Computers & Tablets

[bishfrog007]

Hey everyone! I am in the market for a new laptop and I am trying to decide which processor is better between the core 2 duo or the new i3. Is there really that noticeable of a difference? I have unsuccessfully tried to find head-to-head comparisons of the two on the internet but that may be because the i3 is so new. I would like to get the best that I can at the most reasonable price. I am not really a gamer but I would like to be able to run multiple applications and play/edit HD video when needed. I understand that the i3 is also an "entry-level" processor so would it be worthwhile to hold off until more i5 and i7 models become available? I have plenty of time to look around before purchasing so I am not in any sort of rush, just trying to see what is out there.

Thanks in advance for all your your help!

[Ach3r0n]

Well the i3 wouldoutperform theC2D but the cost of the i3's supporting hardware might not be worth it (RAM, motherboard).  The i7 has been on a perpetual sale (for the last year) at a certain retailer for $199.  You will find it if you Google.   Supporting hardware would be pricey but the performance gains over a C2D would be considerable.  If I was going to build myself a new PC right now, that is the way I would go.  If you are going dual-core, then I would stick with a C2D over an i3 for the cost savings vs minimal performance gain.

I guess the real question is - do you need anything more than a C2D?  A C2D will easily handle the needs of most casual users but if you are rendering/encoding AVCHD for example, then quad-core will be quite beneficial.

[SlimJim77]

The i3 is significantly faster than Core 2 Duo. Intel has come viscous for 2010.

[Nokia]

They've come viscous?

[bishfrog007]

Thanks for the help! I probably would do fine with the C2D but I am trying to think about the future. Case in point, my current laptop has lasted me over four years. I don't see myself needing a quad core because I am more of a casual user. I have seen two similar models on the BB Web site that differ only in the processor for about $80 difference (before tax). Either model would work within my price range. I just need to make a decision about which one to choose or whether I should wait and see what models come out using the i5 and the i7.

Thanks again!

[SlimJim77]

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@Nokia wrote:

They've come viscous?

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Ahhh, my heat-seeking dictionary friend. I'm had yet again. Vicious.

[Nokia]

I was going to ask you their flow rate.