Computer CPU's: Which ones are best when buying a computer?

Knowing what kind of CPU you want in a computer is akin to deciding what kind of engine you want in a car. CPUs come in all sorts of flavors for different types of computing, but as  a consumer, it pays to know which are faster CPUs when price comparison shopping. With all the names out there from Intel and AMD, it is confusing for the average non-tech consumer. It pays because you can shop for a computer with a better CPU (faster) since many are no longer that pricey.

When shopping for a computer, everyone wants the most bang for the buck.  High end CPUs are the best for gaming, heavy video use, heavy multitasking. They are:

High End CPUs

Intel i7, i5, i3 and Core 2 Quad. Many HP computers have the i5 and i3 for not much more than $500. From AMD, there is Phenon II, in a x6, x4, x2 configuration.

Mid-Range CPUs

These are still adequate for most non-gamers, many are fast. These are multitasking CPUs, in many cases, allowing one to run email, watch a movie simultaneously. They are:

Intel Core Duo 2, Dual Core, Core Duo or Core Solo. From AMD, Phenon x4 or x3, Turion II, Athlon x2

Low End CPUs

These CPUs are just adequate, they are slow, but do get the job done. No multi-tasking here. These are like the VW of CPUs. They are:

Intel Centrino or Centrino Duo, Atom, Celeron. From AMD, Sempron and Athlon Neo

Along with any mid to high end CPU, make sure the computer has a 7200 RPM Hard-drive SATA and at least 4 MB of memory.