Which is faster? i5 with SSD or i7 without?

mmcc120

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Jun 21, 2014
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4,510
I'm looking at two Lenovo laptops and would like advice on whether the processor speeds will be much different. They're the exact same cost, it's just a difference of processor and touch screen. My priority is for speed and efficiency. I use it for work, so I run some Adobe photoshop and InDesign, and word and excel, and i do a lot of multitasking. However, if the speed isn't that different, then I'd like the touch screen. But if it will be significantly different, then I don't need the touch screen.

One has a i5-4200U processor, but has a 500GB hard drive with a 8GB cache SSD. It also has 8 gb RAM, and a touch screen.

The other doesn't have touch screen, but has a i7-4700MQ processor with a 1TB 5400 RPM hard drive. Also 8 GB RAM.

Thanks for your input!
 
Solution
Personally, I would do neither.

But if those were the only two choices, I'd get the i5 with the hybrid drive. The 5400RPM drive will be the limiting factor with the i7 selection.

EdgeT

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Jan 8, 2009
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i7 hands down. The i5 you've mentioned is a dual core, it has the performance of an i3, whereas the i7 is a quad core. Get the i7 and when you have some extra cash get an SSD or a hybrid drive or whatever floats your boat.

If multitasking is your thing, quad core is a must. The difference is huge. Hope this help cya.