MacBook or MacBook Pro?
There is a Mac in my future. There I said it.
The fact that I can run both the Mac OS and Windows on it if I need it is what finally sold me on the idea. I grew up on Macs and loved them. The fact that most of the super heroes I play with are on Mac and I can’t play with the same toys they have is getting a little old.
My debate at the moment is which one to get. I would LOVE your advice on it.
What I’ll be doing on the computer
- Writing
- PhotoShop (photo post production and such)
- Basic audio and video editing (nothing hardcore as I hate doing that stuff)
- New Media magic (aka surfing, twittering, virtual worlds, etc)
That is really what it boils down to. I’ll also be traveling with it so size is not the most important thing, it is a factor.
I’m just thinking that I don’t need the MacBook Pro for what I’m doing. It seems little overkill, but at the same time I don’t think I’d outgrow it as fast. I’m not sure.
What do you think?
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Had the same thoughts when I bought my MacBook. I already had the PowerBook, so I really wanted to follow that up with a MacBook Pro. But the truth is that the MacBook is powerful enough. I don’t work with Photoshop, but I do all the other stuff and it seems to be more than enough for me. Also, at 13″, the screen feels surprisingly big (my old PowerBook was 12″). So, for me, it came down to one question: Is it really worth CA$800 more for power I don’t really need? Clearly the answer was no.
Hope this helps.
I would get the macbook pro as you will have a beefier graphics card for virtual worlds. The quality of the laptop is much better too. I wish I would have gotten my wife a macbook pro.
Go Pro. The independent graphics card is more than worth it.
Wow, I post this and now Apple announced upgraded MacBook’s but it doesn’t look like the graphics card was updated. Hmmm….
Pro, for the graphics reasons stated above, and also because going forward you don’t want some of the bottlenecking that the non-pro model might leave you with. Build quality is another aspect which will make it longer-lived. Windows wise, would you be running Vista?
I’ve got a ‘Blackbook’ which I love dearly – use it for a lot of audio and video editing and for second life. Realistically SL will never perform as well on a mac as on a pc because of lack of dedicated graphics, but I have few complaints about its performance on the macbook. No regrets at all about not going pro.
Graphics card in the pro, the aluminum case, the actual resolution of the 15″ screen is much more usable than the 13″ (it gives you more cascading window room) and MOST important is the lighted keyboard. Nothing is worse than not being able to see the keys! (of course this is very important if you are a hunt and peck typist). And oh yes, we only make a Magstay PRO currently! so I could not recommend the MacBook.
[...] MacBook vs. MacBook Pro? [...]
I went through the same decision process dude… Picked the Pro, and haven’t regretted it for a single second.
But that’s just me…
Went for the black Macbook with 2Gb RAM and it is completely what I need – even for video editing and running both Ubunto and XP under Parallels.
I decided on the MacBook since I don’t need the high-end features for an extra $1,000. However, if you’ve got the money, I always advocate buying the most powerful thing you can possibly afford. After all, it’s obsolete the second you get the receipt, so get the model with the longest downhill coast.
Pax,
Matthew
I went with the Pro for the graphics reasons sited above. Also comparing the specs it was the most bang for my buck. I have a MacBook Pro 2.33GHZ 15in. Couldn’t justify the extra for the 17in. I didn’t upgrade anything when I bought it. I went with the glossy screen over the matte screen, videos look great. As you know I all but live in Second Life, so I can tell you the SL client for the Mac has a few issues, but over all not enough for me to worry about.
I got it thinking I would eventually run Windows also, haven’t had a need to install it as of yet.
oddly enough, i was just having this conversation with ryan moments before i saw your twitter. i’m getting my first laptopp and i’m thinking the pro because of the graphics card and second life… i also liked the feel of the keyboard better , and the placement of the speakers sounded better. i also don’t like the shiny screen, and i think i heard only the pro gives you the non-shiny option. i’ll have to check on that point.. i haven’t seen the lit up keys in action yet…. i can type with my eyes closed though, so no biggie for me.
CC, still have your connections with your former education employer? If you do you may want to look at Apple’s Educational discount. You may save enough that the Pro to make it worth buying one.
I have the MacBook and am very happy with it, but if I had the dough, I would get the MacBook Pro. Just make sure you get 2G ram and you’ll want to either upgrade the HD or get the Black version.
Go with either the 15″ or the 17″ Pro.
I have a 13″ MacBook and a 17″ MacBook Pro but I travel and primarily use the Pro. Virtual worlds like Second Life really needs the “out-board” video card.
I chose the 17″ Pro over the 15″ because I work with a mostly paperless company AND because I could get a superfast hard drive that was not available in the 15″.
I like to be able to have two application windows open such as a web browser and a word processor. When I am docked at home I have an external monitor I use as a second desktop.
Some might say its overkill or unnecessary, but it is a huge productivity booster even for “simple” computer use like you are describing.
Others argue that the 17″ machine is too big for on planes, but I can usually not open my 13″ MacBook if the person in front of me has their seat reclined in coach anyway.
That said, the 17″ opens up just fine on the Acela and Amtrak.
And besides, whether its 15″ or 17″, you still need to carry the same size “diaper bag” of power cords and accessories.
-Swords
The MacBook Pro has a better graphics card and FireWire 800 support. You’ll also want the larger screen for Photoshop and editing. I’m not a Mac guy, but I have to say, I’ve used the MacBook Pro as part of a portable editing suite (incl. DVCAM deck and external hard drives connected via FireWire) several times. I put it through its paces digitizing and editing a ton of footage and it ran like a champ for days at a time. I recommend it without hesitation.
As far as web stuff, I recommend using Firefox or Camino to browse. Safari is in dire need of a major release.
Two negatives on the MacBook Pro:
* It’s heavy. Carting one around is like slinging a cinder block over your shoulder.
* The ExpressCard/34 slot is fairly useless. I’m not sure why Apple included it instead of a PCMCIA slot. The number of manufacturers making devices utilizing ExpressCard/34 is comparatively miniscule, so you’re not going to get much “expansion” out of that expansion slot. The MacBook doesn’t have appear to have either ExpressCard/34 or PCMCIA, so as a feature comparison, that point is almost a wash.
I’ve been on the fence about switching from a PC to a Mac (well, at least dipping my toes into the Mac). I want it for the same reasons as you and I know the Mac Book Pro would be better for video editing so I’m leaning in that direction. I’m now thinking I may want to wait after Apple announced the updated Mac Book line today because the Mac Book Pro update may be next.
I look at the price for the Mac Book Pro and wonder if getting the basic Mac Book would be good enough for traveling and learning if the “Mac Life” is for me. I figure I could sell the Mac Book and move up to the Pro if needed. Decision, decisions.
-Tom
Since you work in SL, I would get the pro. SL on the MCbook just doesn’t look right most of the time. Plus with a pro you can run Final Cut later, if you want.
Get a MacBook Pro.
I’ve got a 15 inch pro and a 13 inch lightweight PC and find the extra screen real-estate makes an enormous difference to my productivity.
The better graphics and speed do make a difference, but its the screen size which is the main thing.
Great blog, by the way – I’ve put it on my personalised Google page!
Rusty.
Classic: “There is a Mac in my future. There I said it.” – CC
My retort: I feel your anxiety. Just tell me how much it costs. I’m curious about doing the switch too.
Cheers!
I’m planning on going Pro…doesn’t hurt to have the Firewire 800 port in addition to what’s been listed before.
Hey CC. I’ve had both of these macs (heck I think I’ve owned everything Apple’s put out for years now).
I sold my MacBook Core1Duo 2.0Ghz for the MBP Core2Duos when they were released. Instantly it felt like a better machine. The screen is SIGNIFICANTLY larger, the look and feel, it is certainly a better machine in the way it’s put together.
I also take price into consideration when buying my macs, and this has happened once quite some time ago, when the iBooks and PowerBooks were at the same stats, much like the MB and MBPs are now.
They both feature 2.0 or 2.16Ghz processors, 1 gig of ram (make sure to upgrade to 2 gigs aftermarket), and large enough hard drives to do whatever you need. The price difference now is around $800 from a MB and MBP, and all you get is a 2.1″ bigger screen and better video card.
Video editing would be better with the MBP, but everything else you want to do can be done just as well with the MB. I do love the MBP, and would never consider going back to the MB, but for the price the MB is the better deal right now. It obviously is always cheaper then the MBP, but currently it features the EXACT same specs on Processor, HD, Ram, etc.
Remember this, it is YOUR laptop, and YOU will be the one carrying it around all the time. You want to get a machine that you will feel happy with. If you buy the one you don’t really want, you will be kicking yourself EVERYY time you open up the laptop.
The weight difference is 5.1lb and 5.6lb (nothing noticeable). The size of the bag you will need will be the same as well, so portability is about the same with either model.
If I were to buy one right now, I’d say go with the price/performance aka the MB, but if you wait another month or two, the MBP will have upgraded processor specs and maybe the newer LCD monitors Apple is talking about.
In the end it is your decision, I say get the one that you WANT, but practically right now the MB is the better financial decision.
I can’t thank everyone enough for how great all this advice has been. All the REAL world experience and arguments on both sides. The variety of voices has been amazing.
And just remember, Chris Penn has that great post about what apps to put on first for all of us converts; He’s local for you, so tell him to make you the first contestant on the new game show I’m pitching : “Christopher S. Penn- Pimp My Drive!”
(there’s a slackercast in there somewhere…..
Whit
[...] this week I put out a call looking for input on if I should get a MacBook or a MacBook Pro. For some reason Apple.com doesn’t this this is valuable information and don’t do a [...]
When is the MBP coming out with an upgraded processor? I’m still hesitant about buying a MB or MBP – it just doesn’t seem like a lot more for $700 dollars. However, I want to be able to play wow, so I’m guessing that I need to go with the MBP. Any input from a gaming standpoint, I only play wow for the most part. The rest of the time it’s basic college and work related usage.
I think I am more confussed then ever on this topic. I am looking to buy my “soon to be” college student a MB or MBP. I am so on the fence. She is going to minor in graphic design so I was leaning towards the MBP but then you see the price difference for what?? A bigger screen and sep. graphics card? Is it really worth it?? Especially for a college student?
New MBP out today!!! Faster chipset, faster processors, LED monitor on the 15″
Any gaming, you should really either go with the MBP or spend the same amount but get the MB and build yourself a PC gaming box.
Susan – rest assured that any college with a decent graphic design program will have plenty of screaming top notch macs to do work on in the labs. However, if she is doing design work then the bigger screen and extra processing power will be worth it. But, a MB is still plenty powerful – unimaginable compared to the mac I was running photoshop, illustrator, and final cut pro just fine on 8 years ago
I’m a junior in high school and have used a PC all my life, but I’m sick of them and have decided it is time to change to a Mac. Of course, I can’t decide between a MBP or just the MB. I need it for all the normal school/everyday stuff as well as for advanced sound editing/engineering work. The larger screen is nice, but no big deal. I’m just concerned that in a few years the MB will be obsolete and the MBP will be a little less obsolete due to better expandability. Will not having a dedicated graphics card hinder performance and speed, or is it not worth the money? So many questions, but I need a flat answer. For the common person not doing graphical design or even playing many games, which one is going to be the safest/best bet?
