i7-4700MQ vs 4600M tradeoffs

[BorgDog]

I'm getting a new laptop which will be my only computer, and am wondering for what I do how much of a hit I will take if I get a computer with a 2 core vs a 4 core processor. The 2 in question are the i7-4700MQ and i7-4600M (presumably what will come in Thinkpad X240). I don't do any gaming, but do a fair amount of work in Handbrake and Photoshop, and some time in Premiere and a occasional CAD work. I don't know enough about the programs to know if they would take advantage of the extra cores of the MQ. Please advise. Thanks.

 

[Zodiark1593]

Since this is your only computer, and you mention video encoding and CAD, a dual core should not. be up for consideration. No question about it, get the i7-4700QM. Now, if you had a good desktop already, I'd have been more ammendable to a dual core, but since this will be your only pc, I strongly recommend getting the most powerful laptop within your budget.

In the programs you mentioned, you should see a near doubling of performance going from dual core to quad core. I say near because of the clock speed differences.