Which Mac?

[nido24]

Alright, I need a new computer. I've decided I'm moving to mac. So, I've decided it's coming down to the Mac Mini, the Macbook, and the Macbook Pro. (Just to clarify, I won't be getting this for a few months.) I was going with the Mac mini until I realized how much I would have to pay for the monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc. and I realized that maybe I should go with the MB or MBP. If I got a MB or a MBP, they would be the cheapest models. Considering all this, what is the best computer for my needs. I need to browse the web, edit 1080p video in iMovie, and use iPhoto. I also like the laptops because of the portability but that isn't a deciding factor because I have a W7 laptop.

Mac Mini Pros:
Cheaper than other choices (even with monitor, keyboard,etc.)
Small
Easy upgradibility

Cons:
Gotta pay for the monitor, keyboard, etc.
not portable (not a dealbreaker by any means.)

MacBook:
Not much more than Mac Mini
Portable
Less than MBP
I like the design

Cons:
Not as aesthetically pleasing as the MBP or Mac Mini
Not as much Ram

MacBook Pro:
Best design (in my opinion)
Portable
Great keyboard

Thank you!

 

[Bear]

The Mac Mini and and the MacBook are pretty much the same system. Just in a different form.

The base MacBook Pro will be noticeably faster due to the processor, memory and graphics. Also, it will most likely last one major OS upgrade more than the others due to the processor.

Now some people are saying there will be a Mini update soon - that might change this answer. But right now, go with the MacBook Pro.

 

[darknite38]

Get the refurbished baseline macbook pro, for $1029 I believe. If refurbished isn't your thing you will be happy with the baseline macbook pro, new, for $1199. It is a great computer that definitely outspecs the mac mini and the macbook, and it will last you for many years. You can also sell your W7 laptop for a few hundred to offset some of the cost.

 

[macman312]

2011 macbook pro- macbook is due for a upgrade with thunderbolt etc

 

[chrismacguy]

Definitely get the MacBook Pro - The CPU speed will be invaluable when it comes to rendering and exporting your videos - even if it only shaves a few minutes, it all adds up over time very fast.

 

[Goohfy]

Base model MBP 13" ?

 

[Internal Fury]

Base model MBP 13" ?

just bought it and love it

 

[DeChrii]

if those 3 are your main choices, then definitely get the macbook pro lower end. Although why not an iMac if you already chose the route for a desktop (macmini)? Baseline model for the imac is even better at quad cores instead of duo on the mbp. Also you get better graphics for your video editing. Now i believe iMovie currently only supports 720p export? Might have changed but thats what I remember from 2 years ago.

 

[trip1ex]

Edit 1080p video? Only choice right now is MBP.