Hi guys, just need some genuine advice here. I'm looking to get a new MBP but I'm toasting between the new rMBP and MBP 17". Both of them will cost about the same but personally I do prefer the larger screen. Do you think it's stupid if spending the money on a 17" MBP instead of the new rMBP?
Cheers.
I have both a new MBP_R and a 17" 2011 MBP.
As one with a lot of experience with all the various models of MBP's, I highly endorse the 17" over the MBP_R.
Sure there is the retina display... a feature that is surrounded by lots of buzz as it's new, and highly hyped. While it's very nice, it's very important to remember the MBP_R is not upgradeable, and worse, it's not easily repaired.
In the event something should happen to the display it cannot be replaced in the conventional sense, since it's now a part of the lid, it's a one piece bonded assembly. So the only way to replace one that fails is to replace the entire top half of the computer... very pricey. If under warranty that's one thing, but once you are out of warranty you are on your own.
The same holds true for the battery that is glued in place. For $200, Apple will replace it, but do you really want that?
The only reason I bought the new retina model is because I can easily afford it, it's not my only computer, and as a long time Apple enthusiast, I like to keep up with the latest in Apple tech.
Yet that said, when asked by friends and family for a suggestion I would _never_ in good faith, suggest the MBP_R.
It is so new there is no track record, it's well known that for the most part, a throwaway computer. Not very green if you ask me. Oh sure they claim it's made from easily recyclable materials, but I suggest that's not necessarily the case.
I'm on my third 17" MBP in six years and could not be happier, these are very fine machines which truly reflect Apple's best work.
Buy _anything_ other than a MBP_R.
