m1530 processor and memory questions

Currently checking out the *Best* option on dell.com

I see a lot of people here tend to answer to those who ask about the processor that they won't really notice the difference between a 2.2/2.4/2.6GHz that it's really the cache that makes the difference. Is it actually useful at all to upgrade from the default 2.0 GHz with that logic.

As for memory, it comes with 3GB and 250$ to upgrade to 4GB. I know some people say *you never have enough RAM* which is to me, semi-true. 250$ for an additional GB is quite steep. People with 3 GB, do you notice any performances problems with your m1530? Would it be a good idea to wait for the memory price to go down a bit and upgrade later?

 

3GB vs. 4GB isn't going to make a difference worth paying $250 over. Plus:
- note that 32-bit Vista will max out at 3GB. It can't use the additional 1GB
- Dell most likely ships with 32-bit Vista

Having said that, if you plan to run 64-bit Vista, you should get the 3GB option anyway. It will be in 2 modules of 1GB and 2GB. Buy a 2GB module from crucial.com and replace the 1GB -- that should get you to 4GB and save you $150 compared to Dell's pricing. Replacing the memory is easy and usually isn't a warranty-voiding action (but don't quote me on that ).

About the processor: the default 2.0GHz (T7250) has a 2MB L2 cache -- all other options have 4MB. So the first upgrade may be worth it ($75 for the T7500 currently) but is by no means necessary.

 

I would get the ram with as little as possible and upgrade to the 4gb kit yourself. 4gb sells for $65 -> see my link in tech deals section, or you can get single 2gb sticks for about 35. As for the processor, processor speed doesn't directly equal a faster computer. First its ram, then its hard drive speed (7200rpm is faster than 5400rpm) then processor -> for everyday tasks i mean.

 

thank you for your answers