Refurb (2.13 GHz C2D/320M) versus New (1.7 GHz i5/Intel HD 3000)?

[justaregularjoe]

How would these systems compare? The refurb model is currently in the Canadian Refurb store for 1349.99, and the new model is the base 13" for 1299.99.

Would the speed increase make up for the older chip?
Also, the 320M outperforms the Intel HD 3000 chip, right?

 

[Risasi]

I will take the 2011 model every time. But that's only because I consider the HD 3000 a comparable GPU. Do you play games at all? If so then you might want to look into the Nvidia card.


Aside from that other issues; slightly worse battery life from the 2011 model, also no backlight on the 2010 model. Am I missing anything else, guys?

 

[newdeal]

...

resale value will be better on the 2011 imo.

 

[justaregularjoe]

Gaming? Rarely, and when I do, it's 90% on my xbox.

Backlit keyboard: GOOD POINT. Forgot that that is not a feature on the 2010's.

Good call on the resell point. Oh, and Thunderbolt, duh! I forgot about that.

Thanks, guys!