Consumers benefit when new chips are introduced, because the price of existing chips tumbles.
Right now, 1-GHz chips are pricey. PCs using less hurried processors from 600 MHz to 933 MHz are a much better value, although 1 GHz will eventually fall within the grasp of average consumers. In fact, with speeds this fast, performance is no longer a factor in your purchase decision. Instead, service and support, warranty, extra features, and overall user experience become your key considerations. But remember, a 1-GHz system is more PC than most users will need.