I'm looking into buying a new Dell Inspiron laptop with 3GB RAM and one of two processors. However, when looking at the processors section I noticed that they were offering the Intel T4200 and T6400. Both seemed to be exactly the same apart from the L2 cache size (1mb larger on the latter) and the name (T4200 is 'Pentium Dual Core' and T6400 is 'Core 2 Duo'). I have tried looking for additional specs and benchmarks but cannot seem to find any.
The laptop will be used mainly for surfing the net, word documents etc. However, I will also be installing Adobe's Creative Suite 4 as I will be doing some minor graphic design and web design.
Any light you could shed on the situation would be very helpful. Will spending an extra £50 (roughly $80 I think) give me a noticable improvement in performance and battery life?
It isn't just about the processors anymore. I agree that the Core2Duo is the way to go. But you also need to look at L2 caches sizes, system bus speeds, RAM speed and the like. Not to mention the software needs to be able to take advantage of these things.
Well I like the way the Core 2 Duo's handle but it sounds like it wont be that big of difference. I have a computer from 3 years ago still and it could run the Adobe Products fine. But when it comes to that kind of software I can see why you'd want to have the extra room to say the least. Though I'd go with the cheeper one for now and if there is a upgrade plan take it and do it as you need it.
Good luck and feel free to ask me anything and I'll try and give the best answer ok.
Just thought I would update you guys, I bought the laptop with the Core2Duo and so far I am very impressed. Runs alot smoother and faster than two other Pentium Dual Core laptops I have lying around. Additionaly, the battery life is excellent compared to those two laptops. So thanks for the help guys!
Intel actually just put out a memo of sorts that breaks down their Cor2Duo tech and simplifies their chip portfolio. You may want to check out their website for details.