Thinking of buying a monitor for 17" MBP

[NStocks]

Hi,

So I'm studying Architecture at University and I've been using my 17" 2009 MBP since I started. As my work has become more complex/larger I feel that everything is too crammed on one screen. I was usuing my Laptop and a Uni PC yesterday at Uni and it's really nice to have one monitor for CAD and another for Illustrator/Internet/Music etc.

A few questions I have about a external monitor :

When you have two screens, is it cumbersome to keep ' moving' your head to find the other page your looking for ?

Do you loose any power when you use 2 monitors ?

Is it ergonomic to be typing on the laptop whilst the second screen isn't directly in front you you/your laptop screen ?

What's an alternative to the Apple LED screen for <£200 ( I will search the forum intensely ! )

Are there any monitors that offer similar features to the Apple LED such as the magsafe charger and USB hub ?

Thank You !

 

[kyleh613]

I can answer the first question at least. It takes a while to get use to having two monitors. It really comes down to personal preference. I personally prefer one very large monitor rather then two. When I am working though, I just ignore any other distractions or bust out the iphone and play music off that with the headphones.