Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Review:

The Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 processor is the latest in cutting edge processor technology for the desktop PC.  Core 2 Quad Q6600 based on the Intel Core micro-architecture, the Quad Q6600 processor delivers four complete execution cores within a single processor, delivering unprecedented performance and responsiveness. More instructions can be carried out per clock cycle, shorter and wider pipelines execute commands more quickly, and improved bus lanes move data throughout the system faster. Four dedicated, physical threads help operating systems and applications deliver additional performance, so you can experience better multi-tasking and multi-threaded performance across many types of applications and workload. A 4-pin connector is included for fan speed control to help minimize the acoustic noise levels generated from running the fan at higher speeds for thermal performance.

The Core 2 Quad Q6600 is a 2.4GHz chip, like its little brother the E6600. Both CPUs are nearly identical and use the same die(s), except that the Core 2 Quad Q6600 has two of them. Essentially, everything is doubled. Twice the cores, twice the cache and twice the drool. Like the other Core 2 Duos, Core 2 Quads are based on a 65nm process, although the process requires a slightly higher stock voltage. Since both the Quads are so similar to the Duos, it’s no surprise to see that the die size is simply doubled as well, resulting in 2 x 143mm^2.

When compared to the top of the line QX6700 chip, the specs are again identical except for the 2.66GHz clock speed. Other than that, the CPUs are the same, just binned differently. When comparing to the top end Core 2 Duo, the differences are a lot more meaningful. While the QX6700 retails for just under $1,000, so does the X6800. However, when considering the QX6700, you receive a lower clock speed in return for twice the cores. At that point, it’s up to you whether you want or need the sheer clock speed or greater benefits for your multi-thread applications.

Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 User Review:

For the uninitiated, the usefulness of a quad-core CPU versus the more ubiquitous (and less expensive) dual-core version is dubious for most desktop users. Most applications are not multi-threaded and therefore are not able to make use of the extra CPU cores packed onto the Core 2 Quad Q6600. Your operating system (Windows, Apple OSX, Linux, etc) can, to some extent, “balance” (sometimes) different tasks between cores, in which case a multi-core CPU can yield noticeable advantages.

However, many software developers are adding “multi-thread” capability to future versions of their applications to take advantage of the new processors. Therefore, at this moment, a quad-core CPU is the best bet for “future-proofing” your computer (if there is such a thing), and Intel is the leader of the pack — by a wide margin (substantiated by every review on the planet).

Why the Core 2 Quad Q6600?

For starters, the price/performance ratio of the Core 2 Quad Q6600 is nothing short of remarkable. This processor has single-handedly given the average desktop user high-end, workstation-caliber performance for a price that is simply unimaginable. The Core 2 Quad Q6600’s dual-core sibling, the E6600, is only a few dollars less expensive. The Core 2 Quad Q6600 is essentially TWO Intel E6600 processors, for only a few dollars more. It’s a no-brainer, especially since the Core 2 Quad Q6600 will run on most of the same motherboards that support the E6600.

Second, the Core 2 Quad Q6600 (especially the newer G0 model) can be easily overclocked to a speed that rivals or exceeds Intel’s latest flagship $1000+ quad-core “Extreme” processors (as-of this writing). With just 60 seconds in the motherboard BIOS, my Core 2 Quad Q6600 is running at 3.2GHz, air-cooled (ie: heatsink and fan), at all stock voltages and RAM FSB (800MHz). Only the CPU is actually overclocked (using a GA-P35-DSR3 motherboard) again, at stock Vcore (1.3v). It is rock-solid stable (Prime95 “Torture Test” for 24 hours) and the four cores never exceed 50C (SpeedFan, corrected) under load and run at 20-30C idle. I have run it at a fully-stable 3.6GHz, but prefer the cooler temps that 3.2GHz operates at. I am reasonably certain that I could get to 4GHz if I wanted to move to water cooling, though I haven’t experienced any lust for more power with the current setup (a first in my computing life).

I run 8GB (4×2GB) of Patriot Extreme Performance DDR2-800 RAM (at stock Bus and VLU) and an EVGA 8800GTX-OC GPU and this is the fastest desktop computer I have ever used (Windows Vista Ultimate x64).

I am NOT a gamer. I’ve never played a game on this computer. I do use Photoshop CS3, Lightroom, InDesign CS3, Illustrator CS3, Dreamweaver, Premiere Pro CS3, AfterEffects CS3, and a number of other CPU-intensive (and multi-threaded) applications. I can process PARs, rip RARs, convert x264 HD video, download NNTP, and write this review all at the same time, all without ANY noticeable slow-down or system “sluggishness.” This processor has single-handedly ushered in a new era of personal computing productivity I never would have believed possible.

By Brendan Getchel

Buy Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Processor