iMac 27-inch 3.2GHz Intel Core i3 processor (2010) vs 2.66GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i5

[Dracoy]

The second one is 09. Any opinions on which to buy?

 

[bossxii]

i3.

Most programs doesn't take full advantage of quad core CPU's. I say most, as in most consumer level programs such as iMovie, iPhoto etc.. Plenty use the dual core and 3.2 vs 2.66 will net you more speed for general tasks. The i3 with turbo boost will hit 3.8Ghz? or something like that. The only program that seem to tax the quad core and use hyper threading seemed to be Handbrake, which if that is your main use, and a program does take advantage of quad core CPU... the quad core is a no brainer. Otherswise I personally would go with the new technology in the i3.