I am using AMD processor for myself on my desktop and I dont think performance is bad at all. Price is very reasonable compare to the Intel processors too
I use an AMD processor in one of my machines. No complaints at all. Dual core Athlon. Compatible to the dual core Intel. A bit cheaper in price. I think most people would not notice the speed difference. Maybe you need it in the NASA space program. Hard core gamer's like speed. That is why I bought a game console and have a CPU totally dedicated to gaming. Most computer speed issues lay in corrupt registry files. I used CCleaner on an old Pentium lll once and was blown away how fast the old girl could be.
I am pretty loyal brand wise and have been a long time fan of AMD but, intel is frankly killing them these days. I am about to upgrade to an i7 rig finally. N.
INTEL and AMD is just two different company, they both offers good processor, but AMD seems to be cheaper than intel processors.