MacBook Conundrum
August 1st, 2008 Posted in Apple/iPod
So, I have to get a new MacBook. But what to do, what to do?
Do I simply buy a new MB, and take advantage of the free iPod Touch (8GB) promotion? Or do I pony up for a MB Pro?
Or, should I wait for the new MBs coming out in a few months that are rumoured to be more curvy and come with a fancy-dancy trackpad?
Decisions, decisions!
As much as the idea of a free Touch is appealing, it’s hard not to get the feeling that Apple is just trying to blow out its MB inventory for the new and improved models.
And with tougher economic times on the near horizon, perhaps Apple might have to do something un-Apple-like, and sharpen its pricing to spur sales.
Any advice?
August 1st, 2008 at 2:55 pm
This is a tricky time to buy… I’ve got to assume there’ll either be news in Sept or Jan for new MB’s…
Personally I think the ~$1299 white macbook is the best bang for your buck. MB Pro is a little big in my eyes, and unless you want the screen real estate, there’s little other reason for it (since you aren’t the pro video editor AFAIK).
The other reason for the basic white unit is they tend to hold resale value because of the high demand with college kids, which won’t be heavily impacted with a new line.
August 1st, 2008 at 3:50 pm
You know, I’m having the same issue, but with me, I haven’t made up my mind to keep using a laptop.
There is deal at my university for the previous gen 24″ iMac with a 3 year Applecare warranty for 1400, with a free printer. The iPod thing doesn’t apply, but that’s still a ridiculously low price (of course, it’s the lower FSB).
OR
Do I pony up for the 24″ iMac, and sell the printer (free) and the iPod Touch (also free) to offset the price.
OR
Just like you, do I wait and see about this new Mac Book (or even Pro) with the rumored glass touchpads and blah blah blah.
Yeah, decisions. I haven’t helped you at all. Heh.
August 1st, 2008 at 4:08 pm
Wait until September and see what the options are. You’d be gutted if you bought a soon-to-be-old MacBook only for a same priced newer model to come out.
August 1st, 2008 at 4:27 pm
I would definitely wait. chances are you’ll get a Touch for your birthday, christmas or from someone who just got an iPhone (I’m giving mine to my kids).
August 1st, 2008 at 4:44 pm
I’d wait. The current MacBooks are getting dated, and the case design is not great.
August 1st, 2008 at 4:52 pm
In the same boat right now as well. Looking into a new computer before classes start and the Student promo is nice, I’m looking into a he base model MacBook Pro (need the graphics) and I’m pretty deadest on purchasing one this coming week or next week, but should I wait for the later models? The aesthetic appearance of the notebook isn’t too much of an issue, its the specs that make me wonder. I’m well-aware the montevina chipset isn’t the largest difference when it comes to processing power, but the possible graphics options make me drool.. there are rumors flying around that these might include the Nvidia GeForce 9700M GT which is essentially a 8800M GT but on the smaller and more efficient (cooler) 65nm tech. Not to mention the possible 15.4inch 1680×1050 high-res screen option. A 17inch version is just too large for me to carry around..
August 1st, 2008 at 6:22 pm
This is going to sound funny, but I’d skip the Macbook’s altogether due to quality issues (3 of the guys on my team have them and we’ve had endless problems. I do have to admit that it was nice to get a free upgrade to a new Macbook when one of ours tanked, but it would have been nice if it didn’t tank in the first place).
I’ve always been a Thinkpad fan and after my first Macbook in December, I’m going back to Thinkpads.
August 1st, 2008 at 6:54 pm
If you need it you need it. Go for it. (If you don’t need the 8GB touch - I’ll be more than happy to take it off your hands
Things are always going to be updated and there will always be something there 3 months or 6 months down the line.
I bought a Macbook 3 months ago - and the only issue i have is that the left side gets really hot (hot enough to not keep on my lap).
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:48 am
You can take advantage of the ‘free’ ipod promotion no matter whether you get a macbook or a macbookpro. It’s a deal offered to students at this time of year. I was just at the Eaton Center Apple Store and confirmed this. And you can choose any ipod or an ipod touch. However, you have to pay upfront for whichever ipod you pick, and wait for a rebate. On the other hand, you’ll also save on the laptop itself. I’m eyeing the 15″ pro, and they said I’d get 200 off. That alone will pay for the AppleCare package.
August 2nd, 2008 at 1:52 am
Of course, you’ll need to, um, locate a student to take with you…
August 2nd, 2008 at 7:12 pm
get an mb air then craigslist it when the new pros come out