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Here's a benchmark link to help you out:
http://www23.tomshardware.com/cpu_2007.html
it shows how long the processor took to complete the test (less time is better)
heres another:
http://www.cpubenchmark.net/
(more points is better this time)
Theres no real number to gauge these things either...10, 20 , 30% are all generalities. It doesnt really apply to any specific programs.
Just say 2.4 is a little faster than 2.2 and the more ram you have, the faster the computer runs.
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Just put it this way:
If you had extra cash then follow these steps:
1. upgrade your ram to 2GB. Between ram and cpu, ram makes your computing experience NOTICEABLY faster. The reason I say 2 GB is because you probably won't notice any difference if you bought more than 2GB (its like buying something just to have more of, but you'll never use it).
2. Between which processor to choose, there's no right or wrong answer. Its all relative to how much the person is willing to spend, and what they'll be using the computer for.
Between a 2.2 and 2.4 cpu, the 2.4 is faster, but experience wise, the difference is so small that you won't be able to tell. Thats why i said upgrade ram first (to 2GB).
What if the laptop already have 2GB? Then just upgrade the cpu if you want the best, but like i said you won't be able to notice the difference. If you already have the fastest cpu, and still some cash to spend, then go ahead and upgrade to 4GB ram (althought really an unnecessary upgrade).
Its not a question of whats better/faster than the other. Its more about learning to prioritize your upgrades. Ram first (up to 2GB) then cpu. Using this information, you will need to do some math (looking at prices of the laptops) to offer the best one to the mums and dads.
ex: laptop A: 2.2ghz with 2GB ram for $700 or
laptop B: 2.4ghz with 2GB ram for $900?
from what i told you, theres almost no noticeable diff. between 2.2 and 2.4 right? That makes laptop A the better deal even though laptop B is faster. If they have the extra money to buy the better one then go ahead, its their money right? I would recommend laptop A though.