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What size are you getting?
 
Doesn't that depend on what kind of apps you are running? Most apps can't utilize 4 cores can they? O will running multiple apps make use of the multiple cores? I honestly don't know, so I'm asking.

The i5 has Turbo of up to 3.3GHz, so it will be faster in single-threaded apps as well.
 
its the 21 inch and she is definitely not into video editing or anything like that but its her first computer and it would be nice if she could use it for the next 3-4 years.
 
its the 21 inch and she is definitely not into video editing or anything like that but its her first computer and it would be nice if she could use it for the next 3-4 years.

I'd get the 21 inch with the 2.5 i5. A great first computer for your child and should last the next 3-4 years.
 
The i5 will be a current chip for longer = better resale and 'feel' longer before you 'need' to upgrade.
 
The i5 will be a current chip for longer = better resale and 'feel' longer before you 'need' to upgrade.

I still think there's no need, my early 2008 MBP still runs nice and fast, no lag with browsing or anything. I expect it to be good for another couple years, may need a hard drive replacement but that's it. Only reason why I'd replace it is to get that massive battery life of newer models, as for the CPU it's perfectly fine.

Any refurbished computer you buy from Apple should last your daughter at least 3-4 years at least.
 
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