1.83 vs 2.0

I'm in the market for a new macbook and I was all set to just get the 1.83 c2d base model over the 2.0 middle model because a dvd burner and a difference of .2ghz does not really matter to me. (The ram isn't that important since I'm going to upgrade to 2gb) However I just noticed that the 1.83 c2d only has a 2mb L2 cache whereas the 2.0 c2d has a 4mb L2 cache. Is the difference between the two noticeable or will it go almost unnoticed?

 

Depends, what will you be using your macbook for? If converting video/audio, then yes it will make a noticable difference. If just watching dvd's, writing papers, etc.. then not really.
The +2mb L2 cache will affect mainly encoding/decoding, AI type of processes that some people do while playing video games, video/audio editing.

 

Thanks for the response. It probably won't make that much of a difference to me. But I was actually also thinking "long term" sort of since I'm may plan on selling it once the next wave of macbooks hits at the end of the year. Which would be the better pick to minimize my losses towards the end of the year. A brand new 2.0 c2d macbook for $1100 or a new/like new 1.83 c2d macbook for about $850-$900.

 

even long term there won't be much of a difference. It's mainly going to be your video card in the long term and they are the same in them.

 

There's not going to be a huge difference for general use. You'll be fine either way IMO. If you don't need a DVD burner, then just go with the 1.83.

 

Consider getting your MacBook refurb to save cash if you haven't already.

 

how much do the refurb models usually go for and how often are they available? Do they have refurbs in the apple store? Thanks

 

I found two or three for 800 buck and yes they have them on apple. Check ebay also you might find a good refurb there.

 

did you see them for $800 at the apple store? I just checked the online apple store and it's showing $950, 14% off of retail. Does it vary from time to time or is it cheaper at the store?

 

In this case, I would spring for the 2.0 if you can afford it. The extra cache will help a fair amount. If money is an issue the 1.83 will be a great machine, but I would shoot for the 2.0, perhaps a refurb to save some cash.

 

Thanks for the responses. Now I'm leaning towards purchasing the middle model 2.0 c2d from my school for $999 so about $1100 after tax and just selling the ram. Does anybody know when/what the macbook is going to get a refresh. Also around how much do you guys think I'd be able to get for this in about 5-6 months? Thanks

 

Apple machines tend to age pretty well. I mean I've seen some 12" ibooks going close to $1000 on ebay. So you should be pretty safe about selling it for a decent price later on. (I think)