Spec Comparison Confusion

[Peacebringer]

Hey guys, I am confused with spec comparisons in regards to AMD and Intel. I see that some AMD CPU's have 4.0GHz+ and 8 cores, and are priced extremely cheap at around the 100$-200$ mark. However I'll turn around and see an Intel CPU with 3.5GHz and 4 cores and it's 300$+; extremely expensive in comparison. Is this because the Intel CPU is better or what? It sounds bad in comparison but I don't want to believe that, as Intel is from my knowledge more popular. But how could they be more popular if their products are overpriced? Right? So could someone help me understand why these processors are better or what have you? And why? What specs may be hidden from my eyes that make these CPU's better?

[HKZeroFive]

Generally Intel CPUs are better at single-threaded performance and are more suitable for gaming. AMD, on the other hand, has more cores and is thus better for multitasking applications at that price. The only other reason I'd buy an AMD CPU is if I was on a really, really tight budget.

[Glenwing]

Hey guys, I am confused with spec comparisons in regards to AMD and Intel. I see that some AMD CPU's have 4.0GHz+ and 8 cores, and are priced extremely cheap at around the 100$-200$ mark. However I'll turn around and see an Intel CPU with 3.5GHz and 4 cores and it's 300$+; extremely expensive in comparison. Is this because the Intel CPU is better or what? It sounds bad in comparison but I don't want to believe that, as Intel is from my knowledge more popular. But how could they be more popular if their products are overpriced? Right? So could someone help me understand why these processors are better or what have you? And why? What specs may be hidden from my eyes that make these CPU's better?

 

There is another spec which isn't listed which also play a part in determining performance. It isn't just about that almighty GHz number

 

This is a good demonstration of it, and the description explains the results in much more detail.