Uni student, considering a new macbook. Help please!

Lforgivensinner on 13/03/2015 - 12:19
Last edited 13/03/2015 - 12:41

Hi guys,

I am currently a 3rd year uni student using a macbook pro (2012). However i would like to upgrade to a new macbook and i'm having serious doubts about the new macbook line. Should i consider the new macbook with the slim design and usb-c (not keen on just 1 adapter) or should i get a refurbished macbook air/pro from the apple store for $1200 or $1550 respectively. The 2015 line of MBA and MBPr is no different (well not noticeable to the average user) and probably cannot justify the hike in price …

http://store.apple.com/au/product/GD761X/B/refurbished-macbo…

OR

http://store.apple.com/au/product/FGX82X/A/refurbished-133-i…

I want something light and knowing the new macbook is 900g that's perfect. However is it worth the price tag? I can get 10% off at David jones/Apple or Dick smith as i know people that work there.

Please share your thoughts.

Computing

Comments

  • ProjectZero on 13/03/2015 - 13:01

    Most people would probably recommend a windows laptop if you only need it for microsoft office. Would that be an option or are you dead set on getting a macbook?

    As I said, if you only need it for MS office, then you can probably buy a $500-$800 laptop and it will be more than enough for simple tasks. Better yet, if you are really set on spending $1200, I think a Surface Pro 2 or 3 would be a better option.

    • forgivensinner on 13/03/2015 - 13:46

      Hmmmm i've invested a lot into the Apple ecosystem. However i'm open to the likes of Dell XPS13? But i would prefer a macbook.

  • DrStinge on 13/03/2015 - 13:19
    +1

    Is there anything particularly wrong with your 2012 model?

    Upgrading to a newer refurbished seems costly. I would personality wait out your uni years with the current model - it's not that far behind the eight ball.

    As Zero said, a Windows laptop is generally much better value. Also take note - the new Macbook uses a quite low voltage processor, your current model may be on par in terms of power.

    • forgivensinner on 13/03/2015 - 13:47

      Hmmm there is nothing wrong, but my brother wants my laptop and also it's heavy. Around 2.2KG? Yeah i dont need that much power, something light and portable. Is the new macbook worth it or is the air better?

      • DrStinge on 13/03/2015 - 17:07

        The Air is currently better in terms of usability (multiple ports and output), and starts off with a Core i5 processor. The downside is the low resolution (they're not even 1080P).

        If you can go down the Windows camp I would go for a Dell XPS 13 off the Dell Factory outlet. There's some great Lenovo deals going around too.

        I personally use an early 2014 XPS 13 because it's a touchscreen 1080P carbon fiber laptop with 9 hour battery for under $1200.

  • mrmarkau67 on 13/03/2015 - 14:14

    Only you can tell us if the compromises of the new Macbook (ports and cost) are worth the benefits (beautiful screen in a very slim and light package). Its a personal thing.

    Visit a store and try it out. Otherwise go for the Air. Generally great machine, good value.

  • watwatwat on 13/03/2015 - 17:33

    Go the new macbook.

  • TheAccountant on 13/03/2015 - 18:28

    If you're not too keen on a Macbook, check out the XPS 13.

  • modsec802 on 13/03/2015 - 19:39
    +2

    The story about how the new MacBook came about: http://youtu.be/KHZ8ek-6ccc

    • PVA on 18/03/2015 - 23:25

      fantastic!

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