Conclusion

Even though it's been over 18 months since we first posted this report, Intel Core 2 engineering samples are still being sold. In fact, a confidential source just told us there is a new flood of ES processors from China (Dec. 7, 2008). Most of these are sold at a much lower prices than even OEM processors. The latest price quoted was a mere RM 20 (USD 5.70) per processor when purchased in quantity (Dec. 23, 2008).

Their low price makes these ES processors extremely attractive. Even when sold with a large discount, dealers stand to make a small fortune, especially if they "neglect" to inform their customers that these are ES processors, not genuine OEM processors. There are also dealers who attempt to market these ES processors as something special and charge a premium for them.

If you do choose to buy an Intel Core 2 ES processor, you would do well to avoid paying a premium for what could be defective or partially working processor samples. Remember, all Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad engineering samples are multiplier-locked. Only Core 2 Extreme engineering samples are unlocked, but so are all OEM/retail Core 2 Extreme processors.

What's worse though is that some dealers may be surreptitiously using these ES processors in assembled PCs, or counterfeit boxed processor kits. The low cost of ES processors makes it really enticing for unscrupulous dealers to use them in the PCs they sell, instead of OEM processors. As for counterfeit boxed processors, the large supply of ES processors could mean that these dealers may replace the OEM processors normally used in those counterfeit kits with ES processors.

No matter whether they are sold in the open as ES processors or sold unbeknownst as genuine OEM processors, in fake retail boxes or in assembled PCs, these ES processors are really stolen property. It's pretty amazing how so many get into the market. ES units of previous Intel processors were never so easily available. We will, of course, leave it to your conscience to determine if it's okay to buy them or not. But to be honest, you are not getting value for your money.

After all, you will not be getting any warranty or support from Intel, should your processor not work properly. Even if you do not end up with one of the troublesome B0 stepping processors, you may still end up with a processor that is fundamentally damaged or flawed. Such a processor could be unstable and/or have poor overclocking potential.

You have to weigh all that against the money you save. But unless you are fully aware of the potential issues with ES processors and are willing to live with those issues, it would generally be a better idea to fork out the extra cash and buy a retail processor. If your budget is tight, try sourcing for an OEM processor. Although it does not come with the full warranty and cooler, it is the same processor as the retail processor, only cheaper.

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support out work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Questions & Comments

Please feel free to post your questions or comments here!