MacBook Pro or wait for the updated MacBook?

[OndineUSA]

I currently have a 15" late 2011 MacBook Pro and a 21.5" mid 2010 iMac. I'm looking to replace the laptop as it is getting pretty sluggish. Current use is light photo editing, video editing, creation of practice plans using Sport Session Planner (saved as pdfs for distribution), e-mail, iCal, internet, Word and Excel.

While I like having a desktop and a laptop, I'm considering a laptop with an external monitor and external hard drive to replace the current desktop and laptop. If i go this route, any recommendations for which laptop- the MacBook Pro or wait for the updated MacBook? Also, any recommendations for monitors?

TIA

 

[Bart Kela]

While I've only played with the MacBook in an Apple Store, I must say that I despise its keyboard. I've also tried the new MacBook Pros and I despise those keyboards a little less, but they aren't ideal.

I doubt if the keyboard will be different on a refreshed MacBook. Apple generally sticks with the same main physical components for the life of a given product design, the main differences tend to be auxiliary systems and silicon.

That said, since your plans include using an external monitor and drive, I suppose it's not too much more to find an decent external keyboard.

You have two functional computers and there doesn't seem to be any urgency in your purchase decision. The prudent action would be to wait, maybe until you need to buy something rather than want.

 

[oldtime]

Always good to wait as long as you reasonably can.

 

[maflynn]

If i go this route, any recommendations for which laptop- the MacBook Pro or wait for the updated MacBook?

If you're considering a desktop replacement, then I'd cross the MacBook off the list, I think overall its just too underpowered. It's a beautiful device but I think its strengths and weaknesses don't align itself to be a good candidate for you.

I'd opt for the 13 or 15" MBP. The advantages of the MBP will be better GPU, quad core processor, larger display (when you're not hooked up to an external monitor) and more memory.

 

[Fishrrman]

OP:

Have you considered putting an SSD into the MBPro you now have?
It's cheap and easy, and you'll be astonished at the performance boost you realize.

Go to ifixit.com to see what's involved.
It's a 15-minute job if you use THE RIGHT TOOLS (Phillips #00 and TORX T-6).

Get an external USB3 enclosure for the old drive.

Could easily give you another year or two, until the new-design MBPro's ... "mature", so to speak.