Memory/CPU upgrade for my T410?

Hello, I'm not that great with computers, but I just have a couple of simple (if not, dumb) questions. I am trying to order the T410 online this coming Monday.

1) i5 540m 2.66ghz CPU or i7 620m 2.66ghz CPU?
I don't do programming or play games that much, but I would like my computer to be as fast as it can be. If I am not a hard-core user but want fast daily operations, would that bump in CPU make a difference?(I understand that that kind of speed depends on HDD, but I wouldn't want to compromise HDD space, and certainly much more money per GB for a speedy SSD)

2) I am planning on upgrading the RAM to 8GB. I will have one 2GB ram stick in the laptop. Would this ram be compatible with the T410? ( Newegg.com - Crucial 8GB (2 x 4GB) 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM DDR3 1066 (PC3 8500) Laptop Memory Model CT2KIT51264BC1067.

3) About RAM upgrade... Are there any specific instructions to installing new rams? From what I know, there is one DIMM slot on the bottom and one on under the keyboard. Do I just remove the 2gb ram that comes with the thinkpad and install the two 4GB rams once I get the Thinkpad in the mail? Would it automatically recognize the rams? I'm quite doubtful as it sounds... maybe a little too simple(or maybe that's what's so good and easy about it? )

OK thanks for your patience in reading my Q's and please excuse my shallow knowledge in the subject. I will be waiting for your responses.

 

Rather than the CPU, a good SSD will make more of a difference if you're not in low power mode. Typical usage doesn't really push the CPU that much. Better yet, put the SSD in your T60. That's much more cost effective than a new machine.

Unless you've got a specific need to run memory intensive apps like VMs for example, the extra memory is a waste of money.

 

The i7 620m is the faster processor. You would notice a difference, but if not gaming, probably not a noticable difference. Hard drive speed, I wouldn't worry about that too much if you weren't going to blow money on a SSD.

The memory should be compatible as the front side matches and the pin orientation is correct for DDR3 notebook RAM. If you put in 8GB of RAM your notebook will be maxed out on memory. If you are really concerned about compatibility, there should be a compatibility list on Lenovo's site that ensures which brand of modules should work with that unit.

You will have to remove the 2GB stick in order to insert the 2 4GB sticks. If there are only two DIMMs then you will have to pull the 2GB in order to use both 4 GB sticks.

 

You can see a side-by-side comparison of the two processors at Compare Intel® Products,

I seriously doubt most users would notice a performance difference.

$90 for 8GB of RAM is a nice deal and if you run a lot of applications at one time, you will benefit. This assumes you are running some pretty memory hungry applications. Most users don't need more than 4GB of RAM. The T410 has a free memory upgrade from 2GB to 4Gb right now (2x2GB). Might be all you ever need.

I totally agree a good SSD drive is a wise investment. If your T60 is like my T60p or T61p's, the screens and such are starting to show their age. I'm not sure I would make any investments in the older platform.

 

Thank you all for your thoughts. My T60 is actually running strong like new even after nearly 4 hours of usage. But it's being used by another member of the family.

Your recommendations are highly appreciated! Thanks.

 

I'd advise that you choose the i5 processor instead of the i7. For the price difference, it's not worth it as you won't see real-life differences.

Even the specs are identical and you'll get more battery life with the i5.

I jumped in to the i7 and kinda regretting since I could've used that $180 for something else :\

I also went from the standard 250GB 5400RPM drive to an OCZ Vertex 2 120GB SSD. Difference was night and day. Boots in less than 10 seconds, shuts down in about 2-3 seconds.

 

that ram should work right out of the box unless you receive it a DOA. i got this g.skill 8gb Newegg.com - G.SKILL 8GB (2 x 4GB) 204-Pin DDR3 SO-DIMM DDR3 1066 (PC3 8500) Laptop Memory Model F3-8500CL7D-8GBSQ if you to see improvement on your system, you should get a ssd like guys mentioned above. I also did it for my setup see my signature lol. I feel like my t410 is faster than my i5 750 @ 4ghz. lol

 

oh yeah remember if u are going with 8gb, you need x64 windows, mine came with 32bit 7 pro preinstalled, i wiped it out and installed x64, if u try to activate windows, disconnect your laptop from the internet and activate it by phone, you just have to read the numbers from columns from A - G i believe and the bot will give you some codes. good luck

 

For general usage which is what you seem to be doing - get the free 4GB upgrade from Lenovo and get the Core i5. Spend then $280 saved on nice OCZ 120GB SSD and you'll be all set when it comes to performance. Getting a Core i7 would be a waste, a Core Duo in your T60 is more than fast enough to handle everything any HDD can push out.