Processor speed vs memory for photo editing and a little multitasking?
My needs will be two-fold:
(i) Mostly using single apps on their own - Word, Photo editing, Web browsing
(ii) Less often doing the above while listening to web radio or other 'small' multi-tasking procedures.
The choice is between 2 processor/memory set-ups
(i) 1.86 Ghz, 533 Mhz FSB, 2MB cache with 1GB memory
(ii) 1.73 Ghz, 533 Mhz FSB, 2MB cache with 2GB memory
The price difference is negligable and not a factor.
The question: which is 'better' for my intended uses? Slightly faster processor, or more memory?
Many thanks for taking the time to read this, and if you reply - thank you.
GW
Answers:
In my opinion you should get the 1.86ghz with 1GB simply because in the future you can always upgrade your ram while you cannot upgrade your processor. For about 70dollars online you can purchase 1gb of RAM and easily install it yourself.
If you plan on keeping the computer for more than a year, go with the 1.86ghz and when it gets too slow for what you need then you have room to upgrade. The 1.73ghz will leave you at a dead end and will force you to buy a new computer.
On the other hand, the speed increase from 1.73 to 1.86 is very minimal, nonetheless, noticeable and if it's a dual core processor this is a theoretical .26ghz increase in total speed.
You are much better going for the extra memory. The difference in processor speeds is negligible, but the amount of ram makes a huge difference. Although to be honest, for the uses you describe, 1GB would be fine, but you don't specify whether you would be using XP or Vista? If it's Vista definitely go for the 2GB ram model. (If it's a PC laptop that is)
The 1.73 with twice the ram will outperform the 1.86 easily.
you will want a good processor and at least 1 gb ram but it will go slower you may want to get 2 gb 4gb would be great memory doesnt make much difference although it does have a small part in it
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