Better CPU or better GPU

Robi_g · August 20, 2014

So I'm buying a new laptop and after a good 4 days research I've decided on THIS with some option boxes ticked (Wireless AC, 1080p display, larger battery), then dropping in an SSD that I got a while back.

But I can't decide whether to upgrade the CPU from an i3-4000M to an i5-4200M or the GPU from HD4400 to a GT-G740M, I can only afford one of them.

Now the things I'll be doing that will tax it will be a bit of video editing with some gaming.

Will the improvement in CPU (which costs ~£20 more than the GPU upgrade) outweigh the improvement in gaming performance.

MrSir2552 · August 20, 2014

Graphics card will have more impact on the gaming in most parts. The processor will have more performance in heavily taxing things like picture and video editing and stuff like that. But I'd make sure the things can be switched out easily and that it's not soldered, unless you're able to switch out the slodered object.

Deletive · August 20, 2014

gt 740m can't really do much.

D2ultima · August 21, 2014

HD 4600

GT 740M

These are with pretty outdated drivers, but you can see what the performance looks like in general. I will say though, that the i5-4200M can run VERY hot. Very. Hot. So be careful if you're going to do a whole bunch of CPU-related tasks with it. I don't know how great Lenovo's cooling is and Haswell is a blast furnace.

That being said, if you haven't already @Robi_g I suggest you check out this sub-forum and give your needs, location and budget and see what people turn up for ya.You might be surprised and find a decent system you wouldn't have normally found.