Macbook 17 v retina 13 or 15

[faffing]

Hi,

So I am torn. Having waited for the retina 13 I am now unsure as to the cost. I dont have to move my computer too often from home and so portability isnt completely key.

I have found a 17" early 2011 new for $1740 inc tax
a retina 15 for $1930
and am waiting to see what my school will offer the 13" for (presuming $1550ish)

Would anyone have any recommendations? I work with photos a bit and am tempted by the larger screens so as to avoid the potential need for a monitor but not sure how the 17" would shape up in comparison to the retinas in regards to screen quality and speed.

Tks

 

[taylord22]

Hi,

So I am torn. Having waited for the retina 13 I am now unsure as to the cost. I dont have to move my computer too often from home and so portability isnt completely key.

I have found a 17" early 2011 new for $1740 inc tax
a retina 15 for $1930
and am waiting to see what my school will offer the 13" for (presuming $1550ish)

Would anyone have any recommendations? I work with photos a bit and am tempted by the larger screens so as to avoid the potential need for a monitor but not sure how the 17" would shape up in comparison to the retinas in regards to screen quality and speed.

Tks

I wouldn't even consider the 13" an option if bang for buck is something important to you.

Personally, I would go with the Retina. Aside from the spec upgrades, the external display/workspace options are greater, you've future proofed yourself, and if you did need to go portable, the 15" is much more conducive to that.

As to the screens, the 17" is a nice screen with a ton of workspace, but it doesn't stack up to the retina.