Just got a new Macbook

[docc]

Hi Guys,

I just purchased a brand new Macbook 2.16 Ghz with 1GB RAM and 120 GB HDD on an educational discount and opted for the free Nano and Printer option which i'll probably just give to my buddies :).

This is the first time i have ever been on a mac and i'm almost kicking myself for not making this transition earlier. I can actually summarize OS X in one word....EASY. Anyways, i'm just glad that i decided to make the switch! Apple has some fantastic help pages on making the switch from a PC to the Mac and it helped me immensely in understanding mac basics in such a short time. Here's the link incase anyone's interested:

Switchers Guide (http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=303638)

I'm glad to be a part of this great forum where everyone's just so helpful. Look forward to some good times!

Cheers.

P.S. I also got myself a Speck case for my white Macbook and it's simply great!

[sanzaborn33]

Congrats! You got the whitebook, yes?

[docc]

Yep. Black's an absolute finger magnet and i'm a little obsessive comuplsive ;)

[sanzaborn33]

I keep going back and forth between the BlackBook and a 15" MBP, but keep leaning towards the MBP 15" as the fingerprint issue on those black cases would drive me absolutely nuts. Unfortunately, my personal preference isn't for the white case, so again, my credit card begins to slide out of my money clip when I see the new MBP 15". But the problems with these new machines is making me very, very leary about purchasing a MBP anytime soon...

Oh well. I'm just nuts. Have fun with your new MB though!!

[66217]

I keep going back and forth between the BlackBook and a 15" MBP, but keep leaning towards the MBP 15" as the fingerprint issue on those black cases would drive me absolutely nuts. Unfortunately, my personal preference isn't for the white case, so again, my credit card begins to slide out of my money clip when I see the new MBP 15". But the problems with these new machines is making me very, very leary about purchasing a MBP anytime soon...

Oh well. I'm just nuts. Have fun with your new MB though!!

I have a Black MB, and even tho they show fingerprints, it isn't as bad as it looks.

And also, the new MBPs problems is difficult to say it is a general problem. Since the people with problems come to the forums and the ones without problems does not come, it's difficult to say what percentage is having problems.

But either one you choose, you are going to love it.:)

[docc]

I keep going back and forth between the BlackBook and a 15" MBP, but keep leaning towards the MBP 15" as the fingerprint issue on those black cases would drive me absolutely nuts. Unfortunately, my personal preference isn't for the white case, so again, my credit card begins to slide out of my money clip when I see the new MBP 15". But the problems with these new machines is making me very, very leary about purchasing a MBP anytime soon...

Oh well. I'm just nuts. Have fun with your new MB though!!

It really comes down to what you need to do with it. I did an EXTENSIVE research before deciding on the Macbook. i didn't care for gaming on hard-core media editing and hence felt the Macbook fitted my needs. Besides, i prefer the Macbook's keyboard way more than MBP. Also, the 13.3" is plenty if you intend to use it for day to day work as compared to the large MBP which can become a pit of a pain to lug around.

Good luck with your purchase!

[sanzaborn33]

I have a Black MB, and even tho they show fingerprints, it isn't as bad as it looks.


Do you find yourself cleaning the palm-rest area daily and if so, are you just using a damp cloth or something?? Thanks!

[sanzaborn33]

It really comes down to what you need to do with it. I did an EXTENSIVE research before deciding on the Macbook. i didn't care for gaming on hard-core media editing and hence felt the Macbook fitted my needs. Besides, i prefer the Macbook's keyboard way more than MBP. Also, the 13.3" is plenty if you intend to use it for day to day work as compared to the large MBP which can become a pit of a pain to lug around.

Good luck with your purchase!

I couldn't agree more here. You really like the new keyboard though? I can't tell after playing around with the Macbook at an Apple store near me if I would get used to the the newer style versus the old, pro style keyboard that's currently on my 12" PB G4?

