Buying a better CPU

No matter how geeky you are, you've got to admit, the microprocessor market is getting a bit hard to follow. Even if you limit yourself to just desktop and laptop processors from AMD and Intel, there are still so many different models, product lines and brands out there, it's hard to keep them all straight. Bundle that with weekly speed bumps and price cuts and you've got an industry that's increasingly difficult to follow. So what's a geek to do when, for example, a non tech-savvy friend asks for a CPU recommendation? If I were you, I might consult Computer Shopper's newly-released CPU buying guide. Go on, there's no shame in reading a buyer's guide ... just so long as nobody sees you reading it.

For more on the latest CPUs:
- see this Computer Shopper buyer's guide