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Computer Conundrum
I need a new laptop but have no clue what to get or what features the computer should have. What difference does the type of processor make? What's the difference between Intel Core Duo, Pentium II, Pentium III etc? What about memory? How much is a normal amount and what does having more memory do for me?
The differences between Core Duo, PII and PIII is the chip design. The newest one is the Intel Core Duo line. These have two chips actually built into one. This will make your programs run MUCH faster and allow you to multitask on your computer much easier. Almost any laptop out now will have a Core Duo processor. Just buy the fastest one(highest GHz) you think is affordable. Usually the top of the line is just a tiny bit better but a lot more expensive so it really isn't worth it.
As for memory(RAM), the more you have the better. Do not get any laptop with less than 1 GB(1024 megabytes). Programs nowadays require lots of RAM to be able to run efficiently. If you plan on doing a lot of Photoshop, movie editing or gaming, you should try and get more RAM. But, for most people 1 GB will be more than enough.