Ok. Let's assume that I decided to go with a portable, but am now struggling with whether to get a MacBook or MacBook Pro.
"Easy!!" you say. "The MBP is better!" Well, it's not quite that simple...
I've had hands on both systems. The MacBook is lighter, sturdier (lots of "flex" in the MBP's chassis), and looks better IMO. The MacBook Pro has better graphics, additional expansion ports, and all the goodies that go along with the new Santa Rosa chipset (4GB max ram and faster FSB).
I'll be buying a 250GB, 5400rpm internal drive and 2x2GB ram upgrade for either of them (the MacBook will only be able to address 3.1GB of the ram, but by getting matched pairs, I will get the increased performance of dual channel memory access).
I will be buying an external display for use with either of them. Although I initially considered a 30" display if I went with the MBP, I think I'll stick with a 24" Dell regardless...so that I can take advantage of it, at native resolution, with other computers in my possession (that are minus the dual-link DVI output necessary to drive a 30").
So, with all upgrades and accessories being equal, we are looking at the following comparison:
MacBook - $1348
- 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- lowest offerings for ram and hdd
- Applecare
MacBook Pro - $2848
- 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- lowest offerings for ram and hdd
- 256MB 8600M GT GPU (if I'm going for the better graphics option, I'm getting the BEST GPU offering)
- Applecare
Now, I need to say this. I've spent the last 12 months in Iraq making very good money. I initially budgeted for a fully pimped out Mac Pro (I'll let you price it out)...So, I have the money to go with any option I please. However, I am being realistic in that I know if I buy multiple Mac's (like an iMac and a MB/MBP), one will be largely ignored. Also, I know that, even though I have intentions of keeping a new computer for 2-3 years, I never do. In fact, it is always a struggle to keep something around ONE YEAR. (ashort can vouch for me on this)
That's a $1500 premium for the MBP over the MB. My singular reason for wanting the better GPU is the upcoming StarCraft 2. I know that World of Warcraft plays good enough for my enjoyment on the MacBook...as I own a 1st gen CD MacBook (passed on to my wife). If they upgraded the MB to the new SR chipset with the upgraded integrated Intel graphics, I think it would be a no-brainer...but the GMA950 is getting VERY long in the tooth.
When back home, I carry my laptop with me a LOT. Now, as I mentioned in the other thread, I currently own a very light, very portable ThinkPad X60s (Linux). I don't have plans to sell this (but may later on if it goes largely unused). If I went with a Mac portable, it would be because I want OS X with me when I am out and about, on vacation, training, in the office, etc.
I know it ultimately comes down to what I want, what I can justify to myself, etc...but it helps to "talk" about it.