MacBook purchase advice

[willowpez]

Hello,

I'm a college student seriously considering making the jump to a Mac. I've decided on a MacBook, but I have a few options that I'm having trouble deciding between:

1) New, White, mid-level MacBook (2.16Ghz, etc) for $1199 + free iPod ($249-199, as I'd get the 30gb iPod). = $1364 after tax and rebate.

2) Refurb, Black, MacBook (2.0Ghz, 1GB, 120gb, SuperDrive) = $1049 + tax = $1133.

3) Option #2 + new iPod (around $220 from Amazon to save on tax) = $1353

Some qualifications: I think I prefer black over white, but it's not a big deal, I have an old iPod (3G) that still works, I would enjoy the unboxing process, and budget is crucial.

Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[Igantius]

If budget is crucial, go for the cheapest one - plus, you've got an iPod and prefer the black.

 

[Scarlet Fever]

i'd go with the black one. It's got more stuff that Opt. 1, and you can use the saved money to buy an iPod if you feel so inclined.

 

[Edandlindz28]

Go refurb on both. 179 for a 30GB iPod. Total cost would be 1326.

 

[Demon Hunter]

Go refurb on both. 179 for a 30GB iPod. Total cost would be 1326.

If he does that he won't be taking advantage of the iPod deal for students.

I'd go with option #1.

 

[Dynamyk]

Get the refurb blackbook. Get a refurbed iPod too, it'll still be cheaper than the student deal.