Is the AMD Athlon II X4 635 AM3 Processor Worth Your Money?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Specifications of the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor
3. Performance and Heating of the Processor
4. Comparison with Intel Processors
5. Value for Money
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ

Introduction

Are you in the market for a new processor? Today, we will be reviewing the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor. This quad-core processor operates at a speed of 2.9 gigahertz per core and has a TDP of 95 watts. In this article, we will discuss its specifications, performance, heating issues, and compare it to Intel processors. Plus, we'll determine if it offers good value for money. So without further ado, let's dive into the details!

Specifications of the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor

Before we delve into the performance of the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor, let's take a closer look at its specifications. This processor operates at a speed of 2.9 gigahertz per core and runs at voltages ranging from 0.85 volts to 1.25 volts. It uses 45 nanometer technology, which is still a standard for AMD processors. While its 2 megabytes of L2 cache is impressive, it lacks the L3 cache found in Phenom processors. Additionally, the multiplier of this CPU is locked, meaning it cannot be easily overclocked like its Black Edition counterparts.

Performance and Heating of the Processor

When it comes to performance, the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor holds its own. With its quad-core design and decent speed, it offers excellent multitasking capabilities. Moreover, it delivers impressive results when it comes to startup and shutdown times, as well as overall system performance. However, it's worth noting that this processor tends to run hot, reaching temperatures of around 71-72 degrees Celsius. To ensure optimal performance, it's crucial to invest in a quality heatsink cooler and apply proper thermal compound.

Comparison with Intel Processors

Now, let's compare the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor with its Intel counterparts. In terms of price, AMD processors generally offer more affordable options, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. If you're looking for a similarly priced Intel chip, you would likely be considering the dual-core E6600 or E6700 processors. However, these Intel chips have two less cores compared to the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635. To get a similar number of cores and speed as the AMD processor, you would need to spend significantly more on an Intel i7 920, 930, or 950. While Intel processors have an advantage with their two Threads per core, it's important to evaluate your needs and budget when making a decision.

Value for Money

Considering its performance and price, the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor offers excellent value for money. While the Phenom 2 X3 may seem like a tempting option with its L3 cache, it's important to note that unlocking the fourth core requires technical expertise. If you're not an enthusiast or don't have the knowledge to perform such modifications, the Athlon 2 X4 635 provides a hassle-free quad-core experience right out of the box. Its performance, combined with its affordable price, makes it a viable option for both casual users and budget gamers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor is a quad-core processor that delivers respectable performance at an affordable price. While it may lack some features found in higher-end processors, it compensates with its quad-core design and decent speed. Its value for money proposition makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals looking for a reliable and capable processor. Overall, I give the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

FAQ

Q: Can I overclock the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor? A: Due to its locked multiplier, overclocking options are limited for this particular processor. If you're interested in overclocking, you may want to consider the Black Edition processors from AMD.

Q: Does the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor come with a stock cooler? A: The retail variant of the processor comes with its own stock cooler. However, if you opt for the OEM version, you will need to purchase a separate heatsink cooler.

Q: Can the AMD Athlon 2 X4 635 AM3 Processor be used with an AM2+ motherboard? A: Yes, the processor is compatible with both AM3 and AM2+ motherboards. This is advantageous as it allows users to upgrade their processor without having to invest in a new motherboard.