Hey guys, getting a 13" rMBP for college from bestbuy. Gonna be using it mostly for web browsing and research papers, so nothing intensive. I'm trying to decided between the 4gb/128 and 8gb/256 versions. I can get the first for $1100 with discounts, and the second for $1300. I tend to upgrade my electronics often, so I'm thinking the cheaper first one and getting the broadwell refresh.
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4gb/128gb vs 8gb/256gb rMBP
- Thread starter Drock93
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The 2.4/8/256 seems likely to hold its value better. Since you said you change frequently, I'd go with 8/256.
You can see it with the 4/128 model already - they're being listed on Craigslist starting in the $800s and going up to to $1050 (which is absurd). The 8/256 models get listed starting at about $1250 on up, with one enterprising person trying to sell a used one for full retail (which is also absurd).
And I think the 4/128 model will crater further once a replacement comes out, whenever that is.
You can see it with the 4/128 model already - they're being listed on Craigslist starting in the $800s and going up to to $1050 (which is absurd). The 8/256 models get listed starting at about $1250 on up, with one enterprising person trying to sell a used one for full retail (which is also absurd).
And I think the 4/128 model will crater further once a replacement comes out, whenever that is.
I have a gaming pc that I built myself, but I strictly use it for games and am thinking about selling it, and moving to a macbook with an external display for my main setup. I also have an iPad, iPhone, and PS4. Had a 2011 Macbook Pro 13" for a few years, and am really wanting another.
How long would the 4gb RAM version last for the typical user? 3 years at least? I will use it for browsing, papers, and maybe light gaming.
Part of me says go with the cheaper base model and use that ~$200 for accessories (like a keyboard, mouse, stand, and applecare). While the other part of me says go for the 8GB/256GB to "future proof".
With those needs, you would be fine with 4GB for the next 4-5 years. I just gave my 2GB MBA to a relative, and web browsing, watching movies, writing, and light gaming ran perfectly on the latest version of Mavericks. In a year or so, 2GB will probably not be enough. 4GB is plenty though.