[Chimpmaster]

Hi guys,

I am a fairly long time mac user (10 years).

I currently use a G5 Imac (17inch). Ive had it for 3 years and am ready to sell it and upgrade.

I am looking @ the 2.4Ghz macbook. I intend to configure it with the 4GB RAM and a 250GB hd.

I will use it for browsing, pages, numbers, MYOB and some light gaming. (waiting for diablo 3.....)

Do I need a macbook pro or will the macbook suffice?

Also, should I get the 2.4Ghz model or the basic 2Ghz. Money is an issue but I can afford either or.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

[Simon]

Judging by the light use you mention a MB should be fine. The MBP has a nicer screen (brightness, colors, angle), so maybe you should compare both at a store to make sure the MB's screen suits you.

If you can afford both MBs you should definitely go with the 2.4 GHz model. Not only is it faster but it already comes with the HDD you want and it's got the great backlit KB. That might sound like a gimmick to somebody who's never had one, but once you've become used to it you'll never want to be w/o it.

[SierraDragon]

What Simon said.

Note that screen size and pixel count are much larger on MBPs, maximum on the 17" size. Test out the different size displays with your typical usage. For spreadsheets and graphics, for instance, I find the MB screen real estate and pixel count too limiting for my needs, and I hate glossy displays. However both those issues can be dealt with when in desktop mode by adding an auxiliary display.

HTH

-Allen Wicks

[kylef]

Before you even decide which MacBook you will go for, I'd recommend you to not upgrade via Apple. RAM (and even unibody-fitting HDDs) are substantially cheaper elsewhere and it won't void your warranty.

With regards to which MacBook is best for you .. it's really personal between the MBP and MB (both 2.4GHz model - I'd stay away from the 2.0 because of a lack of backlit keyboard and power you may very well end up needing in the future). Personally, I opted for the MacBook because it was nimble and light - something that'll fit in my bag without a squeeze. Contrary to a lot of (justified?) screen-bashing around here, I have no problems with mine. I prefer glossy - vibrance and boldness are a must for me. In terms of reflections - this may sound superman-esque of me, but I can 'look past' the reflection and just the screen as normal.

With regards to gaming - the 9400M can handle HL2 on high settings, I'm not sure about others. I wouldn't call it a future-proof card but it can certainly handle today's games on a not-so-bad framerate.

[Chimpmaster]

Thanks guys.

You have helped me make a decision.

I am going to get the 2.4Ghz macbook. Ill give the RAM some more thought. Buying it separately is a good idea to save $.

[Simon]

Originally Posted by Chimpmaster 

Ill give the RAM some more thought. Buying it separately is a good idea to save $.

Indeed.

You can get 2x2GB DDR3 no-name RAM for $57 shipped at Newegg. They also have Muschkin for $58 shipped or Crucial for $58. Those are a bit more than half as expensive as Apple's CTO upgrade prices.

Keep in mind that if you don't purchase RAM from Apple as CTO it won't be included in your MB's warranty or AppleCare. Of course good RAM will come with its own (often lifelong) warranty. To play it safe I'd keep Apple's stock RAM around in case you ever have to send the MB in.

[Chinasaur]

I'm also looking at the 2.4Ghz Macbook, but my head is telling me to go with a refurb'd 2.0Ghz with the 9400M chip. Refurb store has it for $849 which is a great price for that chip. Only the plastic vs aluminum issue is keeping me from buying.

Either way, be sure to go via the refurb'd store. it's a $200 savings on the Unibody Macbook 2.4Ghz!

[Simon]

Get the plastic only if you need FW. Otherwise definitely go unibody. It offers a lot more than the plastic and the only thing it doesn't match or exceed is FW. There's a 2.0 GHz unibody model at the refurb store for $1099 right now. The 2.4 GHz model is $1299.

[macfix]

Do you qualify for the education discount?