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2.4 GHz MBP or 2.8 GHz iMac

J

Jack Flash

macrumors 65816
Original poster
May 8, 2007
1,160
7
I can't decide. Apple has refurb 2.4 GHz MBPs (latest revision with multitouch and 256 MB 8600M GT) for the same price as a 2.8 GHz iMac upgraded with the 8800 GS after student discount.

It's a toss-up. I'm in college. I don't prefer taking my laptop to class or the library as I find it more a temptation than anything productive, but some portability does seem practical.

I had a MacBook before and sold it as I wanted a discreet graphics card. Most of the time it was parked at my desk, but occasionally I did take it to the library. However, the last 3 weeks of the semester I was without it, and did fine using the library's computers. That leads me to believe I don't need portability.

So, for my $2000 purchase, what do you guys think?
 
Eidorian said:
What do you need a discrete graphics card for?
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I'd like to play a couple games in Bootcamp (Orange Box, Warcraft III, etc) and be able to better handle programs like Pixelmator or Final Cut Express.
 
Eidorian said:
Get a Windows desktop and a MacBook then.

See my signature.
Click to expand...

I really prefer to keep it a one computer solution, as crazy as that might sound.

Essentially, I'm not a hardcore gamer and when I get tired of the games I am playing I don't want a huge ATX form factor desktop cluttering my tiny apartment bedroom.
 
Jack Flash said:
I really prefer to keep it a one computer solution, as crazy as that might sound.

Essentially, I'm not a hardcore gamer and when I get tired of the games I am playing I don't want a huge ATX form factor desktop cluttering my tiny apartment bedroom.
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I happen to live in just one room and I have more then enough space for my two computers. :confused:

Micro ATX works just fine for me.
 
Eidorian said:
I happen to live in just one room and I have more then enough space for my two computers. :confused:

Micro ATX works just fine for me.
Click to expand...

I do agree that would be a valid solution, but I just don't see it as something I desire to do.

I am somewhat leaning towards the MacBook Pro as it seems to be a nice compromise in terms of processor speed and graphics power combined wth portability.
 
They're both great machines. Both machines should do the things you want to do fine.(The iMac is faster though)
I guess what it comes down to is, do you want the extra power or do you want portability.
 
M-apple-T said:
They're both great machines. Both machines should do the things you want to do fine.(The iMac is faster though)
I guess what it comes down to is, do you want the extra power or do you want portability.
Click to expand...

The huge resolution jump the iMac has is a big boost to productivity, also.
 
minik said:
If you end up getting the MBP, please lock it down or keep your eye on it.
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Oh I'm no stranger to keeping a grasp on my stuff living in Atlanta. I always use a Kensington Lock, even while I am seated at the computer. Of course I lock my doors when I leave.

With my iMac I would certainly use a Kensington style lock, but also loop a security cable through the center hole in the stand similar to how I secured my Dell 2007WFP when I had it.

Example:
SANY0016.jpg
 
but but but, you could build such a NICE desktop with the extra 800 bucks if you get a macbook

can you say quad core and Radeon 3870?

heck i got a MBP and a desktop for gaming / video editing
 
squeeks said:
but but but, you could build such a NICE desktop with the extra 800 bucks if you get a macbook

can you say quad core and Radeon 3870?

heck i got a MBP and a desktop for gaming / video editing
Click to expand...

But that would defeat my original reason for getting away from the MacBook; I didn't have enough power to run the Apple Apps I wanted. Gaming is not a huge priority for me, not to the extent that I'd be willing to have two machines, one specific for games.
 
iMac Portability

If you're wanting an iMac for the usage but still need it to be portable, check our www.iLugger.com. They specialize in bags specifically for iMacs. There are different colors to choose from and they're super durable.
 
I would get the MBP and a cheap 20" or 24" screen to go along with it. (and a wireless keyboard and mouse too)
 
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