[Synotic]

The title mostly explains it. I'm trying to help a friend with a MacBook purchase. Which is a better buy?

MacBook Core Duo 2GHz with SuperDrive for $899

or

MacBook Core 2 Duo 2GHz with combo drive for $1049

Both have 512MB of RAM and 60GB hard drives.

I'm not really familiar with the benefits of the Core 2 Duo chip. In terms of speed and power efficiency, is it worth it?

Thanks!

[galarneau]

I'd go with the Core Duo/Superdrive for $899

the only thing you're missing out on is a bit of processing speed and the 802.11n networking.

I say spend the extra money on a bigger hard drive or RAM

[xtal]

I made a similar decision recently and decide to go with the C2D. The 802.11n is good for the future, as is the DL Superdrive. One benefit you haven't mentioned is the 4MB L2 cache in the C2D.

Still, if money is tight, I'd say that the CD is a very good buy.

Also, all the 2.0 GHz Macbooks come with Superdrives.

[frankthetank966]

I would go with CD2. You might as well get the newest technology on the market if money is not an issue.

[uicandrew]

how can the c2d macbook have only 512mb ram? one of the nice things about the c2d is that it has double the ram (1gb - 2x512mb) standard and 20gb more hdd space than the core duo counterparts?

[MattJeff]

go with the c2d. they have a LOT less probs and run cooler and such.

[uicandrew]

Originally Posted by MattJeff 

go with the c2d. they have a LOT less probs and run cooler and such.

my c2d whines, but no other problems