I am more convinced that a 2-3yr old CPU, compared to its equivalent latest model, won't affect performance much anymore. Jus have an adequate amount of RAM.

Its powerconsumption.

That and using an SSD. Single best upgrade you can make

@xroad An SSD is all I'm missing. But I use a 2011 laptop.

@jirehstudios if it's upgradeable you'll still see a major boost in performance

It really depends, but overall, you're correct.

It's rare that anything other than the newest games or intensive video processing really tests your hardware. But SSDs have become essential for me - couldn't use a machine without one now. I ended up getting my last Windows laptop custom spec'ed because I couldn't find something off the shelf that came with a sensible spec and an SSD.