new laptop purchase query

nikhil30

Honorable
Jun 25, 2013
1
0
10,510
hi i am planning to purchase a new laptop
purpose: programming and other relevant stuff (i have enrolled in a engg degree in comp sci).
ram 4GB hdd 500 gb (5400 rpm)
here are my queries
1 is there a noticable difference in i3 3rd generation and i5 3rd generation?
2 do i need a dedicated graphics card ( i will NOT be playing any games) the machine is xclusively for programming purposes as well as an occasional movie
the clock speed of the model i have selected (dell inspiron 15) is 1.9ghz for core i3
and 2.5 ghz for i5...
3 given my purpose is it necessary to spend the xtra bucks for the i5 model?
4 the screen size? since the screen is led i heard that the power consumption for 15.6 and 14 inch will be minimal.. is it true? if not then is the 14inch preferrable?
 
Solution
1. Yes - http://cpuboss.com/cpus/Intel-Core-i5-3230M-vs-Intel-Core-i3-3120M

2. It's nice to have, but I can't see why you would be in dire need of dedicated graphics for programming. The Intel CPU can handle movies just fine.

3. I'd say it's just about always worth it. You will better "future proof" yourself with an i5. As software becomes more demanding, the i5 will be better able to keep up than the i3.

4. It's true: LEDs consume less power than CCFL panels. If you need this for school, the 14" will treat you a bit better in terms of portability and energy efficiency, although there won't be a big difference between the screen sizes in energy efficiency.

mbreslin1954

Distinguished
Nov 27, 2010
136
0
18,660
I would always go for the larger and better screen. The primary way you interact with the PC is through the screen, so the more you can fit on the screen and the easier it is to see, the better your experience will be. But of course it all has to be balanced with your budget.
 
1. Yes - http://cpuboss.com/cpus/Intel-Core-i5-3230M-vs-Intel-Core-i3-3120M

2. It's nice to have, but I can't see why you would be in dire need of dedicated graphics for programming. The Intel CPU can handle movies just fine.

3. I'd say it's just about always worth it. You will better "future proof" yourself with an i5. As software becomes more demanding, the i5 will be better able to keep up than the i3.

4. It's true: LEDs consume less power than CCFL panels. If you need this for school, the 14" will treat you a bit better in terms of portability and energy efficiency, although there won't be a big difference between the screen sizes in energy efficiency.
 
Solution