AMD Sempron 140 2.70 GHz Review 41

AMD Sempron 140 2.70 GHz Review

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Value and Conclusion

  • AMD is pricing their Sempron 140 at $39.
  • Fastest single core CPU available
  • Socket AM2(+)/DDR2 compatibility
  • Same list of technology support as AMD Phenom II
  • Great pricing compared to Intel's processors
  • Potentially unlockable second core
  • Good overclocking and great underclocking potential
  • Single core
  • Power consumption could be lower
If you are an optimist, after going through the review and performance graphs you'll say "What a great and cheap CPU with great potential and unlocking possibilities". On the other hand if you are a pessimist you'll be going "What a piece of crap single threaded CPU". The objective conclusion lies somewhere between these two extremes.
It is not that easy to stay objective after you see a $39 CPU performing like a $100 CPU. The price difference is huge, and users who know how to use all this potential, can save loads of money. But then again, do you feel lucky? Because that's all you need to get a potentially unlockable Sempron. Luck and some basic BIOS knowledge.
If you, however, don't know how to unlock, or even how to get into the BIOS, you still have the best performing single core on the market, that can be used in HTPC, office work or in everyday computer usage. While you didn't spend much money, you also have to acknowledge the fact that this is just a single core processor. Looking back at the performance graphs, it is hard to imagine, that not too long ago we were all computing with such slow CPUs, and today you will be performance limited in almost every aspect with a single threaded CPU. Unlike AMD's new Athlons which are very flexible budget CPUs, the new Semprons have a specific and narrow list of potential buyers.
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May 5th, 2024 21:57 EDT change timezone

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