Torn Uni Student - 11inch MBA vs 13inch MBP

[Road-Crosser]

I currently use a white macbook. My main use is just basic emailing, internet, and using iWork and Microsoft Office for completing assignments etc. Light use of iPhoto and iTunes - nothing to heavy.

I'm wanting to upgrade and find the 11.3inch MBA really appealing.I feel like it would be ultra portable and great for pulling out in lectures to record notes on with the instant wake. However, I'm concerned about the screen size - the 13inch is out of my price range at over NZ$2200 compared to 1600. I've never used anything less than 13inches.

I could also go for the MBP - its got the bigger screen. However, although its not heavy - won't be as portable as the MBA (obviously).

What I'm asking is - given my purpose do you think the 11inch MBA or the MBP would be better? can the MBA do everything I want it too and the screen size not be a pain?

 

[Apple OC]

The MBA will suit your needs fine and you will be very sexy on Campus

The MBP however will give you more bang for the buck and if your needs ever increase ... will outperform the Air.

I would still consider in the sexy factor if you also have a solid Desktop

 

[AAPLaday]

It can handle the tasks you need but the screen size issue you would have to judge for yourself. Try to see one in person to decide

 

[Road-Crosser]

I'm thinking the MBA would be great.

I might go check out some netbooks to judge the screen size

 

[zodqyv]

I am an old man (42) who decided to go back to graduate school. I presently spend a lot of time on campus, plus I run a microbusiness from home (I have worked for myself for over a decade now).

I presently have a 13" MacBook Pro which I prefer to a desktop, and I am also a heavy user of both the iPhone and the iPad. With that in mind, I just ordered an 11.6" MacBook Air. The Air will be the only machine I use on campus, or for schoolwork.

 

[eshroom]

Depends how much moving around you do. Also as a student I enjoyed watching the odd movie in my dorm room etc. So a 13" minimum would be recommended in this case.

 

[Apple OC]

a netbook will not show you a good comparison ... the 11 inch Air has a screen better than any netbook out there

if you can get to an Apple store when they have them on display ... that is your best bet

I take it as a student this is a big purchase for you and a long term decision.

if you want to be sure ... go to the Apple Store for the real test.

 

[J400uk]

I'm coming from a White MacBook to the 11" Air. Yes it is slightly less powerful, but the faster graphics and SSD should make it feel nice and snappy, and its certainly a much nicer size to work with.. as well as looking a lot better. MacBook Pro is more expensive and comes with a conventional hard drive and lower resolution (albeit larger) screen, but its more powerful. I don't think the MBP is worth the extra unless you actually need the extra power. I reckon the Air will be more than sufficient for most Office/ Web type uses.

 

[Road-Crosser]

Its not so much a big purchase - its more I just was to make the right decision.

There is no way I'll get to see it in any store soon. In New Zealand we have no 'Apple Stores' and it take a long time to get them in normal retail stores. I only saw a new iPod touch in store about a week ago.

From the feedback I feel it should be alright and it'll do everything I want it to

 

[Apple OC]

then I say go for the Air ... you will be very happy

the screen you get will be awesome and will work perfect in class

 

[sparkie7]

Its tough being a student these days in the land of the long white cloud huh

Which model will pull the punani.. decisions, decisions, you poor bugger