In any case, you can visit our CPU Comparator
to see just how your three chip choices compare. As the Comparator
shows, the fastest system in your list (whether it comes with a Pentium-III
600 or 667MHz processor) will only be approximately 10-20% faster than
option (b). Arguably as important in your decision will be the higher
memory complement and larger hard drive of the faster system. The 128MB
RAM model will definitely provide more pleasing performance for the
additional price premium. If you can afford it, go for option (c) and your
desktop will last a few more years before you will be wanting to upgrade.
Option (b) and its Celeron 600 will
perform well for general office applications and internet use, although it
may not be the best for the latest, greatest action games. It is
upgradeable to 700MHz and beyond, as long as Intel continues to restrict
its Celerons to the 66MHz bus design.
However, that will be changing next year, as it is predicted that Celerons
will jump to 100MHz bus speed motherboards as Intel's Pentium-4
line takes hold.
The CPU
Scorecard assumes no risk or liability for damage or loss due to
the use of the information or advice provided here. All responses are
based on the best available information at the time of writing. However,
users of this information who wish to apply it to their computer
situations do so at their own risk.
