cMBP is the still the best IMHO

[alex0002]

Im seeing the price of the rMBP at NZD $3,438.01 - http://i42.tinypic.com/2jc8x08.png

I see what you did there, took the base cMBP and comparing it to the high end model for the rMBP. No, take the base of BOTH models (hence the 2.4 GHZ rMBP, and select the 2.7 GHz upgrade)

Yes, but if I pick that one, can I upgrade the RAM later? I'm only interested in options where I can upgrade to 16GB RAM, so at the very least I'd have to select the 16GB RAM option for the 2.7 GHz upgrade (but keeping the SSD at 256GB), or if I wanted the larger storage, the high end model that I previously selected.

However, I understand the point you're making... if you value the display and CPU above other considerations, then the 2.7 GHz 15" retina would seem like a good basis for comparison and at that end of the retina range you're right. The price really isn't on a totally different planet from the cMBP equivalent.

I'm coming from the other end, where I've got a late 2011 model 13" cMBP and one day I'm going to need a replacement. I expect I'm going to need more than 8GB RAM sooner or later, I'm still going to need wired ethernet and perhaps just a modest bump in CPU, on my next machine.

But I'm not sure what that replacement would be other than another cMBP, but fortunately I can upgrade RAM, SSD and wait a few years to see what apple come up with.

 

[Badrottie]

You know I really love my 2007 15" MBP I wish I could keep it bit longer but when I got rMBP I really love retina display and I really love trackpad multi-gestures that 2007 MBP does not have. I like rMBP new body factor but it is little heavy to carry. I got tired of carry my 2007 MBP (that is why I bought an iPad) so I had to leave it at home and sold it. I am still carry rMBP everyday with iPad!

 

[monkeybagel]

Thanks for the feedback on the Thuderbolt -> GiE adapter. Do they hold in place well and not want to move at the wrong moment? Back in the day when we used to use laptops with 3com pcmcia ethernet adapters (google if you don't know the ones I mean), it seemed like the little cable piece was always giving problems. Either it was breaking, not holding in place properly, perhaps you would loose it when you needed it most, or in some sites, there were other engineering staff who would "borrow" things like that and forget to return them.

Most of us were very happy when notebooks with built in ethernet became the norm.

I know the 3coms you are referring to. The Thunderbolt adapter unfortunately would be similar in regards not have significant resistance when tugged on. If you are using it on a desk it will be no problem but if you are holding it your lap working behind a server rack or something, it could be an issue. The quality of it seems fine so far and it has not gotten any looser in the port.

 

[throAU]

rMBP isn't over priced.

It's just not suitable for all users.

Not everybody has the same needs.

When people compare spec, expandability, etc. they are assuming that the smaller form factor and display don't cost anything. This is not true.


if nothing else: the cMBP has had the same chassis for about 5 years now. Its development costs are well and truly paid off. The rMBP is still relatively new. Developing the chassis, board layout, all the factory tooling, etc. was not free.

 

[falconeight]

3 years from now the rMBP will still have the best screen and design. Other companies just can't meet it and still make money.

 

[CarreraGuy]

Agree with OP, my 2010 cMBP is my daily driver! 8gb ram and 500gb ssd...

Thinking of upgrading to Sea Lion soon.

I'd buy another one with new processor/graphics when I need.

I hope Apple does not retire this line!

 

[maflynn]

3 years from now the rMBP will still have the best screen and design. Other companies just can't meet it and still make money.

3 years from now, there will be better computers and the rMBP will be considered ancient. Just the nature of the business.

 

[ghoti]

Retina screen alone is worth $500 more. Everything else is gravy. Once you go retina...

Once you go retina, INDEED.

 

[falconeight]

3 years from now, there will be better computers and the rMBP will be considered ancient. Just the nature of the business.

You're correct there will be a better retina but the air and cheaper PC will still not be at retina levels.