Intels 65W Core 2 Quad cpu up for pre-order

Intels lower-power Core 2 Quad processors are now propping up at various retailers. Two of the three new 65W parts - the Core 2 Quad Q8200s and Core 2 Quad Q9550s - are available to pre-order from Scan.co.uk, but at a notable premium. Here is how pricing compares for 65W equivalents of existing 95W

Processor	Core 2 Quad Q9550s	Core 2 Quad Q9550	Core 2 Quad Q8200s	Core 2 Quad Q8200
CPU speed	2.83GHz	2.83GHz	2.33GHz	2.33GHz
FSB	1,333MHz	1,333MHz	1,333MHz	1,333MHz
L2 cache	12MB	12MB	4MB	4MB
Manufacturing process	45nm	45nm	45nm	45nm
TDP	65W	95W	65W	95W
Price	£339.04	£231.12	£220.79	£146.61

Were sure there are users to whom each degree in temperature makes all the difference, but a price hike of £108 and £74, respectively, currently make both the Q9550s and Q8200s seem far too pricey.

They might be out of reach for the everyday consumer, but 65W quad-core chips are a welcome addition to Intels line-up and wed expect them to appear in numerous systems in the coming weeks - and perhaps in a refreshed iMac, too.