It really depends on what you're doing. I have a few I3 systems of varying kinds. For general surfing and productivity, it's fine (well, assuming you don't have something like 20 tabs open and active). You might want to do some optimizing, but for most people, it's fine. If I recommend an I5 or higher (or R5 or higher) it is usually to partially futureproof the computer or in anticipation of the person running the computer harder (eg, if they are buying now with them taking a database admin course in a few months). Sure the other things will benefit from the additional horsepower, but for most, it's part of the laws of diminishing returns.