New 17" MBP: 7200rpm vs 5400rpm and 1x2GB RAM

[AndersK]

Hello

I am about to buy my first mac. I think it's going to be the 17" MacBook Pro with the HD display.

But which harddisk should I choose, 7200 or 5400? Does the 7200 consume much more power and generate much more heat than 5400?
I'm studying architecture and for me the most important thing is screen and RAM i think. So maybe I dont need the fastest harddisk, or?

And can't I buy MacBook Pro with 1x2GB RAM instead of 2x1GB? I want to upgrade to 4GB but Apples RAM prices are pretty expensive.

Please help a mac rookie

Anders K

 

[hawaiian]

Hey,

I just got my 17" MBP with HD display and a 7200 RPM hard drive. In my opinion, it functions just fine. I usually turn down the brightness when I'm running on battery, and I get about 4 hours. That's with WiFi, and some Hard disk accesses through internet and word processing use.

I think the speed of the hard drive you want depends on your personality. When your system makes any disk access or needs to page in/out a page to/from memory, then the 7200 RPM disk will be faster. Noticeably faster? Not sure...I guess that depends on the kind work and programs you use.

1x2GB of RAM would allow you to upgrade later with 3rd Party RAM to 4GB but remember that 2x1GB is still cheaper than 1x2GB. I agree, apple prices are expensive when it comes to RAM. If you're set on upgrading to 4GB, then look for prices of RAM online and compare to see how much you save. Crucial RAM seems to be popular on this form.

Good luck!

 

[AndersK]

Thanks.
I still not sure about the disk. It is difficult to compare the speed against the batteri life.

But about the RAM: Is 1x2GB possible? I dont find that option on the website...

 

[whateverandever]

Thanks.
I still not sure about the disk. It is difficult to compare the speed against the batteri life.

But about the RAM: Is 1x2GB possible? I dont find that option on the website...

No, not possible, and even if it were, they'd probably charge more than $90 for it (the price of a 2GB module).

If you want to upgrade to 4GB, just sell the 1GB modules on eBay or Craigslist.
Then buy these: http://www.outpost.com/product/5200767

 

[PimpDaddy]

If you don't think you're gonna need the faster "harddisk" and want some more battery life, then don't buy it... I bought it as I feel like I need the speed(i'm going to use it as an desktop replacement). I ordered the 17'' HD as well. Can't wait for TNT to get their finger out and ship it from Arnhem to here(Copenhagen)