Sidebar Sidebar
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

New MacBook vs Toshiba Satellite 13.3 Widescreen Notebook (U305-S5107)

N

nyiggy

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Aug 8, 2007
2
0
I am currently a windows user, considering the switch to apple, and am in need of a new laptop, and was hoping there would be an announcement yesterday about an update of the MBs, but no such luck. So now I'm comparing two laptops, and am curious about any feedback you guys might have. The new Toshiba Satellite 13.3 Widescreen Notebook (U305-S5107) has nearly identical specs to the MB (Intel Core Duo, 160 GB Harddrive, 2 GB of RAM, DVD Burner, built in webcam, etc.), and the kind of additional features I'm most interested in: Bluetooth 2.0, a/g/n wireless, and a media card reader (which the MB does not). Plus, the Toshiba is only 4.6 pounds, vs. 5.1 for the MB, and the Toshiba is on sale at CC for $949.

Yes, it has Windows Vista vs. the Mac operating system, and I realize I will sacrifice some battery life. I also don't play any games on the computer, and only use it for word processing, internet, photos, primarily. However, I sure like the look of that MB....So, I'm wondering if it's worth it to shell out the extra $400 or $500 for the MB, or if I should buy the Toshiba and use that extra money to buy an iPhone.....

Any thoughts on helping me make the decision would be appreciated.
 
There are loads of these threads cropping up lately and the answer's always the same:

OSX

It really is as simple as that in my opinion. Yes, Apple charge more, but if you want OSX you have no other hassle free alternatives.

PS. buy the mac ;)
 
I spent a while deciding between MAC and PC coz of the price difference. I took a chance and jumped at it. I am glad I did :)

After nearly 3 and half weeks on the OS X, I used my Vista laptop as I had to transfer some files on its drive via VPN to a shared drive... and it was just painful all over... made me appreciate OS X so much more hehe :)

Its not the hardware IMO, its just the OS. Go for macbook - u won't regret it.
 
macbook vs. dell xps m1330

I have the same issue as well, I want to buy either a macbook or the identical dell xps m1330 , but Ive heard the rumurs about the macbook heating up, also the video card is not that high for good graphics for games. I do like mac for the easy-to-work features and the virus-free OS system. Could someone tell me which one to chose , the macbook or the dell xps m1330? thanks!!:):)
 
mowlavie said:
I have the same issue as well, I want to buy either a macbook or the identical dell xps m1330 , but Ive heard the rumurs about the macbook heating up, also the video card is not that high for good graphics for games. I do like mac for the easy-to-work features and the virus-free OS system. Could someone tell me which one to chose , the macbook or the dell xps m1330? thanks!!:):)
Click to expand...

A Macbook isn't even in the same league as the m1330.

The m1330 is a beast. It's not a fair fight.
 
spank2223 said:
Its the same specs. And the video card is an 8400 compared to the 8600. So how is it a beast
Click to expand...

What are you talking about?

With a Macbook, you're stuck with integrated graphics. The m1330 has the option to add discrete graphics with the GeForce™ 8400M GS.

You can do some real gaming on the m1330. With a Macbook, you're left out in the cold.
 
Toshiba vs Apple

There is one big difference, the CPU, it's using the T5300 which is a 1.73 GHz with 2MB of L2 cache vs a 2.00 GHZ with 4 MB of L2 cache for the MB. The difference between the 2 type of processors is significant. Now though, if I was looking for a laptop now, I may go for the U305-S5127 from Toshiba, you get a lot more bang for your money than the current MB.

And yes, I love MAC OS X but hey money vs performance is an issue for me especially since I like gaming and hence for my taste at the current price I would go for the Toshiba U305-S5127 if I had to buy today.
 
Thanks guys. I think I may go just go with the Toshiba. While I do like the Mac OS, I just can't see it's worth paying a 50% mark up for it ($949 vs. $1499), particularly for a MB that's a full half pound heavier than the Toshiba. I'll use the extra $500 to buy an iPhone or maybe a nice monitor.
 
I'm getting a macbook today. Yes I know that it is generally is more expensive than a pc with the same specs. I just can't deny the great style and design of apple..both the os and harware.
 
I got, some years ago a Toshiba Satellite P10, is a 3.8 kg beast :). But I do not regret it. Last year I finally bought a Macbook. I also do not regret it. Is a beautiful little machine. Fast, quiet, very functional. I did not wanted to pay m$ tax, because my main OS is Linux, so I just trash winblows. After a while with OSX, I am still amazed at how ugly and bad, XP is. Just clumsy, moronic :). OSX requires lees attention, does not make stupid questions, and it does not get in your way. And best of all, has all the unix commands I am used to. I'd really like a better console, though, something like an xterm :), with functional keys like PageUp and PageDown :), but works.

My next machine is also going to be an Apple. No "hasta la Vista" for me !

Toshibas are really nice machines (mine still work rock solid, and the battery still gives little more than 2 hs, like when I bought it), but it does not run OSX (but it runs Linux), sadly you have to pay m$ tax. That's too much for me :apple:
 
I'm in the same boat but I lareayd made the decision and I'm switching to apple from my parents dell computer and I'm getting a black macbook next week. Already have wireless hooked up and everything is set for my macbook. All I need is for my dad to drive me to delaware(tax free) and I get a goverment discount becuase he is state police. I would get an apple but I am already I'm going down on the 20th! I can't wait.
 
right now i would have to recommend the toshiba satellite only because i used it and its very light, i dont like the operating system but it is a very nice and compact notebook that will get things done for you.

R
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.
Top Bottom
Back