Newegg.com - Intel Dual-Core E2180 Allendale 2.0GHz 1MB L2 Cache LGA 775 Processor - Retail Newegg.com - Intel Core 2 Duo E4400 Allendale 2.0GHz 2M shared L2 Cache LGA 775 Processor - Retail Ok, i'm out to buy a semi-budget build, and im having a tough time deciding between the two.. I plan on overclocking and playing high end games such as CS:S, BioShock, and Unreal Tournament 3..
Well, Core 2 Duo is the high end version of Intel's dual core techno, and Dual Core is the mid end version. The Core 2 Duo performs better because of the power that goes in per clock cycle. However, dual core, being the mid end, means there is lots of room for over-clocking (if you ditch stock heat+fan and buy a more effective one). I would go for the first one, unless you are on a budget.