[docc]

Yea, i was a little concerned about the new keyboard myself but i didn't notice any difference at all. Infact, i actually make less mistakes thanks to the fact that the keys are space out as compared to the "in-line strip" like keyboard layout on most notebooks.

I suggest you try out the keyboard at your local Apple store a couple of times if you have your doubts. I love the Apple store...everyone there is really friendly and no one really bothers you however long you decide to stay and play with their products!!!

Do let us know what you end up getting. GL!

[drake]

Hey, how do you use the iPod rebate AND the printer rebate at the same time? They both require the Macbook UPC code.

[docc]

Yea, thats exactly what was on my mind when they first told me i could get 2 free products on rebate. You need to send the UPC code for one product and a copy of the UPC code and invoice for the other product. Confirm this with your Apple retailer before you send these in, just incase policies vary store by store.

[xpovos]

It really comes down to what you need to do with it. I did an EXTENSIVE research before deciding on the Macbook...

So true. As the owner of two MacBook Pros and one (white "ultimate edition", Core Duo) MacBook, I have to admit that even though I personally prefer the MacBook Pro, the regular MacBook is a better value for the money. It's lighter, travels better, more durable and rugged, and seems to suffer from fewer quality control issues. While I had to return several MacBook Pros before getting a problem-free unit, my white MacBook has never given me a bit of trouble. My wife's MacBook is also perfect, as is my father's. In fact, I've recently considered selling my MacBook and my 15" MacBook pro, and using the money to buy one of the updated black MacBooks. (Keeping the 17" SR MBP as the primary laptop, using MacBook for travel, testing code, etc.)

So congratulations on your purchase. It's a solid model that will serve you well.

[sanzaborn33]

Very good information here everyone. All info is much appreciated by people (like myself) waiting and lurking in the wings with credit card in hand...

[66217]

Do you find yourself cleaning the palm-rest area daily and if so, are you just using a damp cloth or something?? Thanks!

I clean the palmrest area quite often, but not daily. Maybe at first I cleaned it almost every 3 hours, but you get used to it.;)

By no means does it looks ugly, it is just that maybe I am too anal about keeping my things clean.
You won't regret getting a Black MB, it is a great computer and everywhere I take it they say how beautiful it looks. So don't decide which Mac to get by how fingerprints would show up, but more by how much you need the best hardware in the MBP.

BTW, I use iKlear to clean it.

[docc]

A high end MB (white) costs about $1300 while a high end MBP costs $2500 which is almost twice the price. For 2x the price, all you get is a slightly faster processor, an extra gig of RAM (which can be purchased for 40 bucks btw), 40GB larger HD (big deal) and a dedicated GPU. I agree that the GPU is where the real value is but paying 2x the price for all of this is unacceptable to me. I didn't mention the larger screen because that really wasn't a big deal to me since 13.3" more than serves my purpose.

Also, the whole thing about Santa Rosa doesn't really get me excited because the improvement in performance is just marginal. I think the next generation of MB and MBP's will be the real upgrade and the recently announced upgrades are just space-fillers. Whatever the situation, both are fantastic notebooks and we should be proud to be a part of the wonderful Mac community.

[xpovos]

Do you find yourself cleaning the palm-rest area daily and if so, are you just using a damp cloth or something?? Thanks!

Little alcohol pads work very well on the palm rests. Please do NOT use them on the display.

iKlear to clean and a Marware protection pack to keep clean and add comfort (if you don't mind the looks of the thing).

[xpovos]

A high end MB (white) costs about $1300 while a high end MBP costs $2500 which is almost twice the price. For 2x the price, all you get is a slightly faster processor, an extra gig of RAM (which can be purchased for 40 bucks btw), 40GB larger HD (big deal) and a dedicated GPU. I agree that the GPU is where the real value is but paying 2x the price for all of this is unacceptable to me. I didn't mention the larger screen because that really wasn't a big deal to me since 13.3" more than serves my purpose.

