Should I choose as a processor an Intel Core i5 or an i7? Specifically, the two options that I can afford are the I5-520M (2.4GHZ, 3MB, Dual Core) and the i7-720QM (1.60GHz, 6MB, Quad Core). Regardless of the processor, I was planning to buy 4GB DDR3 memory.
The only program that I use which alone needs processing power is Photoshop, i.e. I do not use any CADs or anything like that. However, I do often have a lot of programs running at the same time, including Photoshop doing some automated work (but rarely anything super-intensive like filters or such), a web browser with at least 50 tabs or so, a few MS Office programs, and maybe five other similar programs.
I do realize that the i5 would probably be sufficient most of the time. But if I have the chance to get an i7 by paying 200-300 Euros more, should I do it or not? After all, I am planning to use the laptop for the next five years or so (until it breaks), so would the i7 be a wise investment? As far as I know, it is always very easy to add more RAM but ONLY if I choose the i7! This is so because if I choose the i5, I need to choose also a cheaper chipset which has a maximum of 4 GB RAM. If I choose the i7, I need to choose the better chipset which has a maximum of 16GB RAM.
On the other hand, I do need to look carefully at the price. The model I am choosing is kind of over my budget, so I kind of have to stick to the cheapest components when doing the configuration. Yet again, a friend told me that in a few years when the laptop will be already quite old, I would be happy to have the i7. Why is this so, if I after all do not really do any games or other stuff that require more processing power?
What’s your opinion/recommendation? Thanks in advance! :)
