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17 macbook pro too big

is 17 mbp just too big

  • too big

    Votes: 492 53.1%

  • not too big

    Votes: 434 46.9%
  • Total voters
    926
No, it isn't too big.

I read this thread a couple times before deciding what to buy, a 15" or a 17", and I'm glad I bought the 17".

The 1920x1200 screen is awesome, and, for me, it's just as portable as the 15" was. I really can't tell the difference when carrying this one or the 15" in the case; it's not really that bigger than the 15".

I'm actually writing this with the MBP on my lap, and I hardly notice any difference from the 15". I carry the 17" around as I did with the 15", I can even pick it up with one hand.

I also have a Macbook Air first generation, so I know what portable is. The Air makes a LOT of difference from the 15" and 17", but going from the 15" to 17" it's about the same.
 
tim100 said:
do you think the 17 macbook pro is too big for normal computer usage (not talking about professional usage thay require the extra size like photograhers and video) is it too big for the rest of us? is the extra screen space and pixels not worth the compormise in size?
Click to expand...

Personally, I think the 17 inch is too big. I think that the 15inch is just right.
 
I had a 17" HP and loved it. Only reason I didn't get the 17" MBP is because I want to wait for the new ones that come out next year before I shell out a ton of cash for one. I'm just hoping it fits in my backpack.
 
Another thread on size issues...I love my 17" MBP. I originally had the 13", then moved to a 15". Both were too small for me. I like the high resolution and large screen of the 17". It fits perfectly in my SwissGear ScanSmart back pack. I'm looking forward to seeing the new 17" MBA that is coming out.
 
MovieCutter said:
Guess it depends on how big YOU are. I'm 6' 3" and my 17" is perfect for the editing I do with it.
Click to expand...

That's what she said. Had to LOL at this.

Seriously though, that's what is so great about having a diverse product, different strokes for different folks.
 
315 believes it is too BIG?

Well, I can't believe that the 17" MBP is accused of being too big.

My question for people who believe it is TOo big, define what do you mean by saying it is too big?? :confused:

I carried my MBP17" when I had business in Germany & Spain and I never complained about it's size nor its weight.

However, I must admit that 17" is a desktop replacement, but it never replaces my Mac Pro :D.

That's my opinion as a current user of 17" MBP.
 
Last edited:
I was using a 1680x1050 screen on an '08 iMac today... never again. If I get a MBP there's no way I'm getting anything but the 17 (or a 15 if they upgrade the screen)
 
AppleFanatic10 said:
Just because someone doesn't want a huge laptop doesn't mean that they're poor. It's all about personal preference. ;)
Click to expand...

Well said! Just because a person doesn't by the biggest size available, doesn't mean they are poor.

When I was deciding to by my MacBook back in March I went with the 13" MacBook Pro. Not because it was cheaper, but it was the best choice for me and my needs.

I had a 2010 15" Windows laptop and was content with getting the 15" or 17" MacBook Pro. One of the big complaints I had with the Windows machine was that it was big and bulky. I originally was thinking of getting either the 15" or 17" MacBooks using the argument that I didn't want anything smaller than the laptop I was using. After checking out all three sizes at the Apple Store, including actually picking them up in a closed position, and seeing what types of cases were available I went with the 13" MacBook Pro.

I am more than happy with the 13" MacBook Pro. It's very easy to carry around and not that heavy. I don't feel like I lost any significant screen real estate. The smaller size makes it easier to carry around and the machine does everything I need it to do without any issues.
 
Bobby Corwen said:
This thread makes me fume at the nostrils.

Everyone who voted that its too big is secretly poor.
Click to expand...

Umm, no.

I opted for the 13" MBP (had owned a 15" MBP previously) because I did not want an ungainly large laptop. When I travel size matters and when I'm home, I have an external monitor. For many people choosing a 13 or 15" MBP, price is not always the deciding factor, but rather which computer best fits their needs.
 
How are the 15" and 17" on your actual lap (in bed, etc). Are they too heavy?

I use a 13" fine at the moment, but likely upgrading to the 15" tomorrow.
 
...

Its probably too big but its definitely too expensive. I know it is a quality product but you can buy a 17" windows pc for like $2000 less lol
 
DoctorOwl said:
How are the 15" and 17" on your actual lap (in bed, etc). Are they too heavy?

I use a 13" fine at the moment, but likely upgrading to the 15" tomorrow.
Click to expand...

I cannot answer for the 17" but the 15" was fine in my lap. I initially purchased a 15" MBP because at that time the 15" display panels were superior and I wanted a better GPU. After using it for some time, I found I did not need a discreet GPU and the smaller form factor fit my needs better.

what I notice when I travel with those who use a 17" laptop is how ungainly large, especially trying to use them on airplanes.
 
bluehaze013 said:
It's not too big if you keep it at home, if you carry it with you alot the difference between 15" and 17" is huge literally. 15" is perfect for people on the go that use the laptop alot, 13" is a bit too cramped and 17" is a bit too large. I've used them all and always found I left the 17" home more often than not always took the 13" with me but felt really limited so finally gave in and bought a 15" and i'm fairly certain I will never be going back to 13" or 17" again, take the 15" with me to work every day and barely notice the extra size/weight in my bag, and I love it to death, it is perfect for me :)
Click to expand...

No way! 17" is just fine to carry around. My bag is not too much bigger than the machine itself, just thicker for a few books, PSU and things.

I carry it every day (ok it comes in the car) between mine, my girlfriends and work.

Used to use a 15" IBM T42p. Can't say I find carrying the 17" MBP any more of a chore.

----------
DoctorOwl said:
How are the 15" and 17" on your actual lap (in bed, etc). Are they too heavy?

I use a 13" fine at the moment, but likely upgrading to the 15" tomorrow.
Click to expand...

It's fine, use it for hours like this.
 
Yuck I hate 17". I think 15" is kinda big too. I cant wait to get my 13" here shortly. I am currently using a 12.1" pc and love it! Hopefully the 13" doesnt seem too big ;)
 
Like I have said in previous threads, the idea that it is too big is just grand misconception for the following reasons:

1) Most people don't have one or know anyone that has one.

2) Most people don't realize that that 15 and the 17 are pretty much the same size and if you put a 15 on top of a 17 the difference on the edges is insignificant.

3) The 17 is the smallest 17 there generally is and is itself very thin and should not be described as hard to carry on any level.

4) People ignore the advantages such as native 1080p videos, better cooling, bigger screen, extra USB port and overall prestige.

5) People make the 15 out to be the sweet spot because they think one is too big, one is too small, one is juuust right in the middle. But thats not the case. Anything less than the 17 is a concession usually due to money and we don't live in a fairytale world.
 
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