15" baseline v 13" for gaming/after effects

[Ry.]

Wirelessly posted

Hi there, considering the base cMBP 15" for some 3D modelling, after effects, pro tools and maybe some gaming (bf3, skyrim..)

Im on a tight budget, so i maybe have to buy the 15" on finance if I chose that one.

Would the 13" be able to handle these tasks? I have the money to purchase it outright (its £850 with student discount) so it would be a lot lighter on my bank balance. I know programs like AE and maya are demanding so I thought id ask before I went ahead with anything.

Thanks

 

[SnowLeopard2008]

Depends on your workload. For light to moderate, 13" should do. If anything serious then go 15". You could also look into refurbished 15" or even 13" too.

 

[Ry.]

Wirelessly posted

Refurbs cost just a tad more than a new one with student discount. I was thinking of gettin the base 13", keeping it until haswell, sell it and put the cash towards a 15" when ive saved up a bit more.

It the HD4000 enough to handle light gaming on modest settings?

 

[Maven1975]

Skyrim yes, BF3 .. Nope. 720p gaming on low settings.

 

[snaky69]

Wirelessly posted

Hi there, considering the base cMBP 15" for some 3D modelling, after effects, pro tools and maybe some gaming (bf3, skyrim..)

Im on a tight budget, so i maybe have to buy the 15" on finance if I chose that one.

Would the 13" be able to handle these tasks? I have the money to purchase it outright (its £850 with student discount) so it would be a lot lighter on my bank balance. I know programs like AE and maya are demanding so I thought id ask before I went ahead with anything.

Thanks

The 15" if you plan on doing any gaming at all, why anyone would buy a laptop with integrated graphics for gaming is beyond me. I doubt the 4000HD can run either of the games you mentionned without all details and resolution set all the way down.

 

[Ry.]

Is the 13" powerful enough for after effects, maya and pro tools? I have an xbox for gaming so its not a deal breaker if it cant handle games.