Multi-Threaded Performance

As we are covering multi-core processors, a more in-depth look at multi-threaded processor performance is certainly warranted - without the limitations of single-threaded applications or component-specific benchmarks. In this set of tests, we offer up three different multi-threaded benchmarks: CINEBENCH 9.5, CINEBENCH 10 and WinRAR.

CINEBENCH 9.5 & 10 Performance

CINEBENCH is a performance suite, which utilizes CINEMA 4D for both CPU and video-based testing. We use the multi-threaded CPU benchmark, which processes a large, detailed image file on-screen, and displays the test results. Both CINEBENCH 9.5 and 10 dynamically shift image processing on the fly. If one core is finished its job, the program automatically segments the remainder of the image, thereby speeding up processing times considerably. The main difference between the two is the image workload, with CINEBENCH 9.5 offering a more mainstream test, while CINEBENCH 10 gives the CPU a much tougher workout.

The CINEBENCH testing starts off very well for the 3.0 GHz Core 2 Extreme QX9650, and it has by far the top overall score. It finishes well ahead of the dual core processors, and even holds a nice performance advantage over the 3.0 GHz Core 2 Extreme QX6850. Now we'll see if Intel's latest and greatest 45nm processor can repeat the trick in the far more demanding CINEBENCH 10 benchmark.

The CINEBENCH 10 benchmark scores show the Core 2 Extreme QX9650 at the top of the performance chart, but with one small difference. This time, the Core 2 Extreme QX6850 puts up a much better showing, coming very close to matching the 45nm newcomer.

WinRAR 3.71 Performance

WinRAR is one of the most popular compression programs, and it even includes an internal benchmark program that measures the performance of the RAR compression and decompression algorithm using a demanding worst-case data set. This multi-threaded test offers a data throughput rating, and while it does not relate specifically to cache or memory transfers, we have found that the overall throughput numbers do adhere closely to the overall architecture. A faster clock speed certainly helps, but the score also ties in closely with memory, cache and CPU performance.

Chock up another victory for the Core 2 Extreme QX9650. Its performance in WinRAR benchmarking is again right at the top of the class, and even noticeably ahead of the Core 2 Extreme QX6850.