AMD Phenom II X4 975 Black Edition 3.6GHz Socket AM3 Box

Up:

• Very high-clocked Quad Core
• Reasonably priced
• Lots of computing power in multithreaded applications
• Compatibility with older chipsets, AM2+ socket, and DDR2 memory (subject to BIOS update)
• Overclocking potential (does not apply to every sample)

Down:

• High power consumption under load compared to Intel's rivals
• Unlocked multiplier adds little practical value
• Not the best choice for hardcore gamers

Although AMD's Deneb core is by now tuned to perfection, its blade had became dull over time, and looking back, AMD has relied on its Deneb core for quite some time now. Introduction of a faster SKU than 3.50 GHz Phenom II X4, based on old Deneb core makes little sense when you look at it from a buyers' viewpoint. Yes it's fast, but in this price segment it has far too little or outdated features to make it more interesting to buy over, say a six core Phenom II X6 with Turbo Core feature, or Intel's Core i5/i7 models which are a bit more expensive but have better power consumption/performance ratio and awesome Turbo Boost feature which makes them the perfect choice for gamers or users still working in less threaded environments. Introduction of Phenom II X4 975 BE is more of a sting towards Intel rather than fatal strike, attempt to ruin their day, or rather Sandy Bridge introduction day. But Phenom II X4 is in a whole different category, forced by Intel it has been downgraded to a mainstream brand, best value for money. It lacks the marketing power to stand up to Intel's brand new architecture, and it lacks the raw power and features to come close to Sandy Bridge in any way. Nevertheless, Phenom II X4 975 is here and it is certain many buyers will make the most of it. It's still a great performer in its class, and offers great value for the money.

Pros:
Overclocks netted 650MHz
Affordable
Works in current AM2+ and AM3 motherboards

Cons:
Small increase in performance over previous model

Pros:

• Very competitive pricing
• Good price-to-performance ratio
• Work in both AM3 and AM2+ motherboards
• Compatible with both DDR2 and DDR3 memory

Cons:

• Phenom II X4 840 not any faster than Athlon II series

The two new additions to the Phenom II line bring a fresh update to AMD users. The Phenom II X4 975 offers the top-end stock performance for an excellent price, while the X4 840 gives budget conscious users the ability to build a low cost Phenom II-based system for their general computing needs. The AMD Phenom II X4 840 offers a budget entry chip that is set to retail for around $100 and offers plenty of performance for workstations and everyday computing. The higher end Phenom II X4 975 brings top-level quad-core performance with a great sub $200 price. Both have a fantastic bang-for-the-buck ratio, which will make any user's current or future AM3 system a great performer.When it came to overclocking, the X4 840 has a locked multiplier and did not offer much in the way of overclocking, with only a 400MHz burst. That being said, for the price, they are hard to beat. The X4 975 on the other hand, is an overclocking beast, making it to 4.32GHz with ease thanks to the unlocked multiplier and a bit of tweaking. At 4.3GHz and a price tag under $200, this chip is also hard to be beat. The scores were excellent and the chip never faltered. Overall, these are two great additions to the Phenom II line and are sure to make any budget happy. 

Pros

• Excellent Crisp Performance
• Unlocked Multiplier for Increased Overclocking Possibilities In 975BE
• Flexibility of AM2+ and AM3 compatibility
• Full L2 and L3 Cache (in 975BE)
• Low Temps Even When Overclocked/Overvolted
• Low Price

Cons

• None