Description
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the heart of any computer. Think of it as the main intersection, in the middle of a city and all traffic must pass through it. A speedier CPU means traffic can pass through faster, which means faster-running programs, but usually, it also means lower battery life and a more expensive laptop.
Dual Core is an older CPU and means that the processor has 2 cores processing information. Intel's Core i3 to Core i7 processors are newer and faster than dual cores and Core i5 is a step up (faster) over the Core i3 and Core i7 is a step up over Core i5 but every time you take a step up in technology, the price also goes up, so its a matter of balancing budget with needs.
There are also generations of processors. For example Core i5 1st Gen, 2nd Gen, 3rd Gen and so on. Each new generation represents improvements over the previous generation. Generally speaking, 2nd Gen CPUs are on average, 12% more powerful than 1st Gen and 3rd Gen CPUs are on average 6% more powerful than 2nd Gen CPUs. This means 3rd Gen is 18% more powerful than 1st Gen. There is a line where the generation and technology collide. For example, a first generation i7 might be slower than a fifth generation i5.
If you are new to this stuff, it can all become quite confusing and I think it is important to shop at a place where you feel you can ask honest questions and get honest answers.
Dual Core (also called Core 2 Duo): Older but good enough for basic stuff like checking your email, basic web browsing and general business applications like word processing. Priced $99 - $199
Core i3: A step up over the Dual Core and does much the same stuff, just a little faster. Priced $140 - $195
Core i5: Another step up and better than a Core i3. As you increase CPU speed, the system become more versatile and better able to manage more applications, quickly. Priced $165 - $345
Core i7: Another step up and better than a Core i5. If it is in your budget, you want versatility and you don't like to wait, then i7 is the way to go. Add an SSD and 8gb RAM and you are off to the races. Priced $250 and up.
Please keep in mind that while processor has a significant affect on price, there are other factors that also affect price, such as screen size, video component, amount of RAM, size and type of hard drive.
