iMac vs MacBook Pro

[JosephDuffy]

Hi,
I'm going to be getting a new Mac some time between now and next September for University. I was looking between and iMac for bang-for-buck, and a MacBook Pro for the ease of use of a laptop. I'm going to be doing Software Engineering in University, with good facilities, enough that I shouldn't need a laptop.
Obviously the MacBook Pros have just updated, so it would be a good time to buy one, especially since they probably won't update until after I start next year.
However, I could maybe get an iMac. This is currently my preferred choice.
For this, should I grab something in the Black Friday sale (if it's a good deal), or wait for the refresh?
Looking forward to any opinions, I just can't make my mind up!

 

[maflynn]

It really comes down to the point of needing portability. If you don't think you need to use the laptop in classes, then get the iMac. I find that the MBP provides a lot of utility and flexibility and my usual recommendation is to go with that.

 

[Vantage Point]

It really comes down to the point of needing portability

Exactly!!!!

A MBP and an external monitor is the dynamic duo. Last year I had a 27" iMac and 13" MBP and sold both for a 15" MBP and a wonderful, wide gamut, non-glossy external monitor with zero regrets. The current base model 15" MBP's have geek scores around 10,000 which kept up with iMacs but iMacs a fixed to a desk so you might need to get a portable as well hence killing the value of a iMac. Since the latest refresh is 2x more powerful than my 2010 I may upgrade on Black Friday if there is a great deal - I like Amazon as my preferred vendor - best prices and no tax in my state (I know you are in GB). Also, the 2011 MBP's can take up to 16GB ram which is a nice option if you need it and when the price for 8gb sticks fall further next year

It is personal preference but the key factor is portability - either you have it or you don't.