Dell Laptop....Processor Question

[Tincup]

I am looking at purchasing a Dell Laptop (Inspiron 8600), and have a question about the types of processors Dell offers.

*For instance, with the 8600, I can choose between the PentiumM Processors (1.3 GHz - 1.7 GHz).

*With the 8500, I can choose between the Mobile Pentium 4-M (2.2 GHz - 2.6 GHz)

*With the 5150, I can choose an Intel Pentium 4 (3.06 GHz).

What is the difference between the three types of processors....and which processor would be the best of the three types. I would be using the laptop for just about everything.

Thanks in advance!

[Midknyte]

http://www.intel.com/home/notebook/centrino/index.htm?iid=ihc+home_menu_centrino&

[rsfnatik]

Hmm, I would assume speed (processing power). :) I'm more of an AMD user myself so I haven't kept on the P4 specs as much as I should.

Can you elaborate on "just about everything"? Some insight into your plans/requirements/expectations of this system will help determine which processor is right for you. Ultimately, your budget will have the final say. :)

[Tincup]

I would most likely use it for internet browsing, gaming, word processing and photo editing (at times).

I am looking specifically which processor would be the best of the three for tomorrow technology.

:)

[rmanet]

go here (http://www.intel.com/home/buying_guide/notebook.htm?iid=ihc+purchasecmt_rhc_buyingguide&)

click on the Compare Processor Performance and you'll see the various processors that benchmark the CPUs on performance - click thru the various CPUs and look at performance, battery life, etc. depending on the various apps you might be running.

1. wish I had your problem :t
2. there are important differences in the laptops you're looking at in terms of RAM, video display, etc. and whether you want a burner - battery life is also important....
3. all depends on your budget, and what you want (dvd alone, dvd/cdrw combo, etc.) the Centrino gets you the best bang for your buck in terms of power saving w/o hurting performance

here's another link (http://www.tomshardware.com/mobile/20030212/index.html) that might help, but don't let the CPU drive your decision alone

now, lots of guys will have other opinions I'm sure - happy shopping....