Difference between 3 or 4 core (and 6 core / 8 core)

Not my domain, but my friend thinks not much is developed for a hex core (or triple core).

My feeling is, perhaps similar to when dual core was just coming out, not many things supported it. Now, you would think multi-core, multiple of 2 or 3 would not make too much of a difference. But there must be some difference beyond the number itself?

 

Do note a 3-Core CPU is really a quad core with 1 core disabled because it failed testing. This is a fairly common practice to prevent a total loss for the maker. Floppy, hard drives and RAM makers do the same thing. See this.

I think what is important to remember is while there may not be many programs capable of using 6 and 8 cores, operating systems can and do. So while a game or other program may not benefit, the OS will and that will be reflected in over all computer performance.

Ummm, 1 is an odd number and the standard for decades, and are still being sold today. The Intel Celeron G470 is one several single core Celerons. There are also many Intel Atom processors that are single core. And there are a few AMD Sempron's that are single core, like the Sempron 140.

 

Something consumers do not take note of is that more cores also allows your computer to remain responsive when performing cpu heavy tasks.

That said, I think most consumers can get by on a fast dual core CPU. In my line of work, more cores is a godsend, because it helps compile times and keeps your machine from slowing down during compiles.

I'm running an 8 cores + 8 HT core-i7 at work.