Intel Core i5-661 Processor Review

Intel continues filling out its processor lineup with the introduction of the 2010 Intel Core Processor Family, comprising new versions of Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 processors. The new Core i3 and Core i5 processors use Intel's new "Westmere" architecture, which brings facets of Intel's "Nehalem" design to the lower-end desktop CPUs (code-named "Clarkdale") and mobile CPUs (code-named "Arrandale"). These are Intel's first CPUs to be built on a 32-nanometer process, and some models include another first for Intel: a graphics processing unit (GPU) included on-chip. Built with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology and an improved version of the Turbo Boost feature introduced with the original Nehalem processors, how do these new dual-core CPUs compare with other processors in Intel's line? Benchmark Reviews tests the Intel Core i5-661 CPU, model BX80616I5661, with its integrated GPU to find out.

The Core i5-661 is one of four new Core i5 desktop processors recently introduced: the Core i5-650, Core i5-660, Core i5-661, and Core i5-670. The remaining two Core i5 desktop processors, the Core i5-750 and Core i5-750S, are built on Intel's older 45nm process. Functionally, the main difference between the older Core i5-750 processors and the newly-introduced Clarkdalfe CPUs is that the former are true quad-core designs, while the new processors are all dual-core designs, albeit with the advantage of Hyper-Threading and significantly higher clock speeds. How much of a difference will this make in the relative performance of these CPUs? We'll see in the benchmarks section later.

About Intel Corporation

Intel Corporation is the world's largest semiconductor company. Founded by semiconductor pioneers Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, and widely associated with the executive leadership and vision of Andrew Grove, Intel combines advanced chip design capability with a leading-edge manufacturing capability. Originally known primarily to engineers and technologists, Intel's successful "Intel Inside" advertising campaign of the 1990s made it and its Pentium processor household names.

Intel pushes the boundaries of innovation so our work can make people's lives more exciting, fulfilling, and manageable. And our work never stops. We never stop looking for the next leap ahead-in technology, education, culture, manufacturing, and social responsibility. And we never stop striving to deliver solutions with greater benefits for everyone. Intel is making PCs more accessible and affordable through innovative PC purchase programs. Through public and private collaboration, Intel has worked closely with government and industry leaders to develop more than 200 programs in 60 countries. With the onslaught of wireless broadband communication technologies like WiMAX, Wi-Fi, and 3G and wireline ADSL and cable, Intel in collaboration with local governments is connecting more people in more places than ever before-no matter how remote.

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