Seth…I currently am considering both the mb and mbp. As a soon to be junior in college I am broke and currently own a 2.33 iMac 20″ and a 1.2 iBook. I want to upgrade (watching $$$) and from what I have researched the mb is just as nice as the mbp. I see the mb as a better deal its cheaper and more “disposable”, if you want a practical laptop go mb.
If budget is an issue, go with MB. If not, go with MBP.
I believe that for an investment such as a laptop, you should be cautious of spending money on other things so that you can afford such investments like the MBP.
IMO, don’t buy the MB for the purpose of saving money, because you would be saving money for the wrong reason. Go with the MBP if you can, and think twice next time you decide to spend money on something truly unnecessary.
I purchased the macbook pro (core duo) almost a year ago from my school for 1299 with apple care. Do you guys think its worth it for me to sell it to get a more up to date mbp or macbook?
Thanks to all for your valuable comments… I am on the edge of deciding MB vs MBP..Machine will be use primarily for web, email, minor photo and video editing and lot of movies during travel in car an plane. I looking forward to see the difference when connecting MB vs MBP to a HD projector for presentations and Movies. Occationally we also use my portable screen for outdoor movies and i am planning to use the laptop for screening. My wife is a student so i will be eligible for student discounts from apple. Thanks in advance for your inputs..
Senthill
Okay, I just bought a Macbook and I’m so used to desktops…the 13” screen is driving me CRAAAZY. Now I’m kind of wishing that I would have gotten the macbook pro. =[ I think I just need a bigger screen or something? Does anyone suggest something? Is there a way I can sell this and get a macbook pro? I mean, I’ve only had the macbook for two days so far.
I just bought a Macbook at a student bookstore, and also would prefer a bigger screen. But so many people love it who had bigger screens before, I know I can just adjust. If not, I have 30 days to turn it in/ pay for a pro, you prolly have something like that too. But I’m likely sticking to the macbook; everyone likes theirs so much that I’m not worried.
Thirty day thing? What’s that?
I think I’m starting to get used to it though.
Very useful to read all the comments…thanks
Another question – One of the main things for me is the difference between the glossy and matte screen – am leaning toward MBP over MB because of matte preference (and 15″).
Any comments?
I opted for the one without the glossy screen so that I could work outside easier. I was worried about too much glare with the glossy one
MacBook or MacBook Pro?
I glad to see that I am not the only one struggling with this dilemma.
I’ve been a “MacGeek” (as my friends call me) since 1997 when I bought an iMac for my product design degree – ‘cause everyone knows Mac are better at this kind of thing – apparently. Some friends at Uni had PowerMacs. I thought they were too expensive, and I never really noticed the difference with the software we were using. It was only after we got our hands on some “Industry standard” software that the iMac fell down. I primarily ran Photoshop, Strata Studio and Imagine and I never had any real problems except when trying to do a complex filter on a large image or create a complex 3D model. The iMac served me well and did all that I asked of it, it is even running happily under OSX today, although it has pretty much been relegated to internet and iTunes use.
In 2003 I bought a G3 iBook as I was going travelling and back to Uni. I thought about the PowerBook, but once again I thought it too expensive for my needs. My little G3 has been a complete trooper. My design stuff is on hold, but I still use photoshop (7) on it and it works fine. Once again, heavy filters on large images slows her down, but nothing too long, gives me an excuse to go and make a cup of tea.
So, why do I want a new laptop? Simply put I want to be able to use all the new software and games. I want Photoshop CS3, I want to be able to create DVDs and MP4s and I really want to play with Garage Band. Most of this is impossible on a G3, and although I can run Garage Band I have to keep my track number below 5 otherwise my little G3 processor has a tantrum.
Naturally, because of my designy, photoshopy, arty crafty tendencies, I’m leaning toward the MacBook Pro. This is primarily because of the words – NVIDIA GeForce. I have been led to believe that this is a good make, and an independent card is best. I am currently scouring the web to find some technical backup for these theories and have as yet found nothing of use. Except of course the page where I find I am not the only one suffering.
Things have been made even more complicated because yesterday I came across this company’s website and almost had an impulse to buy.
http://www.axiotron.com/index.php?id=modbook
It is essentially a hardware modification for a MacBook that converts it into “the only Tablet Mac” ever. It is very cool. You can up the Ram to 3Gb, install GPS and even swap out the DVD drive for a 2nd HD if that takes your fancy.
However, the dilemma remains. Is the MacBook graphics card capable for a life of design. I’m not a pro, maybe intermediate, so perhaps it is. I would just like to know for certain. Is the extra cost worth it in the real world. If I was a professional I wouldn’t hesitate and buy the desktop Mac, but a laptop to cover all bases… I just can’t decide.
I’ve had friends ask me whether to buy a Mac over a PC, and this is easy. I simply tell them to think about what they want to do, what software they want to run and whether they like viruses. I just don’t know about the MacBook vs MacBook Pro.
Help me too…
get the macbook pro. i also had a dispute between the macbook and the pro. after reviewing ratings and comparing specs, for an extra 500-800 dollars, the macbook pro seems to be the better option and a better offer. see for yourself:
macbook:
13″ display
1.09 in thick
mini dvi to screen wire(sold seperately)
1 gb ram standard (upgrade optional, extra $)
80 gb memory standard (upgrade optional, extra $)
comes in black (matte finish) and white (glossy finish)
glossy screen only
5-7 hours of battery life (working)
3-4 hours (music and/or videos)
shared video memory card (slower and shared)
changeable battery
rechargeable battery
macbook pro:
15″ or 17″ display
1 in thick
dvi to screen wire (comes with computer)
2 gb ram standard (upgrade optional, extra $)
120 gb memory standard (upgrade optional, extra $)
comes in stylish bullet silver
both matte and glossy screen (option)
6-8 hours of battery life (working)
4-5 hours (music and/or videos)
video card 128 or 256 mb (for games and other things)
changeable battery
rechargeable battery
my friend has the black macbook, and compared by style and and speed, the macbook pro prevails any way. trust me, get the pro, the pro’s choice!
matte is a screen that is not shiny, like normal screens
glossy is a screen that is shiny(for better quality for movies, pictures, and games)
also, the lighted keyboard and the sensored ambient light helps see the keys and screen a lot easier(another cool and useful feature)
That’s pretty much what I’ve been thinking.
I think I’m kinda getting hung up on the fact that as a laptop to carry around with me (I do a lot of travelling both domestic and international) the MacBook is a much better size. I know that there is barely any difference between weight, but the shorter dimensions are certainly more appealing.
Why, oh why haven’t Apple done a 13″ MacBook Pro? Or a MacBook Pro Tablet. The ModBook is a cracking idea, although I can get a much more powerful MacBook Pro for the same money…
I’ve just seen that there’s a new iMac out too. Perhaps I should save up a little further and get a 24″ iMac (I would want the 23″ Cinema display if I got the MacBook Pro) and a MacBook – looks to only cost £200 more (we get kinda ripped off in the UK).
This might solve all situations…?
i got an MBP (macbook pro) 17 it is overkill but with PS n stuff it isn’t overkill
it up to u
Hey guys, just finished reading all your entries and all, and i’m in the exact same situation! i’m ssoo obsessed about the MB and MBP at the moment, i won’t stop thinking about it until i know i get my hands on one of them…SO, i’m assuming for graphic related stuff like Photoshop/Illustrator/dreamweaver/Final Cut Pro, everyone is recommending to go the Pro???
To be honest, it’s about $1000AUS difference in price as i was looking at the middle range MP opposed to the lower end MBP…and to be honest, i prefer the look of the MB opposed to the MBP!!! and the smaller screen doesn’t bother me watsoever…i thknk it’s better to carry around and if i need a bigger screen or anything, i’ll just plug my LCD into it…so yeah……
BUT what i really really need to know is:
Is it really worth spending the extra $1000AUS to get the MBP opposed to the MB??? Can you seriously notice the difference in Final Cut Pro as it’s supposidly to be a “heavy program”??????
“Help me Obiwan Kenobi, you’re my only hope…”—>ok, that was a bit too geeky…lol
i think iam going to go for the MBP as it has better graphics etc and faster proccessor speeds than the MB although costs more worth it.
aaaahhhh, fair enough…yeah, i’ve decided i’m gonna go the MBP as well as i read up on the Final Cut Pro, and it ‘recommended’ 2GB of RAM but the minimum requirement is 1GB of RAM..so yeah….Go the Pro….
Plus, on top of that, i asked some people on http://www.whirlpool.net.au and they said to go the pro for the stuff i’ll be doing on it…..but dammit…it’s an extra $1000AUD…
Will be buying a macbook/macbook pro tomorrow. I’m a design major graduating in three years and would like the mac with the best chance of lasting me at least a year after graduation in the real world. I’m leaning towards the mac pro since it is the more powerful but will either be worth anything three years from now?
Get a MacBook Black with 2 gbs memory
oh man. I just bought the black macbook the other day and have been contemplating whether or not ot open it because I’ve been thinking about getting the pro. It’s about $300 more with the educational discount and as a devoted pc-user, I don’t know how well i’ll adjust to the 13-inch glossy screen (and the keyboard that’s not backlit). I’ll be using it for basic college purposes and stuff…so I don’t know what to do. I’m really wanting to go with the pro. . .
Hello everyone. I’ve read this thread with great interest as I intend to get an Apple laptop once OS X Leopard comes out in October. Does anyone use their MB or MBP for recording and sound production? I’m a musician and want to use the Mac for such things so I’m not sure a whizz bang graphics card would be particularly useful to me. Would the MBP offer significant advantages over the a fully tricked out MB when using stuff like Garageband and Logic Express? Ta!
hye just also read the thread….at least i am not alone in the boat….
initially was going to just buy a fairly expensive non-mac laptop, then was confonteed with the HD-DVD and blueray saga and then decided to buy a cheap non-mac laptop. after some weeks of research on internet and retailers (the employees of which point u in one direction and then the other), i am now at the x-roads – macbook or macbook pro……….
i will be using Word (so will buy the Office 2004 cd (but note the office 2008 is due out next year), i have a lot of records and am intersted in creating music so the Mac stands out for me, my wife likes to play around with photos……….
so the only question is which one to buy…..
Leopard OS X is due for release in Europe in November……as far as I understand there will not be a release of a new macbook at this time as it happened some months ago, but what about the macbook pro?? is this due for an upgrade or not??? from what i gather apple are very secrative about releasing of new products so i guess the answer will only be know when it happens…..
(
anyways, i understand that the macbook (1gd) will be able to handle Leopard so
i think i will just get the macbook, in light of the additional cost for the pro and given my somehwat limited use of the mac. That said……i would still love to buy a pro….
i bought myself the middle spec. Macbook roughly a year ago now. i use it for the internet, world of warcraft, amateur video photography and photoshopping. it handles everything great, it takes a while to get things that use Rosetta up and running such as elements 4.0 which is understandable .
