Last month we took our first look at dual-core processors in the form of AMD's Opteron processors. While those processors are targeted at servers and workstations, AMD still had dual-core desktop parts to deliver. Today we bring you the first look at dual-core Athlon 64 parts, dubbed Athlon 64 X2, under Linux. We'll run through the numbers as usual but also throw in a mix of information on support, stability, cost, availability, and a few other key points on these new chips. Will dual-core on the desktop make you run out and buy a new processor?

Hopefully our Athlon 64 X2 4800+ will be able to answer that question. Unfortunately, even though they are available, we won't be able to take a look at the Intel dual-core part in this review. The Linux support is not yet ironed out and we're waiting on that to complete the Intel side of things.

complete review