Dell XPS M1530 processors

I'm set on getting a dell xps m1530 for college. The way I see it I have three paths to take. My first option is to buy the Intel Core 2 Duo T9500 running at 2.6 ghz. My second choice is to buy the measly Intel Core 2 Duo T7250 running at 2.0 ghz and switch it out for an Intel Core 2 Duo Extreme x9000 I can get from a friend for a reasonable price, around $400. My third option is to just wait for the Montevina platform or Nehalem processors. What do ya guys think? Also, does anybody think the Core 2 duo extreme x9000 will cause any overheating issues? Thanks.

 

Wait for montevina.It's about a month to go.

 

The x9000 will heat the laptop up too much...do not assume it is safe to use.

 

Why not T8300 or T9300?

 

The T8300 and T9300 are definitely still possibilities. I'm going to take Greg's advice and not get the x9000. I did have worries that it would heat up the laptop too much. Now I have to decide whether or not to wait for Montevina or Nehalem. This close to Montevina's release I fear that I will buy too early and pay for it later down the road. I also don't want to pay any more for the Montevina platform unless there are major improvements over Penryn. I'm kinda stuck here...

 

Montevina will still use Penryn processors AFAIK. They're just lower power draw ones, meaning less heat produced, so you can cram a little more power in . So basically, all that the first set of montevina processors will really offer is slightly improved battery life and performance.

 

I just really hope that the Montevina platform is not going to be much more expensive. I can get the Dell XPS m1530 configured to my needs with:

Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T9500 (2.6GHz/800Mhz FSB, 6MB Cache)
Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium Edition SP1
4GB Shared Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz (2 Dimms)
Full Hi Definition, glossy widescreen 15.4 inch LCD (1920x1200) & 2.0 M
256MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8600M GT
320GB 5400rpm SATA Hard Drive
Slot Load DVD+/-RW (DVD/CD read/write)
High Definition Audio 2.0
Dell Wireless 1395 802.11g Mini Card
56 WHr 6-cell Lithium Ion Primary Battery
Finger Print Reader XPS M1530

All for $1699.00.
If the Montevina platform will cost me more than $1800 for a similarly configured laptop, then IMO it's not worth it.

 

The T9500 is not worth it please stay away from it. I am begging here.

 

Hehe, do you mind if I ask why?

 

Because it is a waste of money. You won't notice a difference in performance from a T8300 which is a couple hundred dollars cheaper. You can use the money to invest in a 9 cell battery and the LED screen instead, unless you prefer the higher resolution.

 

I understand that there is not going to be much of a difference between a 2.4 and 2.6 processor but I want something that will last me just a little bit longer in the future. Also, I do not want to invest the money in the 9 cell battery because it changes the appearance of the laptop. (stupid reason, I know, but I have OCD when it comes to having a nice tight laptop) Lastly, I do prefer the high resolution over an LED screen. What I'm really looking for here is an answer on whether or not to buy now or wait for Montevina or Nehalem. But you guys are helping me out nonetheless and I appreciate it.
Edit: I just looked at the topic below this one and sgogeta4, you answered my question perfectly.

 

Glad to be of help, even if I didn't answer your exact question in this exact post

 

On to the CPU comment I made. sgogeta4 got it correct for the most part. I do favor the T8300 but if you want to spend $125 for 100Mhz and double the L2 of the T9300? That I can live with, little speed lots of L2, OK. Now if you want to go for 100Mhz no increase in L2? For $275? I think that is a waste of money. If anyone disagrees please post as I am making a special list and want to make sure to get you on on it. I am very aware that much is overkill. And I as much as the rest am very much for people buying above their needs. But the T9300 to T9500 and cost I just can't get behind. Less than 4%.

 

While I agree that the T8300 is more than enough and the performance of any higher processor is practically negligible (and unless the upgrade is less than $75, I personally wouldn't even upgrade to T9300), if people have money and want to spend it - well it's their money, you've made your suggestions. I think what bothers you most is the fact that people ask whether they should buy something and don't listen to you cuz they just want someone to justify the purchase, which they would have made anyways

 

I am cool no matter how OP goes. And as long as they know more power to them. I can understand T9300 for $125 (I agree more than I think worth). But as long as OP knows difference and cost of T9300 to T9500 go for it. Most of us do buy above our own needs so hard for me to be critical of what is right and what is not for someone else. Now he is aware and personal choice. I certainly do upgrades that only make sense to me.

So to OP follow your gut what ever you think is best for you.

 

get the t9300. best bang for the buck

 

Well I'm not sure what I'm going to do now , but whatever decision I make I thank all of you for your input and suggestions.