The screen size does bug me sometimes i’m thinking of buying a separate screen to use when i’m at my desk which i can use as a Tv also, but i wouldnt want to have a larger screen for when im on the move really, this one is great. the only other thing with the macbook is the issue of cracking, my macbook cracked over the standby light, about 3months ago, i took it to my local apple shop to get fixed which they did under the warranty, i think this is a big issue with the macbooks there are a number of support links on the apple website i believe somewhere. but other than all this i love my macbook and i wouldnt pay the extra money for a pro, maybe when i use it professionally but as a college student its good enough.
hope that helps.
HI. I will begin a graphics design 3 year course in onctober and need to get a mac!! at first i thought that the pro was just a marketing trick – that it had the same as the MB but was in a “different package”..however, after reading a bit more into it i get that there is some difference… but how much really?..i want to be a graphics designer after my studies so really i should get the pro..or??
hi i just bought the macbook pro,,13 in screen. I noticed there is a small flaw in how it was glued together, seems to be coming apart on the side. I will be taking it back and getting a pro….find it is just a tad too small anyway. this is my first mac. like the features, but 13 in is small.
I have recently recieved a MacBook Pro, and I am running Bootcamp XP with Tiger 10.4.10 (can I upgrade to Leopard if I have Bootcamp?). It is running great. I love the dedicated graphics card because I work for CBS news, and I have to do constant HD video editing on the go. I also own a MacPro and a XPS Dell. I love my MacBook Pro because it is blazing fast, responsive, reeliable, and light/thin. The company offers MacBook as a company computer, and I have used it until my MacBook Pro arrived, and it is usable. It is slow, but ok. I suggest Pro, because I can’t stand waiting the lag time in the MacBook, the Pro has no or very few lag time seconds. PLZ RPLY.
Kp,
I’m an amateur video editor (15-20 minute HD projects) and was debating over the Dell XPS m1330 or the Macbook Pro. Taking note that you own both of them, I was wandering if you have any preference between the two. I’m a college student and want to major in Film Production (I find much interest in your job!).
For the Dell XPS m1330, I was going to get top of the line equipment installed; 4gb RAM, 200gb @7200rpm, the whole shabang for about $2300. I was going to run Adobe Premier Pro on it.
For the Macbook Pro, I’m probably going to go with Final Cut Express. And have the low-end equipment; 15″ and 2.2GHz. Roughly $2000?
So I suppose a few words of advice pertaining the differences of the two and how they preformed for their price.
Thanks!
Julian,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_video_editing_software
The field is evolving fast and there’s a lot of options. Based on features and platform/cost issues asside. all the big packages more or less offer the same.
Right now Final Cut (Pro) is the most used non-linear editing suite outside of Hollywood (and on the Mac.) There’s a large community of indie and not-so-indie editors you can work with if you go this route. I’d go with Pro if you can afford it with student pricing and you prefer Final Cut.
In Hollywood, Avid still dominates. But if you can master one editing suite, you should be able to transfer your skills onto another. It’s the most expensive option too.
Adobe PPro prior to CS3 ran only on the PC. As of CS3, Adobe supports both PC and Mac (Intel.) The only reasons to go with Adobe is if you buy the production studio package, which includes Encore for DVD authoring, Photoshop, Flash and After Effects (probably the best reason.) The big minus is a smaller user community as PPro is concerned. But it’s growing.
Hi everyone,
I have been using desktop pcs all my life and have now decided that it is time to get a laptop. I am stuck between the macbook and the macbook pro. All i will be using the laptop for is basic things such as the internet, itunes and watching a few videos. The thing is that i plan to do alot of gaming – especially warcraft 3 and its expansion The Frozen Throne and hopefully next year with Starcraft 2 – when it comes out. Do you think the macbook should be ok …or should i get a pro with its much better graphics card.
Jerry, definatly get the pro. I bought a 1.8 c2d macbook last year and its shockingly bad at gaming. Halo 1 (on my xp partition) runs JUST ABOUT smoothly at 800×600 with most settings turned to low or off!
Im getting a mbp asap!
im with nick.. whats best for sound editing, beefy stuff like that?
can i stick with a 2g ram mb?
Anybody edit audio with protools on the MB, MBP? Curious about how the laptop works with that program. Would you go with the other if you could?
Nick,
I’ve a couple of months old macbook white with 3yr apple warranty here with leopard on for sale if you are interested – all pristine as new, I ended up with an imac instead so it’s surplus to requirements
07790611414 if you are interested
Nick,
Macbook is great for logic pro 8, had it working just great.
Hi, I’m stuck between the MB & the MBP…I do play games, but I’ve got an Xbox and a PC for that. I’ve waited until the revised Specs for the MB’s came out, and after seeing them in store…the screen does feel a little small. I use a standard HP Laptop with 14″ screen. The MB/MBP would be used for Internet, Music, Light Gaming, Maybe some encoding/photoshop if my PC is tied up. The amount of RAM really isn’t an issue, Apple charge far too much for Memory, I’ll buy 4GB elsewhere for £100, and keep the factory RAM in case of problems.
Also, as regards the MB White, how bad is the discolouration ? I think I noticed the White MB’s in Lakeside had protective covers on.
Thanks for the input. I’ve been using this site:
http://comparati.com/1014-Macbook-vs-Macbook-Pro
to make these kinds of decisions lately, but I found your blog even more helpful, so I put some of these points in there
Thanks again. I’m going Pro (wish me luck)!
Hellooooo!
I’ve decided to go with the Pro.
Music is my thing and I will be using LOGIC –
And the question is….
which of the 15″ models?
Thanks!
There’s some good info here. Thanks all.
An additional aid, for those playing games etc, is to compare the video cards in the machines. In brief the MB (even with the latest graphics card – just released GMA X3100 integrated video) won’t do the job well. The MBP is better, but still not the top.
Have a look in the list here for more info: http://www.notebookcheck.net/Comparison-of-Grafic-Cards.130.0.html
I don’t use a PC for games (prefer natural life for that
so will probably go for a MB and the excellent 22″ HP display. The money saved between the MB and the MBP goes a long way towards buying the external display for ocassions when I need a BIG screen.
Also – listen to this. I think it’s excellent: http://www.switchingtomac.com/wp/macbook-vs-macbook-pro/
I am in the market for a MBP, and to be honest if you look on the refurb section the savings are good. Consider this, a macbook (in canada) 1450 for the superdrive. If you up the RAM to 2 gigs, you are looking at close to 1650. Lets say theoretically you could put in a dedicated video card in the macbook, another 200 bucks, then 1850. WELL in Canada, on the apple refurbed site… 1870 will get you the 15 inch MBP. standard 2 gigs of RAM, dedicated video etc.
I’ve read all the comments here as of this date… I’m currently in this kind of situation too…. and you know it is hard!!
After reading all the comments… im still undecided between the two… (Oh God, please help me…) I need to put my order online tonight or the next day… I hope you could help me..
I’m a current college student and I’m planning to get a mac laptop because I’m giving this laptop that im using to my auntie, I’m not really into super intense graphic editing, I want to do some in future but only basic editing. Using my own specs, the price difference between the MB & MBP is CA$588 to be exact. The size of the laptop does matter to me; however, the size of 15″ MBP over the MB is not that much… I really like the backlit keyboard though… Im also scared about the MB’s discoloration, because my hand are sweaty sometimes… I really like the white color of MB too, MBP’s silver color is okay….
I hope you guys can help me decide…
P.S. I’m looking for a laptop that will last for about 5+ years… Does the MBP worth the CA$588???
email me… i need your response ASAP!! on subject put (MB or MBP) or something close to that!!!!
Thanks!!!
There’s one point I would like to mention that I haven’t seen/heard here: I am taking the plunge for my first Mac, after many years in corporate PC environments, and even though the difference in money makes me a little hesistant, I’m going with the 15″ MBPro. All of the points in this thread are good ones, but the what tipped the balance for me was the steady stream of ‘if you decide to get (fill in the cool app) you should probably get the Pro’. Which means to me, as a new Mac user, that I might find myself so excited at the things I can do that I might want to move up, so to speak, to doing things that would definitely be better on a machine like the Pro. So, the extra money is kind of an insurance policy on extending my use of the Mac no matter what I decide to do with it.
JMHO
im deciding between a macbook and a mb pro. im from singapore. the price here is that i can get 2 mb for the pric of 1 mbp. really wondering if its worth the money since im nt really a crazy gamer although i play warcraft.here i can get a free upgrade to 4 gb ram for free. and also does the new mb come with intel rosa? i know th mbp comes with it. thx
I’m going for the top spec Macbook. 4gig ram 2.2GHZ etc etc.
Will the mac perform to its specification?
I want it for reason 3, logic, cubase and other sequencer and sound editting programmes.
I want to be able to make a solid decsicion.
The 13″ is perfect for portability, the build is great too.
But maybe I want back lit keys and all that other stuff that the Macbookpro has.
It must be able to perform and do what it says to my specs..
I do not, nor have ever owned a Mac or a laptop. I would like to try a Mac in the future, as an upgrade to XP and because of the impressive design. I recently saw a Macbook at a store and was really impressed with the keyboard. It’s hard to describe the tactile feel of a kyeboard in words, but the keys seemed a bit smaller, lower rise, and overall a bit more like the keys on a desktop calculator than a conventional laptop keyboard. The end result was increased comfort and typing speed. The only other place I’ve seen a similar keyboard, is the new Sony Vaio VGN CR series of laptop.
I will also be a Mac first-timer.
1) I won’t be doing much fancy graphics stuff so I don’t think I really need the extra graphics card.
2) The large screen would be nice but I also want something super portable
3) MOST IMPORTANTLY: I want a computer that will last. Budget is a pretty big deal for me and I want to know if the build on the MBP will last longer than a MB with the same specs.
Please let me know your opinions!
Hey guys,
Im in a bind of deciding between two second hand mac laptops.
One is the 13.3 inch black macbook with the core 2 duo processor (2.0ghz), 1 gb ram, 120 g hardrive
The other is the 15 inch macbook pro with the core 1 duo processor (2.0ghz), 512 ram, 80 gb hardrive
They are both the same price so I just have to choose between them and I really dont know too much about macs
Thanks!
OK so for those of you that have worked on both MAC and PC got a new Sony Vaio but I keep hearing that the Macs are better. I want to hear your thoughts. The reason why I didn’t get a Mac was because I was uneasy about learning a new OS. Can those that have both tell me the major differences. Here’s what I got on my new Vaio that I’m typing on right now. Let me know if there’s a Mac that matches it I do a lot of Video anf Photo editing slight game use but not much.
Sony Vaio VGN-FZ190
Windows Vista Home Premier
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4
250 GB Hard Drive
2GB RAM
Nvidia Geforce 8400 GT
DVDRW and Blu-Ray Disc
If the make is so much better I’ll try to sell the Laptop on ebay for what I bought it for got a killer price only payed $1500 with a service plan.
Please Mac book Pro users tell me what i should do give me just some straight up answers why is a Mac so much better than a PC as you all say.
