[GRLUG] hardware specs help

[John-Thomas Richards]

On Mon, Apr 30, 2012 at 09:26:18AM -0400, Michael Mol wrote:
> Should be fine for that.

Huh.  If I opt for the 14.1" display (same resolution as the 15.6") I
can get the i5 2450M (still only 2 cores, plus hyperthreading) for ten
bucks LESS.  Are display panels still that expensive?

> On Apr 30, 2012 9:24 AM, "John-Thomas Richards" <jtr at jrichards.org> wrote:
> 
> > On Mon, Apr 30, 2012 at 09:01:28AM -0400, Michael Mol wrote:
> > > Be aware that there is a *significant* performance difference between the
> > > i3 and i5, in terms of normal CPU capability. I'd rather buy a refurb
> > > midrange laptop than a new i3.
> >
> > This laptop will only be used to display song lyrics and an occasional
> > video, while recording audio.  Is the i3's performance still a concern?
> >
> > > On Apr 30, 2012 8:25 AM, "John-Thomas Richards" <jtr at jrichards.org>
> > wrote:
> > >
> > > > LUG,
> > > >
> > > > I am probably going to order a laptop today.  I have a question
> > > > regarding specs / performance.  I have my choice narrowed down to two
> > > > manufacturers.  The laptops have nearly identical specs with two
> > notable
> > > > exceptions.  They are:
> > > >
> > > > Laptop 1                        Laptop 2
> > > > ==============================================================
> > > > Core i3 2350M 2.3GHz            Core i5 2450M 2.50GHz
> > > > nVidia 540M 1GB                 Intel High Definition Graphics
> > > > $1,097                          $923
> > > >
> > > > The only experience is have with Intel graphics is several years ago
> > > > when it was merely passable.  Is the Core i3/nVidia combo worth $174
> > > > over the Core i5/Intel HD combo?
> > > >
> > > > Both laptops come with Linux preinstalled.  If I go with the nVidia
> > > > system, I would run the binary drivers.
-- 
john-thomas
------
The man's desire is for the woman but the woman's desire is rarely other
than for the desire of the man.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge, poet (1772-1834)