Intel 3rd or 4th generation processor--which?

qualityshopper · ‎12-04-2011

I've been checking out different desktops to purchase since I need to update from XP. (I mentioned in another post that my existing computer just can't handle the upgrade.) Even though AMD is cheaper, I prefer Intel. Just wondering, though, if I should go with the new 4th generation ones or the 3rd gens. Don't use my computer to do any gaming (just the silly little games once in a while on HSN) or to stream movies. Just check email, shop, research, and watch some YouTube videos. Real exciting, huh? Anyway, would appreciate knowing if it would make any real difference as to which generation. Thanks!

gardenman · ‎03-09-2010

Honestly, for how you use a computer it won't matter. In fact, you don't even need a computer to do most of that. If you want a desktop type solution you can get one of the Asus Chromeboxes (link below) that for $179 will pretty much do everything you need to do.

http://promos.asus.com/us/chrome-os/chromebox/

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2105768/asus-chromebox-m004u-review-web-based-life-in-desktop-form-ju...

Even some of the newer video game consoles can do most of you want to do and would let you do it from your living room TV. Nintendo's Wii U is the lowest priced next gen gaming console at $299, but you can pretty much do everything you want to do from it. (I'm not sure about the HSN games.) The Wii U has the added bonus of coming with a Gamepad (like a tablet) that lets you surf the web while watching TV.

I certainly wouldn't worry about getting the latest and greatest processor if that's all you use a computer for.

Fly!!! Eagles!!! Fly!!!

Nuttmeg · ‎03-09-2010

I would buy an Intel i5-4 Gen processor, with 1TB HD, and 8GB of memory. I usually buy Dell XPS desktops. I would suggest a basic XPS 8700. You can call the company, and ask which monitor goes with this system. I have been running my XPS 8300 without a problem. I usually leave my computer on 24-7.

When I buy a new computer, I usually need a new monitor. I purchase the monitor separate. It usually comes with a three year warranty. If you buy it with a system, it will have the same warranty as the computer. Most customers do not know this.

Lynnj · ‎03-21-2010

On 3/18/2014 nutmeg3 said:
I would buy an Intel i5-4 Gen processor, with 1TB HD, and 8GB of memory. I usually buy Dell XPS desktops. I would suggest a basic XPS 8700. You can call the company, and ask which monitor goes with this system. I have been running my XPS 8300 without a problem. I usually leave my computer on 24-7.

When I buy a new computer, I usually need a new monitor. I purchase the monitor separate. It usually comes with a three year warranty. If you buy it with a system, it will have the same warranty as the computer. Most customers do not know this.

I agree. You mentioned that you don't do gaming with the computer, but the video watching and you tube type of stuff you do demands high processor and RAM for smooth picture. The specs nutmeg lists above would be good. If you think you will have a few programs open at the same time while watching videos, might even want to look into am i7 with 16gb RAM. (If money is not an issue and you want to its bang for your buck). This would ensure you would have no issue of freezing while watching video....provided you have a good internet connection (of course).

glb613 · ‎03-09-2010

My iMac has a Intel i5 processor and it does anything I want including playing games and photo editing.

qualityshopper · ‎12-04-2011

Thanks all of you for your advice. I've got a lot of comparison shopping to do so I can get the best price for whichever computer I get. You've all given me a lot of useful information which I really appreciate.

Nutmeg3--Thanks for letting me know about how warranties differ for separate purchases of monitors. I never knew about that.

autumnsunset · ‎03-10-2010

On 3/20/2014 qualityshopper said:
Thanks all of you for your advice. I've got a lot of comparison shopping to do so I can get the best price for whichever computer I get. You've all given me a lot of useful information which I really appreciate.

Nutmeg3--Thanks for letting me know about how warranties differ for separate purchases of monitors. I never knew about that.

Good luck on finding you a new computer I been out looking also we have a HP 20 inch all in one it's been a good computer but it's going on 8 years and I wanted a laptop had a 23 inch HP with a tower years ago but took up too much room.

I been reading articles on different websites decided to buy a 17 in Dell Intel i5 with 4 generation processor 1TB 8GB of memory I know several people who have Dell's and highly recommend them. Just do your research and I'm sure you will find you a new computer.

PiPhiAngel · ‎03-20-2014

Intel 4th generation processors are great. Look for comparative reviews on the processors. You will find that Intel processors stage for stage outperform AMD. From comparisons AMD processors run slower & hotter & are less energy efficient than Intel Processors. Intel 4th generation processors are listed with a number (3 or 4 digits) with the higher numbers being the most advanced/most recently released. AMD does have some good integrated graphics capability but overall Intel outperforms AMD.

Dell computer i7 intel processors (4th generation) look great but they are having issues shipping QVC orders. So recommend the i7 intel 4th generation processors but perhaps from different computer makers (Apple, Toshiba etc).