Intel C2 Duo T5500 & T5600 different?

Hi. I wonder is there any performance different between Intel T5500 & T5600? I would love T7200 but I couldnt afford it? The notebook I plan to purchase comes with T5500 but I can afford the upgrade. Adobe Photoshop is my top priority. Thank you

 

The difference between a Core 2 Duo T5500 and T5600 is not significant at all, because they both have the same L2 cache size (2 MB). Since most computers aren't constrained by clock speeds, but rather things like caches, multipliers, and voltage, there really isn't much real world difference between a T5500 and T5600.

However, when you jump to the T7200, you will see a performance difference because of the substantially larger L2 cache (4 MB). If you can afford the T7200, most people will recommend that you get that processor. The T7200 is the most cost effective chip in the Core 2 Duo lineup. Thus, if you buy a T7200, you will get the best performance to money spent ratio.

 

If Adobe Photoshop is your top priority, I'd go for the most powerful CPU you can afford, you'll appreciate the extra power. It is a very processor- and memory-dependent application. Make sure you have 1GB of memory at the very least; 2GB is ideal, especially if you will be running Vista.

 

There's not too much difference between the T5500 and the T5600. I'd make the jump to the T7200 -- the extra power and larger cache is worth it.

 

Thanks, looks like I am doom to spend more.

 

I think T7200 isn't that cost effective anymore since it is more in demand, and so they charge more for it now.

 

You also have no experience with the T7200, gofishus. Try one out as compared to your machine, and you'll see the difference. Not to mention the Core 2 really speeds things up as compared to the Core.

I'd go with the T7200. The T5600 is probably fast enough for you to work, but it won't stay fast as time progresses and software is upgraded.