Black Edition processor is AMD's fastest dual-core desktop processor to date, humming along at 3.2 GHz. This piece is an ideal choice for the budget-conscious consumer wanting a cheap Windows 7 system platform, priced at an affordable $99
• The new AMD Athlon II X4 635 processor is designed to provide exceptional quad-core performance to handle the demands of multitasking and multi-threaded applications
• The AMD Phenom II X4 910e is an energy-efficient part, making it ideal for applications such as home theater because a cooler CPU means less cooling is needed, making for a quieter system. It also means you can put all the parts into a smaller chassis