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    Where's the sweet spot for CPU now in Vostro 1400

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by Jabberwhacky, Oct 2, 2007.

  1. Jabberwhacky

    Jabberwhacky Notebook Guru

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    It used to be an easy decision since there were big price jumps for substantial upgrades, such as going from 667mhz to 800mhz FSB, and going from 2mb cache to 4mb. Now, however, they are offering lots more options. Here's the choices:

    1.4ghz (2mb / 800mhz) Included in price
    1.6ghz (2mb / 800mhz) +50
    1.8ghz (2mb / 800mhz) +130
    2.0ghz (4mb / 800mhz) +210
    2.2ghz (4mb / 800mhz) +300

    I can still rule out the 2.2ghz, I don't see a measly 200mhz increase to be worth 90 bucks. However, those lower ones are a real kicker. Anyone able to guide me in the right direction? This is going to be for gaming, but since it's a laptop using an 8400GS, I'm not expecting awesome performance: I just want the most bang for my buck. I do have a mystery coupon to use, so you can effectively chop off 25% of the price, and doing so makes that 2.0ghz with 4mb cache look enticing at just 152.50. How much longevity would that add over keeping the 1.4ghz?
     
    Jabberwhacky, Oct 2, 2007
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  2. iafzal3

    iafzal3 Notebook Evangelist

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    Not sure how much the CPU speed will be the bottle neck in gaming rather it may be the 8400GS.
    my 2cents
     
    iafzal3, Oct 2, 2007
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  3. Diversion

    Diversion Notebook Deity

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    The sweet spot is where it costs less to upgrade to the next speed up and you stop where it costs more to make it to the top.. It's a $80 difference from 1.6 to 1.8 as well as 1.8 to 2.0 .. But then costs $90 to go from 2.0 to 2.2.

    2.0 looks like the sweet spot for top performance at a good price.. I'd personally recommend the lowest speed you can get with 4mb cache.. which I think might be the 1.8ghz or 2.0ghz.. So just get the cheapest one with 4mb.

    Jay
     
    Diversion, Oct 2, 2007
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