What Is the Difference in Computer Processors?

by Robert Cook

Overview

When it comes to comparing computer processors, many people simply look at the clock speed. In actuality, several different aspects of each will determine how well it performs in the computer.
Computer processors are the brains of computers.

Architecture

The system architecture is the most basic level at which the processor operates. It refers to how many bits of data the processor can operate on at any given instant. A higher-bit processor needs software written to operate on that level to give the best benefit.
Number of Cores

Different processors will have a different number of processors on the chip die. For example, a dual core processor will have two processors and a quad core will have four. More cores allows the processor to perform better at a lower clock speed.
Clock Speed

The clock speed refers to the speed at which the processor can process data. For example, HelpWithPCs.com indicates that a processor operating at 2 GHz can process 2 billion operations per second.
Front Side Bus

The front side bus refers to the speed at which the processor communicates with the other components in the computer. There are two channels--one to determine what the information is and one to determine where that information goes.
Cache

The cache refers to a particular type of memory stored on the processor itself. The data retrieval is much faster than it would be if the processor had to access the RAM. The most commonly used functions the processor performs are stored here.

Overview