More cores help with parallel builds, containers, and virtual machines, but lightly threaded work still benefits from fast individual cores. Check benchmarks for your actual compiler and workload instead of relying on a single synthetic score.
What matters in practice
Memory is often the most valuable upgrade for developers running browsers, IDEs, containers, and local services together. Fast solid-state storage improves indexing and dependency operations, while quiet cooling preserves sustained performance.
A useful rule
A clear display, reliable keyboard, good chair, and dependable backup strategy often improve daily work more than the last tier of processor performance. Optimize the complete working environment.