Is hyper threading used by the OS?

[Raima]

I see a lot of threads by people trying to decide and justify purchasing an i5 or i7. Normally the factors include what applications are able to utilise the hyper threading, but I don't really see any consideration if the operating system uses it.

Is it because the operating system doesn't take advantage of hyper threading? If it does, how much of an impact does it have?

Any clarification would be much appreciated.

 

[cjmillsnun]

OS X has always taken advantage of hyperthreading on Intel chips. It doesn't have that much effect on things as all modern processors are more than powerful enough to run it (the OS) easily.

 

[dukebound85]

Keep in mind that mobile i5's also have HT

 

[Raima]

Keep in mind that mobile i5's also have HT

Thx for that input. Is that the same one used in iMacs?

Just wondering if anyone's had experience with an i5 quad core vs an i7 quad core.

I've only got dual core i5 from the mac mini to compare, but that's not a really fair comparison. I find the mac mini a lot more choppier and less graceful.