student replacing powerbook

Option 1.

I was in the same situation
and ended up buying a mac mini and hooking it up to my tv and stereo so that I still have my powerbook and I have a mac that can run windows, a media server, and a dvd player.

I think you should wait a little while (say until mid January) and then make your final decision.

However, if you've been using a 15" Powerbook, there might be minor things about you might miss if you go with a macbook rather than a macbook pro (like the backlit keyboard, better speakers, matte screen option, etc).

I think your best bet is to go for a mbp (once it's updated) as it will be a lighter, faster, thinner, and all around superior version of your current Powerbook. Even though the macbook will be faster, lighter, and thinner (I think), you'll be giving up some luxuries you might have grown used to with that Powerbook.

I'd go the macbook pro route too. This may not be everyones case, but once I got into the world of pro laptops I couldn't go backwards. I really just missed the screen options (i had a matte first, and i have a glossy now, but i still don't like the glossy in the macbooks as opposed to my MBP glossy (who knows why )) , the 15inch size and the backlit keyboard. Not to mention, who knows, you may want to game a bit or have a use for a graphics card that isn't integrated down the line.

If you can afford it i'd go mbp.

Assuming your powerbook is still in decent shape it should fetch you a pretty decent sum. I'd say 600+ on ebay (yes... people like them powerbooks and will pay more then they are worth) to put towards your new comp.

I am also a HUGE fan of having one computer at school. Because, the backup computer point is mostly moot as the school has lots of computer to use if you need to, and it's good to have all your stuff with you when you go places and to class etc.

I'd go the macbook pro route. Student discount if they release some awesome updates at macworld, or refurb if not, pick up a decent monitor and you'll have one kick ass computer.

Not to mention your powerbook bag and such should (yes i know it's 15.4 instead of 15.2... but most normal bags won't matter too much) fit it fine.

Oh.. grab an external keyboard and mouse too if you don't already have one. Gives you a much better desktop feel.



gl!

edit: it looks like powerbooks like yours are still fetching over 700 on ebay! That will help fund your purchase!