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virtute

Does the $1,200 MBP have enough computing power to justify the price tag?

I'll be starting college next year and I don't know if I should go with the 13-inch Macbook, or Macbook Pro. I've never used a Mac before; I'm not planning to use my machine for gaming or intense photo/video editing - but $200 seems justifiable for the aluminum unibody (plus firewire, SD card reader, stroking my ego, etc).
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peterto

peterto

If you've got the cash, then go for the 13" MBP. Aluminum is more durable than the polycarbonate body and is worth the extra $200, plus it has more RAM.
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AndrewL

AndrewL

The difference in performance between the 13" Pro and the standard plastic 13" is not very big. You sound like a mostly light-weight computer user and honestly either of these machines will offer plenty of performance for your needs. You could buy the plastic one and it would be just fine. But the aluminum Pros are really nice. To me, that metal casing is worth the upgrade. I think it would probably last longer and you'd be happier with it the long run too. The Pro machines also offer higher quality displays as well, if you care about that sort of thing. (better viewing angles, and color reproduction, etc..)
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cstrawn

cstrawn

Also check apple's education store on their site, apple gives student discounts of around 10%, plus the first week of June they usually offer a $200 rebate on an itouch/ipod. Even if you just sell it that's money off the sticker price. I personally prefer the 15" screen, but I have this one too and she performs nicely.
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JasonTsay

JasonTsay

the price tag isnt for the raw computer power. the price tag is for a better built notebook with some extra ports and a much more durable casing
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virtute

virtute

Thanks for the replies!

I'll most likely go for the MBP - I appreciate the help!
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LeTueur

LeTueur

No, it does not. It is using last-Gen processor (Intel Core 2 Duo). You can get a i5 from HP for 700-800 which will justify the price tag. If U're just gonna use it to go to college then you really don't need the aluminum unibody. The only true plus is battery life.
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