Also, the whole thing about Santa Rosa doesn't really get me excited because the improvement in performance is just marginal. I think the next generation of MB and MBP's will be the real upgrade and the recently announced upgrades are just space-fillers. Whatever the situation, both are fantastic notebooks and we should be proud to be a part of the wonderful Mac community.

My preference for the MBP is based on the larger screen but more on the NON-GLOSSY screen, because I dislike glossy displays. I also prefer the MBP keyboard, although I like both keyboards. But you're absolutely right: the hardware differences really don't justify the price difference.

[GusR9]

COngratulations man!!
Just enjoy it!

[docc]

Thanks mates, i intend to. I really wish i had made the transition to a Mac a long time back. I used to be one of those Mac haters and now after using a Mac, i'm in search for a "I love Mac" t-shirt :D. Oh well, as the corny ol' saying goes...."Better later than never..." :)

[foxdougan]

Yep, I'm a recent switcher too and I have to say I'm very glad with my choice of a 2.0Ghz 2GB 120GB Whitebook - the last laptop I had (PC/Windows) had panels on the back which fell off after a few weeks, it needed a booster for the internet connection as the dongle which came with it was so crap.

But now, everything is built-in on the macbook, I can run Final Cut (when I tried Avid on my last machine it wouldn't work, as the sound card isn't compatible) and I can actually carry the thing about without my arm breaking off! Oh the days of getting sores on my hands from my leather laptop case, running around airports and constantly feeling the strain of my lappy all the way :D

I did have a problem within the first few days - DVDs wouldn't play for some reason. After a quick run of the disk utility it was all back to normal.

It's so true that, once you go Mac, you never go back ;)

[docc]

Welcome to the minimalist society! :D

[waterskier2007]

I keep going back and forth between the BlackBook and a 15" MBP, but keep leaning towards the MBP 15" as the fingerprint issue on those black cases would drive me absolutely nuts. Unfortunately, my personal preference isn't for the white case, so again, my credit card begins to slide out of my money clip when I see the new MBP 15". But the problems with these new machines is making me very, very leary about purchasing a MBP anytime soon...

Oh well. I'm just nuts. Have fun with your new MB though!!

i got the blackbook and i love it and the fingerprints are really not that bad because you can just wipe them off with your palm and it leaves no mark. this blackbook is amazing

[sanzaborn33]

Thanks everyone for help with my questions. And docc, I'm sorry I totally hi-jacked your thread here with my own questions. You have been very helpful.

After much thinking (as many of you know how long it took you to make your final buying decisions) I am going to go to the Apple store near me tomorrow morning or Friday and pick up....What's that?!?! A shiny new BlackBook!

I already have 2GB of memory and a Logitech VX mouse on it's way and being overnighted. Here's the memory I have ordered:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820231116

And I have to get the new Brenthaven shoulder case for the Macbook, as my older Brenthaven covering my current 12" PB has seen better days.

I'll post some pics after the purchase is made!

[waterskier2007]

Thanks everyone for help with my questions. And docc, I'm sorry I totally hi-jacked your thread here with my own questions. You have been very helpful.

After much thinking (as many of you know how long it took you to make your final buying decisions) I am going to go to the Apple store near me tomorrow morning or Friday and pick up....What's that?!?! A shiny new BlackBook!

I already have 2GB of memory and a Logitech VX mouse on it's way and being overnighted. Here's the memory I have ordered:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820231116

And I have to get the new Brenthaven shoulder case for the Macbook, as my older Brenthaven covering my current 12" PB has seen better days.

I'll post some pics after the purchase is made!

nice choice, you definitely wont regret it

[docc]

Thanks everyone for help with my questions. And docc, I'm sorry I totally hi-jacked your thread here with my own questions. You have been very helpful.

After much thinking (as many of you know how long it took you to make your final buying decisions) I am going to go to the Apple store near me tomorrow morning or Friday and pick up....What's that?!?! A shiny new BlackBook!

I already have 2GB of memory and a Logitech VX mouse on it's way and being overnighted. Here's the memory I have ordered:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820231116

And I have to get the new Brenthaven shoulder case for the Macbook, as my older Brenthaven covering my current 12" PB has seen better days.

I'll post some pics after the purchase is made!

Don't worry about it, we're all here to help each other :) Congrats on making a decision...now the waiting starts! Also, any specific reason you chose to go with the Black color? Do you really think the color warrants the premium you pay for it? Well, if money is no object, then go nuts! :D

Whatever the case, enjoy your new toys! Wahoo!

[sanzaborn33]

Also, any specific reason you chose to go with the Black color? Do you really think the color warrants the premium you pay for it?

No, you're right for sure. The black color absolutely does NOT warrant the price premium (much less the 40GB more HDD space), but my personal preference is not for a white colored computer. I know, I know. I need to leave my ego at the door and just save some good coin and just get a white one. But, at the same time, the black color MB is really growing on me and I hope that it would be overall easier to sell in 3 years versus another notebook.

[sanzaborn33]

OK! I picked up a new Black MacBook from the Apple store in Oak Brook, IL. this past Thursday. Shweet!!!

First impressions were excellent. The gentleman that helped me out at that Apple store let me open up the box in front of him (he was even curteous enough to give me the cutting honors!) and make sure it powered on with no problems. He then let me go ahead and enter in my first-boot information and settings. Upon entering OSX for the first time on the MB everything looked great! No dead pixels, no weird backlighting, nothing bad at all.

Upon further use...you guessed it!!?? Everything is still working great and I have fallen in love with yet another one of my Apple purchases throughout the years.
(My first Mac ever was a 667Mhz DVI TiBook that got me through me undergraduate days and I still sorta wish I had to this day.) But this BlackBook is absolutely perfect for what I need it to do.

When I got home that day I first installed my 2 - 1GB G.Skill memory modules that I received the day before from NewEgg. Those have been performing flawlessly and were tested for errors. All is good there! I then plugged in the BlackBook and let the machine charge and stay charged for ~3 hours before I unplugged the machine and began to let the machine drain down to zero power and sleep mode.

After sucessfully calibrating the battery and checking to see what Apple had put on the machine, I installed Adobe CS3, Flip4Mac, & FireFox. I also really had to install one of the first Mac games that I have ever played (coming from being a long time PC gamer and still am), Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. While the game runs OK with most of the settings at high, I can't play at any resolution higher than 1024x768, but no big deal. I did NOT purchase this Blackbook with the intentions of it being a stellar gaming rig, but rather, a machine that would allow me to run Dreamweaver, PS, iTunes, and do my web and email surfing at the same time. With those options, this notebook does NOT disappoint!

Keyboard has taken a little getting used to, but I have pretty much forgotten what my old 12" G4 PB's keyboard fealt like at this point. Screen res is definitely better than my 12" PB but on par with my older TiBook. The big difference is that my BlackBook's screen is considerably brighter, so much so that I keep the brightness turned down 2-4 notches from high.

Boot up time is considerably faster than any of my past Mac's, obviously owing this feat to the C2D chip inside. I have also installed VMWare beta 4.1 and subsequently Ubuntu 7.04 and Windows XP Professional. All those have been running great in the virtual world. I will also install BootCamp beta 1.3 tonight and begin to screw with Vista on the machine to see how it handles.

Everything is running great! Machine does not get very loud unless I begin to tax the hell out of the CPU with many CPU intensive apps open. Airport connection to my D-Link DGL-4300 router has been great! I have the BlackBook connected to the router using WPA2 and have had no real issues there.

Let's see...What else. Superdrive is a blast! Haven't had any coasters yet and I have burnt several DVD's and CD's thus far. Battery time has been great, though I really haven't had to take the MacBook where I couldn't just as easily plug it in when I was doing some serious computing action.

My ONLY gripe would be the fingerprints and oil slicks around the palm rests and keys, but so far I have just told myself to get over it and enjoy the fact that I have a kick-ass machine that has had no serious, or even moderate issues thus far! (knocks on wood!)

Anyone have any questions, just give a hollar!

[ktbubster]

compared to the large MBP which can become a pit of a pain to lug around.

Awww! It's quotes like these that make my poor wittle macbook pro self concious of itself! :( He's barely a lb heavier then a macbook, and there is no "lugging!" there is only happy easy toting going around here! Any decent size bag fits it perfectly :-P

::hugs mbp::

[turnstylez18]

OK! I picked up a new Black MacBook from the Apple store in Oak Brook, IL. this past Thursday. Shweet!!!

First impressions were excellent. The gentleman that helped me out at that Apple store let me open up the box in front of him (he was even curteous enough to give me the cutting honors!) and make sure it powered on with no problems. He then let me go ahead and enter in my first-boot information and settings. Upon entering OSX for the first time on the MB everything looked great! No dead pixels, no weird backlighting, nothing bad at all.

Upon further use...you guessed it!!?? Everything is still working great and I have fallen in love with yet another one of my Apple purchases throughout the years.
(My first Mac ever was a 667Mhz DVI TiBook that got me through me undergraduate days and I still sorta wish I had to this day.) But this BlackBook is absolutely perfect for what I need it to do.

When I got home that day I first installed my 2 - 1GB G.Skill memory modules that I received the day before from NewEgg. Those have been performing flawlessly and were tested for errors. All is good there! I then plugged in the BlackBook and let the machine charge and stay charged for ~3 hours before I unplugged the machine and began to let the machine drain down to zero power and sleep mode.

After sucessfully calibrating the battery and checking to see what Apple had put on the machine, I installed Adobe CS3, Flip4Mac, & FireFox. I also really had to install one of the first Mac games that I have ever played (coming from being a long time PC gamer and still am), Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. While the game runs OK with most of the settings at high, I can't play at any resolution higher than 1024x768, but no big deal. I did NOT purchase this Blackbook with the intentions of it being a stellar gaming rig, but rather, a machine that would allow me to run Dreamweaver, PS, iTunes, and do my web and email surfing at the same time. With those options, this notebook does NOT disappoint!

Keyboard has taken a little getting used to, but I have pretty much forgotten what my old 12" G4 PB's keyboard fealt like at this point. Screen res is definitely better than my 12" PB but on par with my older TiBook. The big difference is that my BlackBook's screen is considerably brighter, so much so that I keep the brightness turned down 2-4 notches from high.

Boot up time is considerably faster than any of my past Mac's, obviously owing this feat to the C2D chip inside. I have also installed VMWare beta 4.1 and subsequently Ubuntu 7.04 and Windows XP Professional. All those have been running great in the virtual world. I will also install BootCamp beta 1.3 tonight and begin to screw with Vista on the machine to see how it handles.

Everything is running great! Machine does not get very loud unless I begin to tax the hell out of the CPU with many CPU intensive apps open. Airport connection to my D-Link DGL-4300 router has been great! I have the BlackBook connected to the router using WPA2 and have had no real issues there.

Let's see...What else. Superdrive is a blast! Haven't had any coasters yet and I have burnt several DVD's and CD's thus far. Battery time has been great, though I really haven't had to take the MacBook where I couldn't just as easily plug it in when I was doing some serious computing action.

My ONLY gripe would be the fingerprints and oil slicks around the palm rests and keys, but so far I have just told myself to get over it and enjoy the fact that I have a kick-ass machine that has had no serious, or even moderate issues thus far! (knocks on wood!)

Anyone have any questions, just give a hollar!

thats whole essay :D just got me more excited on getting my macbook...i cant wait....