Meh… Zae, your Vaio surpasses pretty much any Macintosh laptop. I own a MacBook 2.33Ghz which I got a couple weeks ago (Its black). I also own a Mac Pro I got last year. Its pretty hard to from a 30inch Cinema to 13inch screen, albeit I still use the Mac Pro for the odd major presentation creation.
You see, the dilemma here when buying a Macintosh is the overall pricing compared to a Windows laptop. Regardless of the OS, when talking hardware, Macintosh are truly overpriced and not very configurable, exempting the Mac Pro, which to my knowledge is pretty impressive since its January 08 update when talking configurability in which it’s set benchmarks to how a computer should be built for ease of customizability. Thing is, very few are going to go out and blow $5000+ (I know the Mac Pro Starts at $2799, but with the options, you could go crazy, easily $13,000 O_o ).
You pretty much have a MacBook Pro + configuration with your Vaio FZ series. For $1500 you say, your goddamn lucky.. For that price, you’ll be walking out of the store with a 13inch MacBook, base model for about 1400 to 1500$, taxes inclusive. Very few really think about the “out-the-door” price. A mid-range MacBook Pro could easily get you to $3000 with tax and all the other costs if any, before you leave.
Now, that being said, this all depends if your actually buying the Macintosh for the OS, which, almost everyone does. Then everything changes. Unless you need the extra graphics software capability , wanna try something new or just dead straight fed-up with Windows (Its usually the later), stick with your Vaio, Sony’s are excellent computers, by far the best built when it comes to quality from my experience.
In the end, sticking with your Vaio seems to be a better choice unless your really want to “use” a Macintosh. I personally have been using Macs for university for years, though of course I use Windows as well. I couldn’t really say that a Mac is better then Windows, it just depend on what your using it for and what your personal preferences are. But then again, I’ve had the luxury of a new computer every year from my scholarships, so its hard to say for those on a budget. But just to warn you, if you do go Macintosh laptop, with plans to spend the same amount of money, don’t expect too much hardware-wise. The OS X operating system? Thats up to you to try. If I were you, I would go to a store and play with the demo’s for a while to see what ya think, don’t take my word for it, I personally look at a computer as a straight-out tool, I couldn’t careless what it looked like, but thats just me. I hope for what my 2 cents were worth helped you out. ^.^
I am a touring musician and have primarily used PC laptops and have recently decided to switch to a mac laptop since we toured with another band that had one. I was blown away with the progs it had and the look.
I will be utilizing the mac for garage band(composition), general internet, iphoto, word processing, editing movies and other cool progs that macs have that I don’t know about. But generally music related. No games!
I would also like to run Pro Tools in conjunction with In ear monitors and a digital desk on stage.
My dilemma is that although I want the MBP, I want to portability of a MB. I absolutley hate lugging my 17″ HP around airports and love the look of the MB’s.
And as we are constantly traveling I want something robust that won’t fail on me.
Don’t suppose apple make a 13″ MBP???
What to do I? Do I bite the bullet and go the pro? Or can an upgraded Macbook handle the load?
In my opinion, the macbook surpasses the in the key areas. The best thing to do would be to get a macbook and max it out
I bought a MacBook about a month ago after being a dedicated PC user for, well, all my life. I still use a PC at work so the MacBook is just for my own personal use. Now I love the MacBook, but the snob in me wants a MacBook Pro.
Now here’s the rub. I rarely use my laptop as a “laptop” as it’s plugged into my external monitor (22″ ViewSonic), I’ve got an external DL DVD burner and an external 500gb HDD. So, assuming I sold my MacBook, I’d be upgrading for a backlit keyboard and a better graphics card. Is that really worth it?
I plan to go in for the 15.4 inch MacBook Pro because of its all-round excellence. The only point of confusion is whether to opt for the base model with 128 MB video RAM or the higher-end one with 256 MB vide RAM.
How much difference would it make on a grade of 10? Which applications would work better on the top model? Can someone educate me on the fine difference?
This was all very interesting, and I’ve read all the comments, but I still can’t decide. Money is a big factor in a desicion between a MB or MBP, but I do alot of Photoshop stuff. Right now I have a macbook G3 and a blue and white desktop!!!! My friends all tell me the MB will blow me away after dealing with my current macs. What do you guys think. I started out on a Performa, so have been with Macs a long time. thanks for your help this site is great.
My main hesitation with the Macbook is the small 13″ screen. I’m a professional writer. On my iBook G4, I have to trick up the font to 16 pt before I can see it well. Anything smaller tires my eyes out. What will happen on an even smaller screen??
But I don’t need all the power, bells & whistles of a Macbook Pro.
I *wish* Apple would make a Macbook with a bigger screen!
wait a couple of months till the macbook pro revision. then snap it up. yum yum.
the speakers are WAY bigger on the MBP, you can’t get anything out of a MB.
MacBook:
Pros-
1. Choice of either black or white
2. Chiclet style keyboard (if that’s your preference)
3. Cheaper
Cons-
1. No dedicated graphics chip
2. ALMOST same weight!~
3. Hair thicker than pro
4. Gets dirty fast
MacBook Pro:
Pros-
1. More RAM
2. Dedicated graphics chip (photo, video editing, gaming)
3. Far better speakers
4. Illuminated keyboard
5. Almost same weight as macbook
6. Hair thinner than macbook
Cons-
1. Pricy $$$
All in all, if you have the budget, go for the pro! Remember you’ll probably need accessories so keep that in mind (money-wise)
i just purchased a MBP.i like apple so much i went for the nicest looking laptop, looks are a big factor for me. im probably never gonna use the sound/ video editing software…….. i only use the internet, check email, chat, write papers, and play a game or 2. But its always nice to have the extras : )
I’ve got a trusty cute adorable (but seriously aging 12″ PowerBook) and today I decided to buy a replacement. Today Apple announced upgrades to the MacBook and MacBook Pro series, so seems like a good day to buy. Here’s my question to anyone out there watching this thread: will I miss the 4.5 pound, sheet of paper form factor of my 12″ PowerBook when I buy one of these bigger machines? I am definitely not getting the MacBook Air–too underpowered. I just cannot decide between a MacBook tricked out with more memory and HD, or a MacBook Pro. NOTE: money is not an issue. I guess my big concern is that if I went from a small 4.5 pound cute little thing to a big 5.4 pound Pro, it would really be noticeable. I lug the thing back and forth to work every day. Any comments?
Hi guys.
I’ve been reading the hole thing and made me feel like i should get the macbook pro.
here’s the problem. I have some contact who would sell me their macbook pro 1.83ghz(2g ram, 160G HDD) for cheap. but im wondering whether i should get that or buy the latest new one which is 2.4ghz. money kinda issue for me however i will be able to afford the 2.4ghz. are there much difference between both of them? if the speed don’t make much difference then i would get the old one.
Or is it better to get a macbook because the price is much better?
Hi Guys,
I’m about to make the same decision. As I’m travelling from Spain to NYC next month I found the perfect justification to go MBP; the MBP is in US$ about the same price as a MB in euro’s!
Jake: I also have a PowerBook for sale.. 667 mhz 768MB 300USD no dead pixels…;) go new! you wont regret it!
I think that if you have a good enough budget but also, to the extreme you need versus want.
If you are considering actually doing graphic design as a feild (photoshop, illustrator, indesign, flash) having the dedicated graphic chip/card is important plus the need room in the system. if it is an at home only system it can go either way.
I too am trying to make the desicion of buying a MB or a MBP and with the student discount it helps and taxes coming in shortly will take part of the finacial strains off. I currently have a Dell Inspiron 1505 with only 1.74? ghz so going all the way up to 2.6 is an improvement.
Someone earlier just last month said wait a few months, well now the upgrade has come and I am over excited to purchase a MBP.
Thanks bas, i think i might go with new MBP.
However i have one concern. Is it easy to carry it around? I mean when i buy this laptop, i will sure be carrying it around everywhere as i will be a college student soon. If it’s too heavy then it might not be easy to carry it around. I mean, extra 4-5pound on your shoulder is quite a lot.
Man this is driving me nuts, trying to find the best bang for the buck between the new Penryn processor Macs or saving some money and getting the Macbk Pro! I looked up some reviews of the processing difference between the two (Santa Rosa and Penryn). Not much difference, but it the 2.2 vs 2.4 as well. Athestics do matter to me so I would be looking at the black Macbook vs a Pro. Aggh, really does the graphics card and bigger screen worth the extra $500 or so? And should I cheap it out and wait till Apple comes in with a newly design Pro with upgraded screen, and bigger touch pad? Maybe by this June??? I giving my 3 year old Gateway to my college bound son, so I’ll need something fairly soon.
Thanks guys. I will go with the MBP. it just seems to be a good investment in the future. I would hate to buy a MB and find out later that my favorite (future) software / games / whatever only runs on the MBP.
You guys all gave me the best advice ever.
I’ve found a 2.33ghz MBP on sale in a apple store, which was way cheaper than 2.4!
i certainly don’t regret anything.. its a great machine to have.
thanks guys.
Awww.. really difficult to decide.
One must take in consideration the below.
as a user, are you considered to be a pro or normal user?
running heavy applications?
got the money?
planning to upgrade in a couple of years to a better mac?
found an offer for a used one?
are you gonna take care of it?
are you willing to add extra money to but memory?
are into heavy gaming?
can you wait for a better technology (SSD drives)?
are you used to big screens?
already own a mac (better -worst- what do you need)?
In my case I ll buy a MacBook for my sister, and in a year of 2 a MacbookPro for me! One RULE! If you dont really care about the money get the Pro. (if you have some extra get me one as well!)
Regards appleheads!
Running heavy appli? – yes, FCS and Aperture
Got the money? – Yes
Planning to upgrade in a couple years to a better mac? – Nope, will be using it until it blow up
Found an offer for a used one? – Yes, but not going to take it
Are you gonna take care of it? – Yes
Are you willing to add extra money to buy memory – I’m keen to
Into heavy gaming? – Not really
Can you wait for better technology (SSD drives)? – Probably not
Are you used to big screens? – Yes, graphic design require bigger screen
Already own a mac(better -worst- what do you need)? – Will be the first one as i was using works mac
So, i think i need a MBP
I say MacBook All u get is a better vidio card and the firewire…
Go Pro. For the few extra bucks, you have the BEST. Simple! And you will NEVER wonder if you “should have” went Pro
JD
Graphics display is a “big” thing for u always. True you go intel & faster, but u r not gaining much in the way of video card & graphics with a MB. Your iBook & eMac are also integrated cards. You get video speed from the integrated card. Which in turn will not tie up your other memory, etc. I know u have not done much with video and graphics, but if & when u do, with a MBP you will know that you have not compromised. Plus the card slot, FW 800, DualLink DVI, Aluminum case, and bigger HD _ u get to choose your screen, glossy or antiglare. Not with MB.
Just make sure you will get what u want & not think later it woulda been better to get the other. I think MB is definitely an upgrade from the eMac & iBook, but the MBP is a REAL upgrade. You are not just going new – you are going best.
Oh I don’t know. ..
All I really need the mb/mbp is for writing. But mbp is soooo gorgeous and the back lit keys really got me in love but that’s a 1000 bucks for a little light and flash.
Is 15″ too big? I whipped out a ruler and it seemed HUGE compared what i’m used to. Anybody have trouble with the size?
Does anybody know how it does on the go? I wanna be able to travel w/ my mac baby.
Spent the last hour reading all this after wondering:MB or MBP. I currently have the MB (new 2.4) like it, see a few beach balls though and just bought a camcorder. Want to do non pro video editing through iMovie. Also want to set up a website. I do have an iMac bought last yr but like to move around the house with the laptop. All I want to know is if the MP will be sufficient or if I should trade in for the Pro. Wouldn’t mind taking my personal MP on business trips so light and portable is a must. However, honestly not much difference in weight between the two. But I do have an iMac…..
Originally bought the MP for e-mails, etc
For those who were wondering about the screen size: before I bought my iMac, I did buy a MP but took it back because didn’t like the screen size. then my company gave me a tiny screened Dell to replace our IMBs. So to get the MP now, I have absolutely no problems with the screen size so I say you easily get used to it.
Any comments on the usability of this MP? I read in another forum that minor video editing, etc really does not rely on the separate graphics card, it is more useful for gaming.
I went with a MB (2GHZ) when the core 2 duo came out. I love it. I only watch youtube videos, homework, web surf, and email, but I still want a PRO. Not to use it to its potential, but to join the club and go PRO STATUS =D
I just upgraded my Acer Aspire laptop with a faster harddrive (7200rpm) and a brand new battery.
It’s really faster then the Acer I was used to, but I still want to switch to a Mac.
But just as all of you, I really doubt between the MB and the MBP.
I’m also starting a (web)design company with a friend of mine at this moment. So when I go to potential customers, it’s very professional (and cool!) to put a shiny MB on the table when discussing the websites content.
Therefore I now prefer the black MacBook. It’s powerful and very light weight for traveling (as a student I travel a lot).
Right now I think I made my choice. The black MacBook wants me as his new owner ^^
And by the way: C.C., great topic. Maybe you could write a summary of the comments so far?
i am a student and have been a PC (desktop)user. Now i love macs, and therefore i was going to buy a macbook, but then my mum boght a macbook pro and really liked the bigger screen. im going to use it to chat, play some internet games, surf o hte web, homework and take advantege of ilife.with the new macbook models have no big difference when thinking on the performance…but a larger screen (which is a great thing cause i think a 13′3 feels it will be little as i will use it as my main computer and even more coming from a 17′ PC ) and the iluminated keyboard come in great. even though i know all these stuff make it much better i still have a voice in my head telling me to buy the MB in stead of the MBP. maybe the problem is that i always wanted the macbook and that was it or that i don’t want to spend all my money.
what should i do??
I am a final year student studying Computer Science and am left stranded wondering which mac should I get. Few years ago, I got my first mac, the iBook and it had some real issues and had to replace almost everything. And now its just too slow, won’t support Windows and really no point for me to upgrade it anymore.
My work is bascially programming (C, C++, Java, ASP, PHP) and I also enjoy web designing and Photoshop. Other than work, I just surf the net, chat, and do mac stuff. I will be studying my Masters right after I graduate and really need a mac that can help me throughout. Money may be an issue but as long as I can make the right choice, I’ll be happy.
Thanks for helping out.
Hello, my dear friends of suffering.
I’m really glad I found this debate and it was really helpful despite the fact I STILL in doubt as I was before! But I think it’s the same with everyone and now, at least, I have much more to think about and compare.
Number one: WHY, but why Lord, MBP is so ugly?! And why, please why, the black MB is so pretty? It’s really making my decision a lot harder.
Number two: I’m a photographer and my only use will be Photoshop and Lightroom. Will this separated and dedicated graphic card do any difference to me?
I don’t mind the 13″ screen and I can live with the glossy screen.
Number three: The 5400rpm hard drive is the really big downside I see for anyone. In every kind of use. But with US$250,00 I can buy an 7200rpm external hard drive (firewire 400) and use with the MB. And the money difference starts to fall down.
After reading all of this while smoke all my cigarettes in deep anxiety, I really think the MBP is the right choice for me. If the black MB wasn’t so pretty I would had bought it already.
Please, can someone tell me more about the pros of a separated graphic card for Photoshop use?
Thanks in advance and good luck for all of us!
I have the same problem as everyone here! Ugh, and just like Daniel, I am in love with the little black (Mac)Book appearance wise. I think I’ll end up getting the regular one, being that the MBP and Black MB have the same amount of power, so I would be paying for a better graphics card and the “cool” factor of the Pro. Worth it? I’m not so sure. My dad says (and it’s a good point) that I should buy for now, not 4 years down the road, as the computer will most likely be outdated in 2 years anyway. I’ll probably get the MB now and upgrade to the MBP when I actually have the need for it.
From what I can tell, functionally speaking, everything in the MacBook can be customized to match the specs of the MacBook Pro except for 3 things:
1. Dedicated graphics card (vs. integrated)
2. FireWire 800 port
3. ExpressCard/34 slot
I gather that the dedicated graphics card is meant for gamers and pro video editors/movie effects people. However, I really don’t know what purposes the other 2 options could serve. Anyone out there wanna educate me on what these 2 connectivity options are designed for and who their target demographics are? I’m guessing FireWire 800 is just a faster FireWire 400? And I have no clue about the ExpressCard/34 slot.
I would like to learn 3D animation with Maya….is the graphics card in the MacBook good enough to run it?
Also, I would like to do stop-motion animation but I have a hard drive camera. I am thinking that the camcorder could be connected somehow to the ExpressCard/34 slot…..any thoughts? Would the ExpressCard/34 slot make the MacBook Pro more of a futureproof laptop?
Thanks to all who reply!
Firstly, wow, what an amazing and helpfull thread
think i just decided to go PRO.
one thing i read that really help was
Nick Starr:
“Remember this, it is YOUR laptop, and YOU will be the one carrying it around all the time. You want to get a machine that you will feel happy with. If you buy the one you don’t really want, you will be kicking yourself EVERYY time you open up the laptop.”
i will definatly kick myself if i open a macbook everytime.
secondly BEN (above), if you want to use MAYA, DEFINATLY get the PRO and even upgrade the Graphics card further, its a very heavy program. also, the macbook pro has the Firewire 800, double the speed of 400, (great for importing video from your camcorder) and you wont be able to connect the cam to the expresscard port.
GO PRO!!!
Hey guys and gals !
Im about to leave the pc world behind and i dont know which macbook to get all i really want to do is run logic 8 full studio i wont be video editing etc.
can anyone help me out .. i dont wanna spend too much on something i may not use !
Cheers !
[...] post I did a while ago asking the community if I should buy a MacBook or a MacBook Pro still gets at least one comment every week. I love that people are coming in and reading through [...]
I’ve currently got a HPDV8372ea 17″ laptop, but it now a ticking timebomb since it is massively overheating, and repair would require hundreds of pounds, and I am considering buying a macbook/macbook pro but I also don’t know which one. I use my laptop for:
Internet – streaming/downloading
MSN messenger
MSOffice
iTunes/iPod
Making music cds, sometimes DVDs
Photo editing with Photoshop
Minor video editing
I love having a big screen but I know that my laptop is more powerful than I need it to be so I am currently leaning towards getting a Macbook with the superdrive and possibly 4GB RAM over 2GB.
What are your opinions on this?
Also, is there any way I could salvage my 17″ screen and use it as a second monitor?
@devin
Thanks for the tips! So, Maya requires a lot of VRAM and so I should get a discrete graphics card from the MBP.
What about this….if the MB has integrated graphics, that means the graphics card borrows from the main memory right? If I just max out the MB to 4 GB of RAM, would that still be OK for Maya? I mean, if Maya requires so much VRAM, and a MB is maxed out with RAM, I shouldn’t have any problems right? Or is it that integrated cards only borrow so much from the main memory and Maya requires more?
I hope that made sense, thanks to all who reply!
I’m a Photographer and I was scratching my head for over 3 months now on weather to buy Macbook or Macbook Pro.
After a lot of reading up, research and discussions, I bought a White Macbook 2.4 Ghz with a 2 gb ram and I just can’t tell you how happy I am!
Photoshop runs so fast, Lightroom is totally killer (esp with rendering of the DNG and Raw files, which used to take ages in my old PC). Other apps run as good as I would want them to… I have Final Cut installed, so if I want to edit some videos I’ll play with it sometime.. I’m not a hardcore video editor anyway!
Even though Apple Products cost almost 30% more in my country than the US, I have absolutely NO regrets buying a macbook and am really happy I didn’t buy a pro at this time as I was low on budget and wasn’t sure if spending double the amount is actually worth for me… I’ll save some more money now and buy a kickass 2.8 or f/4 lens for my canon and am happy I have a machine I have been dying to own for over 6 months now. In short I AM LOVING MY MACBOOK!!
THANKs, Vineet,
After reading all the posts in this thread, so happy to read yours at the very end, that kind of make my mind up to go with the 2.4Ghz MacBook, as I will be travelling a lot with the notebook and the small size compare to the pro really have it’s advantages.
I am also a photographer and the most use of a computer for Me is to process Raw images & do Photoshop work. So happy to see your ringing endorsement of this machine for your work.
Just one question that I have is how do you rate the 13.3 inch screen, would you be more happy with a 15 inch screen as in the Pro version??
that is the one reason for my undecision about which to buy.
Thanks to all who have posted here.
The MackBook Pro’s NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT is malfunctioning when trying to run graphic-intensive applications such as Second Life, thus it’s wise to wait until a replacement graphics card is used or a fix has been found.
Many users have been complaining about this for a long time now and no solution has been found, which is annoying because I am ready to buy my first MacBook/MacBook Pro.
Decisions, decisions…
Does anyone have an inkling when a new version / updgrade of MBP will be released? I need to get a MBP for uni and i dont wanna buy one only for a newer model to come out a week later. thanks
@KCMui: You’re most welcome. I really see no drastic difference in the screen size while editing the Photographs. Why don’t you take a Photograph on a pen-drive and go to an Apple store and edit it on Photoshop? That’s what I did on my friend’s Macbook before buying. I mean of course if you get the pro, spend more money, you’ll get something better. Its like buying a Camera with a cropped censor Vs buying a full-censor camera! The quality of Photographs will be better because you’re spending so much more on a full-frame camera. But you can still take killer Photographs with a cropped censor DSLR and earn your living if you know the art of Photography
For me, 2 inches is not something that will make a dramatic change in my Photography workflow. This is my first Mac machine and I am still learning new Photography and Photoshop/Lightroom tricks everyday. Maybe once I become a pro, start earning millions with my Photography, I’ll invest in a macbook pro. But atleast for the next 2 years, I’m REALLY happy that I bought a Macbook. Its sleek, its sexy, the thunder fast and I don’t even remember that something called a Macbook Pro exists
Just one suggestion if you’re traveling though: The body of the white macbook gets dirty and scratchy very fast (so does the black one, which catches dirt even faster!), so make sure you take good care right from the beginning. I bought a transparent Macbook Skin which fits on it like a cover. You can also experiment with Skin colours like Red, Blue etc. which is what I’m going to do once I start traveling even more
Cheers!
YOU Dont think the mbp exist because you cant afford it!!! Go with the 2.6 4g ram and here that puppy purr. superfast and not cheap looking plastic like the white mac or the black mac. When I walk into a room and flip open the aluminum case, jaws drop!! They wish they were me—– A PRO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I bought it! After months of the most deep thoughts…. I’ve chosen the black book! As I live in Brazil and purchased it from BH, it will take a couple of weeks to get here. I’ll write about it after the first week of intensive use.
Vineet’s (first) review was very important to me as I’m a photographer as well.
Vineet, you said you’ve installed Final Cut on your machine. Was it the Studio version or the Express version? Cause on the minimum specs described at Apple’s website for each software, it says Final Cut can NOT be installed by any chance on an integrated graphic board. Just like the mac book.
So, I wanna hear about it. Is it possible?? Or is it the Express version? Thank you.
I think I’ll get used to the small screen. I’m only afraid of the 5400rpm hard drive….
Good luck to everybody!
P.S.-> It’s a shame we have comments like the one above in a such friendly, cooperative, useful and SMART forum.
And i dont even have to ask the question… It was wondefully answered in this forum.. Many thanks..
After many months of doubts and research i’m finally going for a MB 2.4Ghz 2Gb white. I’ll supplement with an external 7200rpm hd.
Thnks vineet and daniel for ur insights.. zat said… i’ll however get the splendid mbpro in the future wen the n3ds cme.
O.T>> it wld hv b3n better if there was a eSATA-usb combo instead of Firewire 400 option.
Nywaz… Good luck and cheers…
Daniel: I have Final Cut Pro 6 on my Mac and it works absolutely fine so far!
Christ: You’re obviously right.. If I could afford, I would have definitely bought a pro. It was because I had a low budget, I got the white macbook and I am really happy with it.. If I had the slightest of regret, I would’ve posted “I hate my macbook, go pro..” etc.
In the end its really a matter of what you can afford and what you need. Pro is certainly a more powerful/better machine, but if you’re reading this forum, chances are you’re low on money and should consider the macbook – atleast use it for a couple of days at a friend’s house or at the apple store and see if pro is what you really need
im just finishing up highschool, but im taking a year off to save up for a truck, and get a better laptop.
I would really love to get a mac, but the lacking tablet is kind of an issue for me.
i really like the keyboard of the macbook, but i like the backlit buttons on the pro.
The fact that the macbook can’t connect to the 30″ cinema display is another negative
the axiotron modbook is very interesting as well, but i believe if it were a macbook pro it would be more desirable because of the capability to work with the cinema displays. the other thing with the modbook is the inability to rotate the screen when running osx, but when in windows it works fine… This could be fixed in the new os.
The other thing is the rumors that mac has signed a patent for their version of the tablet, so im curious to see if it will be everything i want (being a wacom, not really like an ipod touch, but if they could incorporate both without the wacom digitizer becoming less acurate, it would be amazing.)
Im looking to spend around 4g canadian, maximum, so basically everything is open to me, but the lacking of certain features from each, and the inability to pay to get the features really bothers me.
Thanks for all the advice! I am a first year university student, and am not enrolled in any graphic arts program or anything of that sort. I will be using my mac for the basics (ie. internet, itunes, messenger, photoshop). I like the look of the white macbook, but now am starting to have second thoughts about getting a mbp. Will the mb last me throughout university? Or should I spend the extra money and go with the pro? Help! Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
CC, I get the feeling this has been said multiple times already, but I’m saying it again. Because of the virtual worlds work, I have to recommend the Pro. And, speaking from experience, you’ll want the Pro with the beefier graphics card. I just don’t think the Macbook is enough to handle it.
The other thing you need to know up front is that most virtual worlds will NOT play on the Mac OS. So expect to boot up in Windows for those. Even the ones that will play on it will not play nicely.
I’m currently in grade 11 of high school and cannot decide on whether to get the MB or the MBP. I’ll only be using it for web browsing, itunes, chat, word, presentations and movies on the go. I need it to last me through high school and perhaps even till I finish university. I really don’t want to regret my choice. Money is not such a big deal, as long as the MBP lasts longer or whatever. Any advice is appreciated. Remember I’ll only be using it for the basics, so PLEASE HELP!!
@Tilly, get a MB, it is really unlikely that either MB or MBP will last you through gr 12 and 4 years of undergrad. You are most likely to get another laptop halfway through. Since you only need it for the basics, honestly, get a macbook (upgrade to the 2.4ghz though)
Tilly,
As I currently face the same dilemma, I’d just like to point out that when I was a Freshman in High School, I bought a Powerbook G4, and used it heavily until my Senior Year. It survived everyday treks to class, coffee shops, and four trips across the world. I’ve never regretted spending the extra money for the MBP, plus its got more power. I’d definitely go with the MBP.
Hunt
Fantastic thread.
I am a just-graduated high schooler off to double major in aviation and photography, and am also looking at the Macbook and the Pro. I am currently on my sisters MBP that she got an incredible deal on from Guitar Center of all places, and I love the look, the feel, the light up keyboard, the 15 inch monitor, everything! I have been working hard all summer saving up the money to buy one of these machines, and now the summer is soon to be over and I need to make a decision.
As a photographer, I need a machine that I can work with in editing my many photos. As a musician, I would love to be able to use Pro Tools to record and edit my music (my sister had the same musical interests and got a great deal on this MBP from GC with all the needed software included). As a college student and a part-time gamer, I will use is for basic computing functions mostly and also for running Half-Life 2, recently procured from a generous friend.
I have been doing tons of research online as well as talking to tech-savvy people I know, and learned that the two computers are remarkably similar, as stated above, and that the Macbook can even run HL2 if you teak some game settings. I know that my hard earned money will be best spent on a fully-upgraded Macbook, but the larger screen and dedicated graphics card on the MBP are pandering to my lust for the latest and greatest.
This threads been great, but im still torn!
After reading some of this thread again, and talking to several more people on the issue, I have made my decision to go with the MB for several reasons:
1. Big bang for your buck, especially with the apple student discount, free ipod, and seriously discounted software from University of Illinois
2. The polycarbinate shell of the macbook is sturdier than that of the MBPs aluminum. While it may crack, it is relatively unnoticable, and certainly not as bad as the denting and bending that the MBP is prone to.
3. Its small screen makes the macbook more portable, and if you save the 600 bucks you would spend on a MBP and put it toward a 20 inch flat panel for your home or dorm, then its much more worth it. Bigger screen when you need it, less size and weight on the go.
4. I can upgrade it to the max and it would still cost close to 500 bucks less than the basic MBP. Very exciting.
5. With the MB and the MBP so similar, its practical right now to wait until there is another MBP upgrade to buy it. Its just not worth the extra 600 bucks, at least in my opinion.
Alright, so i am in trouble.
I have been computer searching for the past few weeks. PC or Mac, thats usually how it goes. I just don’t know what i should get. Both are good operating systems. I have been telling the people at every computer store that i need a computer to run photoshop fast enough for me and run finale fine too. I am going to be a music education major, and i need something to also be able to hold my music. I am a web designer on the side for fun (i haven’t looked into it for a career though). What do you think i should get? What would be worth my money? I am not the super rich person, and getting the MBP would be costly, but would it be the better deal?
okay i am now leaning towards the MBP cause of all you people. i am in 8th grade and i want this to last me through COLLEGE! i know that is a bit much but do you think if i got the MBP that would help? please help me! also is the light up keyboard a good feature? so do u think the MBP would work till the end of college or maybe the end of high school? thank you!!!
Ok…
Here is goes. I’m a professional film maker, look me up, Jeremiah Hundley. It depends on your needs. If you’re a hobbyist go with the Macbook. I have one, love it. It’s light, durable, and new ones take 4gigs of Ram.
However, if you’re like me, I edit A LOT. The thing that seperates the MBP from the MB in my opinion over ALL is the very seldom talked about pc express slot. I have run a 10 disc raid with 4 gigs of ram… you just don’t and can’t get that power from a macbook. If I were only a writer… then the macbook would be it. Both are GREAT machines but Pro means exactly what it states… it’s meant for professionals who are going to use the hell out of it. I also have a Mac Pro and it’s the hulk. Has 14gigs of ram for the super crunching but the Mac Book Pro can hold it’s own on editing.
What the pci express allows you to do is tap into the wonderful world of esata raids, which make it one hell of a machine. If you are a video editor, or musicican, it’s a no brainer if a computer is where you make your money. But the macbook is a great machine. Really, you have to be honest with yourself… how much power do you TRULY need. For me. I NEED the power of the MBP but not everyone does. I have 4 gigs of Ram in mine and it runs like a charm. You can’t go both with either. I find the MB more durable than the MBP. THey make great protective cases for them you just can’t find for the MBP.
Good Luck, they are both great machines. FOr me, it’s the 17″ all the way, but I am a true power user. When I write… and only write. It’s all about he Macbook though. It’s just sleek. PS.. the MB gets a better WIFI range than the MBP due to it’s plastic body verse the MBP’s metal body.
Hope that helps.
i’ve read a lot of interesting information for sure.
but i just graduated high school and am looking to persue graphic design and animation. i feel like you guys have given feisable informaiton but have beat around the bush when it comes to what computer will do me good when running photoshop cs3 and illustrator while surfing myspace AIM and playing video games. Sure i have a budget, i mean who doesnt, everyone wants the best for their money. I simply just want whats most suitable for me.
I have a feeling that most would recommend MBP due to my amount of multi tasking, but can a MB get the job done too?
I just graduate HS and am going into a Nursing program in College. I have the money to get whichever one I decided is better suited, as I have been saving, and have a student loan.
I am really torn as to wha tot get. Originally I wanted the blackbook, fully upgraded. However after doing more reserach, maybe the 15″ pro is better suited.
I don’t really play games (maybe SIM City, but doubtful), for gaming I have a Wii and an xBox360. I will mainly be doing:
- MSN
- Writing (short stories/novellas)
- Facebook
- Email
- Essays
- Research
- Movies
- Music (32 GB iPod touch)
Now I have 15 GB of music, so I want to know if that will kill the speed of the computer. One problem I also foresee is that a lot of my textbooks come with interactive softeware. What my concern is, is that the regular macbook won’t be able to handle it (my other, much more worrying concern is that the software won’t be supported by Mac >.
oh, I forgot to say that from all the reading and stuff I have been doing, it looks like both the pro and the macbook will be getting refurbished soon. New design, new hardware, casing, etc. Anyone heard anything about this? I wouldn’t want to buy one and have a newer one come out a month later (I’d be so angry, I’m all about newest things sadly).
wow this is just what i needed. I am going into university next year and will need a new laptop. Right now i have a Compaq Presario with 512mb of ram; so anything is an upgrade for me. I plan on doing my undergraduate at Brock University for sports management. Surely the majority of my workload will be word and processor based. If I get that video assignment i feel as though the macbook has enough power (especially with the new released specs) to get the job done. Also no one has mentioned the battery. My battery brand new was lucky to give me 2 hours of general use. With this in mind, from what i have read the macbook does edge out most of the macbook pros for battery life, which is more important to me than a better graphics card.
My laptop that I have used is a 15.4 inch screen. I have experience with a macbook and love the way it runs over windows xp or vista.
with no “professional” video editing required can someone give me a reason as to why the mac book pro is a batter choice for me? As far as i know they will both give me a quality life cycle and hopefully I can get 4 years of university out of either one.
the better fireport and a lit screen doesn’t make me jump out of my seat….if I cannot see the keys i can turn on a lamp.
also HEAT? iv’e read the macbook pro has a tenancy to get warmer than you would like it to, and having used a macbook i never felt it get warm at all.
Im just writing as it comes to me at this point… someone give me a reason to pay 500 more for the pro? BTW iv’e read every comment above
Brandon, I read the opposit. I read that the macbooks tend to heat up way more than the macbook pros. Also from my reading, the macbook prop has a slightly better battery than the macbook (although the difference is only a miniscual half hour). The pro also has a different cause design (lauminium as opposed to plastic, which could be good or bad, I haven’t decided). I also think that buying the pro may be better because with it’s dedicated graphics card it will be able to handle more future applications then the macbook will (as in the pro will be able to handle future programs, whereas the macbook may not, because programs are getting more and more visually demanding)
That’s my two cents, for what it’s worth
(and that being said, I still haven’t decided what macbook I’m purchasing).
I meant a different case design, the macbook has a plastic case, and the macbook pro has an aluminium case.
Iv’e seen both in person and was actually using the macbook pro at star bucks with my friend. It runs like a beauty. Now this is just my opinion; I personally like the look of the hard plastic mac book in white than the aluminum cover. Speed wise i saw no real difference and let me also note the macbook I have experience with is a little bit older and doesn’t have the greatest specs (im assuming it was a 1gig of ram)
It is true the dedicated graphics could be beneficial for future programs. But from my point of view, the programmers should want to make their software available to all computers (or as many as possible) as their are many consumers who will rely on a the older macs, or a mac book for many years to come.
How many companies would want to limit their consumer to people who have dedicated graphics (UNLESS your apple and are trying to convince people like me going pro is necessary.)
I am leaning macbook,, But this is tough and macnook pro has a strong shot at this point
Really for me its high end macbook or low end pro?
does that put a different spin to peoples responses? If i nail it down to that i’ll go get a formal quote and poste it with tax and see what the difference is
If the difference is anything under $400 I would go pro
MACBOOK
$$$$$$1601.95 with tax gets me a macbook 2.4 ghz Intel core duo, 160 gb on 5400 rpm, DVI to VGA adapter, and remote. No apple care stuff ( We can discuss this after)
vs
MACBOOK PRO
$$$$$$2550.70 gets a bigger and faster hard drive 200 GB at 7200 rpm***
-The better graphics
-DVD burning (which if I add that after market cost to the macbook adds a few hundred dollars of value to me.
-2 inch bigger screen, lighted keyboard,multi touch trackpad
-remote
so the difference is $948.75 now add in the cost of the dvd burner id have to look into i can trim 200-300 making it about a 600$ difference.
when my dad buys a new car he seems to always go for that higher model even though he doesn’t need it,, yet he never has regretted that. MAYBE my mind has changed.
Sorry if im hogging this forum if I can call it that. I did more number crunching and for 500 dollars more im virtually paying for 2.5 ghz over 2.4 NOT WORTH IT!
my done up low end macbook pro defeats the middle class……and isnt that far off the high end models.
get the pro so it well never get old or slow, get so u don’t have buy anymore laptops,so it last forever
Back again.
I havent ordered my computer yet, so ive been doing more research just to make sure I know what im gonna get. Recently, I have focused on questions of heat, battery life, and wireless range. From what I have discovered, contrary to the official reports, the macbook has better battery life than the MBP. I recently have started testing out the MB at a friends house, and I noticed the battery meter right off the charger showed a consistent 5-5.5 hours of battery life which did not take any major changes during use. Also, if you set the screen tot he lowest brightness setting, it could jump to 6 hours. I was impressed by this.
The heat issue was important for me because I will be doing some gaming, and I dont want to put too much strain on my hardware or fans. I found out that the older MBPs had serious heat issue, later remedied by various upgrades, but it can still get very hot if worked hard. This issue seems to be less of a problem, however, due to the aluminum case designed to distribute and dissipate heat, the internal overheating sensors, and the well made fans that were recently upgraded. Another useful tip is to use a heatsink pad on the bottom of the laptop to allow air to flow over the bottom of the computer when you set it down to help keep it cool and avoid over use of the internal fans.
Another big issue for me was the wireless range. When my parents added onto the house, we could not get wireless reception in the newly acquired sunroom on anything but my sisters MBP. This made me realize how important wireless range is, so i compared the two computers. The MB has much better wireless range due to its polycarbonate case, as opposed to the reflective aluminum case of the MBP. Although the newest MBPs have a rubber strip on the metal hinge on the base of the screen to allow a window for the antenna, it is outclassed by the MBs duel antenna system on both sides of the interior of the plastic case. This is definatly useful to to take full advantage of the wireless community, allowing you much more mobility.
It depends on what you want. The MB is clearly better made for portablility and travel, but the MBP has the added power of the upgradeable processor and the dedicated graphics card. As for me, I would be all for the MB, but I recently learned that some of my games cant support an integrated graphics card. I guess im going pro.
Oh and also on the heat issue, I read several cases where MBP users would complain about the bottom of their computers burning their legs after jsut moderate use. When they called Apple Care, the technicians politely told them the the MBP is a ‘notebook’, not a ‘laptop,’ and that it is not designed to be used in one’s lap. I found this humorous but relateable, seeing as my sisters MBP does get uncomfortably hot in ones lap after a while. Again, this is why you use a gel pad of some sort with hard bumps to keep the computer raised a little bit to allow airflow under the hot bottom.
http://www.macrumors.com
“AppleInsider claims that Apple resellers have received notice that MacBook, MacBook Pro and iPod supplies will become constrained in the coming weeks. Apple expects to decrease production of these models and, as a result, Apple is recommending that resellers stock up on supplies now to last them through August.
Based on past experiences and knowledge of their own inventory sell-through, those resellers who received the bulletin believe the notice is a strong indicator that Apple will begin introducing its holiday consumer electronics and Mac offerings sometime in early to mid-September.
Apple has refreshed their iPod lineup in September for the past 2 years and is widely expected to do the same again this year. Apple’s free iPod Touch Back to School promotion coincidentally ends on September 15th.
Rumored possibilities include a new iPod touch, “tall” iPod nano, MacBook with glass trackpad, newly designed MacBook Pros, and, of course, a Mac tablet. “
Mary Ryan, I’m also going through the same problem.
My major is Media Arts and Animation, so I’ll probably be using a lot of Photoshop, Illustrator and Macromedia Flash, and I’ve been reading all of these entries, but I still can’t decide which one to buy.
Price is definitely an issue, but if I have to I’ll just wait to save enough money. But I was wondering if for someone who is majoring in Animation, if the Macbook can do the same job as the macbook pro?
I know the graphic card for the MBP is much better, but can the macbook also do the job?
Im in the same boat…heading off to film school mid aug. and still don’t have a comp. I am lusting after the current mbp, but i know that they will upgrade them in september…but i need a computer for school. should i just buy a upgraded macbook then upgrade to the pro after a year or so?
!!! —— Please read this since I’ve been loving macs for years and I’ve studied every little difference between macbook and macbok pro…GO WITH THE MACBOOK!!! Many of the posts here I see that people prefer the Macbook Pro because of graphics. You see, with the MacBook the graphics are not seperate, so they take 144 MB from your RAM… heck you can get 4GB of that. You want to make documents, work with Photoshop, basic audio/video editing, and probably just surfing the internet… last time I checked none of those need a super fast processor. The only difference between the Macbook and the Macbook Pro are: size (macbook is more portable), processor (Pro is only 0.1 – 0.2 GHz faster), and graphics (unless you are a games who needs huge Nvidia graphics memory than screw the 512 MBs on the Pro)
oops typo… (unless you are a gamer who needs huge Nvidia graphics memory then screw the 512 MBs on the Pro)
Hi guys, like others said… WHAT A THREAD !!
I was confused before reading it.
I am confuse after reading it.
DAMN !
Ok, I have the money for MB and MBP. I can’t choose, but I need it really quickly.
FACTS:
-I’m gonna do basic stuff (office, mails etc..) (Dont need pro)
-I’ll have to work with Autocad, UGS NX5, Solidworks, photoshop. Do I need pro for those programs ?
-Some video editing (I’m pretty sure I dont need Pro, because I’m not..)
-I WAS a gamer, now I dont spend much time on gaming but I like playing Warcraft 3 sometimes. Maybe in futur I’ll start a new game like Diablo3 or Starcraft2, but this is gonna be in so many years…
-Lifetime… 2 years before Macbook is crap, nothing will run anymore on it ! 1500$ on 24 month is expensive. MBP offer me 4 years ? 2500$ on 48 month
-Bigger screen ? I dont really need it… I need a computer, not a TV.
CONCLUSION:
I dont REALLY need Pro but I would like to run some games in the futur… so I WILL need pro…
If we look timelife vs cost, I dont think there is such a difference, MB could be an option less expensive. I would not say no to 1000$ more in my bank account…
So… I think I’m gonna go Macbook and just dont play new games… sad…
What do you think ?
To close my message, I must say that Apple is really wise ! Look at us, unable to chosse between TWO computer ! Haha It’s easier to buy a PC even if there is 1 milion possible configuration !!
Have a good Day, Thank you !
Carl
I am going through the same decision process as well about buying the new black macbook vs. a macbook pro. I’m am a college student about to start my senior year of undergrad with plans of continuing my education. I have been using an IBM thinkpad running windows 2000 for the past 3 years, and it was used by a business before I got it. It has run its course, and I’ve decided to buy a new laptop and switch to mac.
What I would be doing on my computer includes movies, web browsing, Microsoft office stuff, and Photoshop (as a hobby, I’m not a graphics design major).
With my student discount the price difference between the BMB and the 15″ MBP is $400, is it worth it?
They have the same 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor, and 2 GB memory. The BMB acutally has a 250 GB (5400 rpm) hard disk drive while the MBP has 200 GB (5400 rpm) hard disk drive.
The main difference I’m seeing, besides the screen size, is the graphics processor which is an Intel GMA X3100 with 144 MB shared memory for the BMB vs. a NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT Graphics with 256 MB memory for the MBP…so is it worth the extra $400?
Just bought a MBP, we’ll see how it goes. I’m installing Leopard as I type.
Yeah,
I’ve been debating on Macbook Pro or an ibm clone. I would love a tablet but I want to run Visual studio 2008 and the university I go to is supplying virtual pc. I have an external HD that is ntfs so not sure if that will work with a mac. I have my songs on it, so won’t try to switch it to fat 32 until the songs are somewhere else. No room on my hard drive on the other laptop anymore….I’m thinking of a refurbished. Any other thoughts? I was looking at HP because of the price but HP, Dell and Gateway I have had negative experiences with. My Acer and Toshiba are great, I think Asus and acer at the same so have been leaning towards Acer because the Toshiba’s that I have been looking at don’t have the dedicated memory that I’m looking for. Anyhow great blog.
I have had a pc my whole life. And finally after complaining about my how much I detest my pc for a year, my dad finally agreed to have his windows laptop and the pc in his office and buy a mac for my room. So yesterday, I went to the Apple store to either buy a macbook or a macbook pro.
I really liked the pro, but some of my family/ friendstold me to go macbook. This made me unsure because they got me thinking that I wouldnt use all that the macbook pro would give me and I only needed a macbok for my daily life.Anyways, at the store, I still could not decide by myself. The Apple store has a very nice and intelligent staff that is here to help you and specializes in situations like this. The staff member asked me what I would use my labtop for and she told me the differences between the labtops. She said, because of my extensive video editing/ picture editing/ video games and using many programs at at once the macbook pro would be best for me. Also, the macbook pro is more of an investment then the macbook and macbook air, as the macbook is an older model and the macbook air doesnt have alot of memory and costs alot for less then the macbook and macbook pro has to offer. So my dad and I agreed, that even though the macbook pro costs more, we would buy it. (Yay!)
Even though it has only been 1 day, I love my macbook pro!
Hope this helps!
I’m also unsure of which to get. I want to use either one for online games, surfing and hwk. I wouldn’t be using it for video editing or anything like that but i want the macbook pro because it is faster better graphics and looks better which should i get?
If you want to play games you’ll probably need the pro. New macbooks come out on Tuesday October 14th.
what should i buy? mac book pro or macbook ? what is the deal with the dual graphics: you have to log in and logout to use the other chip.???
I have been a PC user for my entire life and my most recent PC is about to eat it, so I am contemplating a Mac since those are the rage right now. I am a financial planner, so I don’t play games, don’t do any design/publishing work, or don’t produce music/videos. I mostly need a laptop for word processing, spreadsheets, software that is comparable to Microsoft Office, web browsing, music for my iPod, basic computing abilities, and something that isn’t ridiculously heavy. I am used to a 15″ screen, but I think that I can adapt to a 13″ screen. My instincts tell me that a Macbook is all that I need especially with the upgrades since this thread was first started, but I just want to get others input. Is it relatively easy to understand Mac coming from PC?
I bought the latest MacBook from Sydney Apple store, have been using it for one week. Everything was fine except for the 13” screen. It’s really painful. I like larger font, when I use larger font, it’s really hard to read. Though I could adjust myself, but I find it a nightmare to live in such a condition for the next few years.
I used IBM T30 for the previous three years, I found my productivity was even lower with a much more powerful laptop that has a smaller screen size. I think the importance of screen size is underestimated by too many people, including myself. I need to pay extra $AUD1100 for a MBP if they allow me to change the machine, but as Economics textbook tells us, “Rational People think at the margin”, if I could get my productivity back and be more productive, I will go for it.
Nate you’d be fine with a MB. I’m getting the MBP because I’m a college student, and I play some games, do a lot of music and video, and photoshop…I also couldn’t handle the smaller screen lol. But I think the MBP are more “Futureproof” because of Snow Leopard (the new Mac OS coming out in ‘09), which will take advantage of the dual GF Cards.
hey guys im having the sam trouble aswell
i would be using my macbook or macbook pro for all 6th form stuff, alot of word processing, i do alot of gaming on, playing fps and mmorpg at a fairly high level, i listen to alot of music and love my quality, im also in a band so need the audio editing side and i spend an awful lot of time surfing the web and i would be taking it everywhere so mobility is a big factor . . . i love the power of the macbook pro but im worried its a tad over kill, which to go for guys? 
Hey guys,
I’m a web developer and wondering whether I should go with the MacBook or the MacBook Pro. I’ll mostly be using Flash, Illustrator and Photoshop.
Is the extra graphics really needed? Advice please! ;p
photoshop= Macbook Pro.
bigger canvas, graphics card, more grunt.
I’m deciding wether I should buy a MacBook or a macbook pro. I want the bigger hard Drive but I don’t know if it’s worth it, can someone help me. I also don’t know a bout the price difference.
I’m currently a sophomore highschool student, and I can’t decided between a Macbook or the Macbookpro.
Im going deeply into graphic design when I go on to college, but even now I’m working with it every day on my PC and it sucks.
I’m also a writer, and I do prefer Microsoft Office Word for that, can that also work on a Mac?
Either way, cost is a little bit of an issue, but when I make the purchase I’m really going to use the thing for a long time so I want to make it worth it even if that means saving a little longer.
What im wondering is – does this graphics card really make a difference, and is the Pro a bounding leap better then just the Macbook?
If you do any sort of photo or video editing you will need the Pro. The macbook cannot handle it. Yes there is a version of Office for Mac. It’s called Office for Mac. Although I’ve used both Office for Mac, and Apple’s own iWork, and iWork is much better.
i think macbook is all u need BUT if u do really hardcore photoshop then macbook pro but that will be a bit of a waste cos all the other stuff the macbook will take care of as if it were nothing
man i cant choose im in nz and the cost is 1000 dollars more. but i ran a system rating program xsomething, not sure, and the difference between the macbook 2.0ghz, so not even the 2.4 version, in comparison to the 2.4 MBP was about 50 points. and the graphics part of that analysis was only 20 points different. im a student and I do design professionally but 1000 bucks, thats heaps of money.
will i have to upgrade eventaully
If you want a macbook pro but you’re torn between the performance of a MBP and the price of the MB, go on ebay and you can buy the MBP for a $1650 at the buy it now price!! Brand new, factory sealed, warranty included! it’s a no brainer to me. That’s what I’m gonna do. $1650 is the cheapest I’ve seen it on there at the Buy it now price, but you can ALWAYS find them for $1750! K bye!
Hi,
I’m replacing my MB (1GB Ram 120GB HD). I can’t decide if I should get the new MB with 250 HD or the MBP, apart from the size is graphics the only difference? I only use Logic 8 apartand office sodo think I need the extra graphics for £200 GBP more?
I bought a MacBook Pro Unibody 2.53 Ghz with 4 Gig Ram and 320Gig Drive and regretting the purchase ever since, and looking to get a MacBook instead. The MacBook Pro is a very nice machine, but resolution wise, it does not deserve the “PRO” term. I do video editing and Photoshop, and keep the NVIDIA 9400M on rather then using use the 9600GT. One thing to thing about when you turn the 9600GT, the Machine becomes uncomfortably hot.
Now if you want to play games, or require the firewire port then that’s a different story, but there is a lot of cheaper and better machines out there then the MacBook Pro for playing games. I personally do not play games. The other thing to think about is, that for carrying day in and day out, the MacBook Pro is a little big and heavy. I think the MacBook is better machine.
Hope this helps.
hi,
i am a editor. and going to edit documentaries or ADs shot on formats like DV, or HD or HDV. I also want to be mobile in handling the machine. but i am confused between macbook and macbook pro. please help and guide me. offcourse money is the matter of concern. i can afford money to buy a macbook pro but then mac pro(desktop) also costs around that much only. so then why buy a MBP? YEEKS…confused…
I bought the 15″ Macbook Pro and have NO regrets at all. It is a piece of art inside and out. Backlit keyboard, magnetic power plug etc. just had to have it. Of course I have more money than sense….eerr HAD more money than sense!
Hey guys.. Thanks a lot for all the comments here,, it makes me more confuse, though.
I’m a graphic design student and it’s mandatory to have a mac for some courses.. I’ll be using photoshop, and maybe flash and stuff..
Well, money is a major problem for me.. I have pc at home and wouldn’t change to mac if it’s not for school.
Hi,
So I’m planning to get a mac, but im not sure which one i should get,
white macbook or 13′ macbook pro unibody.
My main usage will be for dj-ing, and the white mac has already enough specs to have my mixer run with. However, i’m not sure if i should get the mbp cause afterall, ” the faster the better” in my case, especially for dj-ing.
Some advice would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
Hey! I need some help right know, im have a very difficult decisicion to take, but im not shure.
I got 2 MB, one is the black MB 13.3 screen, 2.4Ghz, 4Gb Memory, 250 HDD and he other one is a MBP 15.4 screen, 2.0Ghz, 2Gb Ram, and all the features of a MBP like the independient graphics card, backlit keybord, the amazing screen. I have to let go one of both, so, whats better to keep… the MB or the MBP? Please help!
I use it at most for final cut ( video editing)
hey guys!
i have been debating for a while whether i should get macbook or macbook pro.
i wanna get 13 inch one, and will be using the laptop for basics.
im a highschooler so i will be mostly doing word processing, surfing on the internet, email, etc.
but i love the new design on macbook pro, plus its keypad.
however i heard people saying that if im only gonna use macbook for basic stuff, then i wont need macbook pro.
i need your advice!! help me!! thanks
For a non-design major, or more simply for one who will need basic functions like word processing/internet (English and Biology double major), which is the smarter buy, Macbook or Macbook Pro?
Ive getting either the macbook pro or the macbook tomorrow, but im more edging towards the Mavbook. i will be using it for photoshop, illustrator, internet, itunes, ipod, images, storing files, playing music ect…
Plus i am going to need to take it to university almost all the time, and its just the right size to fit in my bag!
I think that if you don’t need that extra graphics then theres no point in spending the extra money, plus i would never get it in my bag! Lol
And i dont think the macbook is too small that it would affect my views on it…if i had more money and didnt need to travel around with it alot, then i would probably go for the mac pro, just for the luxery factor…
i love my new macbook pro i have a friend that has the book mac and i cant see any diference apart from the name PRO
Hello, I am looking to get a mb or mbp for daughter at gcse level for school work, music stuff, surfing, facebook, and stuff like that, she does do graphics but has never really needed anything special to do the work, i was thinking macbook because of its lightness and more portable also because i know she would prefer the look, but not sure about glossy screen, id be looking to get 13″ screen on both mb and mbp, i dont mind about the diff. in cost but as long as she can get windows on it and stuff to do music then i think anything more might be too much, views?
I have the same issue – Mac Book or Mac Book Pro. I will be working mainly on logic 9 editing sound for films but I am not editing films. I am tempted by a Mac Book with a 4gb ram upgrade…Can anyone please advise? What are the differences? I will be going for the smallest screen as I am a very small lady and can’t carry huge laptops…..Thank you for your help
THANK YOU SO MCUH! This has gotten me to realize that a macbook pro is better than a macbook! thanks for stopping from buying a macbook!
Amy, if you’re looking to get your daughter a computer just for web surfing (sorry, the 90s caught up to me for a moment!), email, twitter, and basic entertainment, and the requisite being it has to boot Windows, you may as well get her a PC notebook. The basic Macbooks don’t have the option for you to select matte screens and it would cost $150+ to retrofit one onto it. You actually don’t get that option until you start looking at the Macbook Pro 15″.
TBO, it sounds like she’s wanting to be one of the cool kids in school with a Mac