The first thing to notice is that AMD is launching a new model set 100 MHz higher for the same price as the previous 9850 at 2.5 GHz. The small boost in frequency should enable this CPU to be equivalent to Intel’s Q6600. Unfortunately, this is to the detriment of power consumption and the TDP gains 15W compared to the previous model for a total of 140W. Therefore, even with its Q6600 Intel holds a clear advantage in terms of power consumption all the while being slightly less expensive (officially $224).
After the Phenom X4 9100e in march, two new models with a TDP of 65W will make an appearance based on B3 stepping. AMD will take advantage of the occasion to attain 2 GHz on the 9350e while the 9100e and 9150e will both be at 1.8 GHz. The TDP will be reached thanks to a nominal voltage of 1.15v versus, for example, 1.3v for a 9950.
AMD has just announced the release of 3 new Phenoms: