Intel and AMD released their next-generation chipsets. Both Intel's second-generation Core CPUs ( Sandy Bridge) and AMD's Fusion Accelerated Processing Units (APUs) combine disparate systems within the same processing die, promising capabilities beyond what we've seen before.
What is the difference between them and which is better? Let's know about them. In the simplest terms, Sandy Bridge is a technology while Fusion is a design philosophy.
Intel's Sandy Bridge Chipsets:
In the 2nd generation Core CPUs, the graphics have been properly integrated with the CPU. For the end user, this translates to faster and more efficient computers, especially in the notebook secto.
One of the biggest changes introduced by Sandy Bridge is the integration of a graphics processing unit (GPU) directly onto the die of the processor. In other words, if you're a typical PC user and not a dedicated gamer, there's no need to connect a graphics card to the CPU.
The new execution units present in Sandy Bridge GPU can provide more than 20 times the power of Intel's Generation-5 graphics. It will also be able to compete with entry-level discrete graphics cards from Nvidia and AMD.
AMD's Fusion Chipsets:
The Fusion chips combine a CPU and graphics processor in a single piece of silicon, which helps graphics and programs run a lot faster. On some chips, the integrated graphics processor will allow users to view Blu-ray movies or play 3D games. It will also work in tandem with the CPU to execute data intensive tasks faster.
The graphics processors will accelerate specific video and graphics tasks such as Flash and DVD video playback, freeing up CPUs for everyday tasks like antivirus and word processing. The graphics processor in Fusion will natively support Microsoft's DirectX 11 technology, which should bring improved graphics and application performance to notebooks.[Source]
