What will determine processor performance? What are other factors that determine performance speed?
The biggest boost for a processor is a large Level 2 and/or large Level 1 cache (used for storing instructions while running programs that take advantage of them). Some older processors even had an L3 cache. The amount of cooling also figures largely, but the amount needed to make any real difference is major (like 80-90 degress F. cooler than ambient). Excellent cooling plus overclocking can gain you anywhere from 25-40 percent speed gains in MHz.
