Thinking about a MacBook

[jacob45334]

I am not new to Mac... I am starting college and was wondering what everyones opinion would be... I am debating purchasing the black MacBook with 2 gb ram upgrade. I just need a somewhat basic computer for classes but need the flexibility to run Windows thru Boot Camp.

I am not going to be doing heavy graphics editing or video production with this computer - just basic stuff: docs, email, music - basic stuff...

Do you think that this would be a good choice. $$ is kind of an issue...

 

[jakelar]

if money is a problem i'd suggest you go for the low-end white book instead of the black one. There is quite a large price gap between the two. The difference in processor speeds between the two models wont make a huge difference and in my opinion, 1gb of ram is more than enough for the stuff you do.

If you still want the black casing, the newer penryn blackbooks have a base 2gb of ram, so theres no need to upgrade.

 

[mediumofmeaning]

note the recent upgrade to the macbook means 2gb is now standard for 2/3 tier.

if money is an issue, i would not get the blackbook. there has traditionally been a "you like black, eh?" tax, if you're not aware. i would get the white one, and just upgrade the HDD if necessary (making it $100 cheaper).

thats ultimately a question you'll have to answer, though.

with 2 gigs of ram and a 2.4 ghz processor, it will definitely suit your needs, and ought to last for a couple years. purchasing at a good time, right now, also.

Edit: yo, i think we all have the name Jake! top score

 

[ktbubster]

If money is an issue check the refurb store. They have GREAT deals on macbooks and such now since the update. Since this is just for basic stuff a good 2.16 blackbook is abut 1049 in the refurb store, and ram is so cheap and easy to install you can pick up a 2 gig stick for like 35 bucks to add to one of the 512s for 2.512 total and be more then happy...

However, the whitebooks are a better deal. I actually like my whitebook better then the blackbook i had for a while. You can grab a refurb 2.2 whitebook for 999 now! Just the last gen, and better then the current bottom line.

GREAT deal, and plenty of computer I highly recommend it. I am working on one right now

 

[Abstract]

Get a refurb BlackBook, or a new white MacBook.

The higher price of the Blackbook can be offset by purchasing a refurb, which aren't as scary as they sound. They're used, but returned for some reason, fixed (if necessary), thoroughly tested, and boxed up. They're probably a safer bet than brand new systems, as those are never really tested.

 

[iJesus]

Agreed, refurbished would be the best thing.

QUICKLY! here's the link to the refurb blackbook for $1049
http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?fnode=home/specialdeals/clearance&nplm=FB063LL/B

 

[RainCityMacFan]

I did a little comparing between the 2/3 and 3/3 tier Macbook since I'm also thinking of buying a notebook for Sophomore year (HS).

Basically, you're paying 100$ extra for a Blackbook (from a 2/3 tier white) for extra hard drive space and an extra 100$ to have BLACK. You like black? Go ahead, spend that extra 100$. Except when you upgrade the Macbooks to the same spec, there is only a 100$ difference.

I did include iWork and Apple Care in the total price so results may come out different, it shouldn't though...