[andycroll]

In the market for a new laptop. And the Macbook has thrown me into a world of confusion.

I'll configure whichever machine i get to 2GB RAM and 100GB HD. Here are my findings (exchange rate used 1.8USD to 1GBP):

Can buy 1GB RAM sticks from crucial in the UK for £111 (~$200) cheaper than apple CTO
Can buy 100GB HD from ebuyer.com in the UK for £80 (~$150)

Macbook 2.0GHz (the white one, not bothered about black - but then I haven't seen one yet )
899+222+80 = 1201 (~$2,161)

Macbook Pro 2.0GHz (CTO 100GB HD)
1399+222+60 = 1681 (~$3027)

Refresh Macbook Pro 2.0Ghz (pre speed bump model - 100GB/1GB/256MB graphics as standard)
1480+111 = 1591 (~$2863)

Macbook Pro 2.16GHz
1699+111 = 1810 (~3258)

I have to say I'm struggling with the extra 300 quid (500 bucks) for what is essentially a video card upgrade (albeit with the extra resolution screen aswell). Particularly as that'd give extra cash to potentially pick up a basic Mini for media server / backup / home theatre!

I'm no great gamer, but was hoping to finally play HL2, maybe FEAR, etc. hence the Intel upgrade. Does anyone have any experience of using the Macbook for casual 3d gaming? If there is such a thing!

A tipping point might be any poor (future) performance in programs I use for work (i.e. Photoshop) I've read mentions on MacWorld about software that might utilise CoreImage & OpenGL. Bear in mind I'm coming from a Powerbook 12" 1GHz so even with Rosetta my Photoshop performance will be better!

Then there is the 2.0 vs 2.16 question... does the extra power make much of a difference?

You can see that I'm looking at a 50% increase in spending for the bottom to the top end of my spending, which is a lot of money given that messing about in an Apple Store isn't a decent representation of real life use!

So that is effectively the same question as everyone else is asking except I've put actual pounds into the equation... any one got any more answers?

[harrisjamieh]

I dont see any 100 GB SATA 2.5in hard drives on ebuyer for £80. I see ATA drives for that price, but remember the MB & MBP take SATA drives. Also, it is much more difficult (and warrenty voiding) to upgrade the HD in the MBP than the MB.

If you want to play HL2, then the MB is a definate no-no, IIRC, the intel list of what works on the GMA950 says HL2 will not run. period.

2.0 > 2.16 will be bearly noticable IMO.

[andycroll]

I'd seen that list - but I'm sure someone had HL2 running on a Mini, having the same graphics processor?