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    Buying a macbook this weekend - picking out a model, need help

    Discussion in 'Apple and Mac OS X' started by Helpmyfriend, Apr 9, 2009.

  1. Helpmyfriend

    Helpmyfriend Notebook Evangelist

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    Im just trying to figure out the differences between these 2 models, (from what I see its just the dedicated video), and the extra 40GB HD and the 3GB system bus vs 1066 on the first link. I was also told the more expensive one is a newer gen model with better screen?

    Dont forget, this is in cdn $. Are they good deals? Which is the better buy?

    http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10119137&catid=

    http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10111215&catid=

    Im leaning towards the first, since both look to have the same amount of RAM (2GB is all I need), and 120GB HD is enough. But the one in the second link has the black frame around the screen, I was told is better and newer?

    Im just using it for web browsing, photoshop, email, NO games!
     
    Helpmyfriend, Apr 9, 2009
    #1
  2. qhn

    qhn Notebook User

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    The 2nd one does have a led-backlit display. But I am still happy with my very first generation of the macbook

    cheers ...
     
    qhn, Apr 9, 2009
    #2
  3. Xirurg

    Xirurg ORLY???

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    well,they have nearly same hardware,but are built from different material-one from polycarbonate,2nd from aluminum,thus it has better built quality and is lighter.

    couple of + for alu one-
    Better LED screen
    DDR3 memory=a little better performance
    multi touch glass tackpad
    a bit better battery

    I ll suggest you to see them in person before making final decision.
     
    Xirurg, Apr 9, 2009
    #3
  4. pacmandelight

    pacmandelight Notebook Deity

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    The only big difference is the 2nd unit has aluminum body and LED backlit display. The 1st unit is made out some type of plastic. Both units have glossy screens so determine if you are okay with reflections.
     
    pacmandelight, Apr 9, 2009
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  5. bridge86

    bridge86 Notebook Consultant

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    If you want the alu macbook at a price closer to that of the plastic macbook you may want to have a look at the mac refurb store.

    http://store.apple.com/ca/product/FB466LL/A?mco=MjE0NDk5Mw

    They have the alu macbook for $1199 and they have the same warranty and service as your regular macbooks.
     
    bridge86, Apr 9, 2009
    #5
  6. Khris

    Khris Yes I am better than you!

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    And as Xirurg pointed out:
    DDR3 memory=a little better performance
    multi touch glass tackpad
     
    Khris, Apr 9, 2009
    #6
  7. Luke1708

    Luke1708 Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Personally, i'd go with the 2nd one because it's more durable and resistant.
     
    Luke1708, Apr 9, 2009
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  8. Helpmyfriend

    Helpmyfriend Notebook Evangelist

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    Ok thanks everyone.

    1) How is LED backlight screen better than a reg. LCD backlight screen?
    2) So im guessing the 2nd link one has the newer gen screen technology?
    3) How much more durable/solid does the aluminum housing feel? Is it the same material used on MBP's?

    Ill go and take a look in person, but if its the same aluminum and material used in the MBPs id be willing to shell out the extra $250 for the 2nd model.
     
    Helpmyfriend, Apr 9, 2009
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  9. Xirurg

    Xirurg ORLY???

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    yes,it is the same aluminum as in mbp and 2nd one has better screen!btw,apple's refurbished notebooks are ~ new but w/o fancy box.
     
    Xirurg, Apr 9, 2009
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  10. Seshan

    Seshan Rawrrr!

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    Go for the second one, Don't buy Futureshops extended warranty BUY APPLE CARE.
     
    Seshan, Apr 9, 2009
    #10
  11. CanadianDude

    CanadianDude Notebook Deity

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    I remmeber when the first new MBP came out in 2006, the boxes themselves were selling for 60-70 bucks on ebay.
     
    CanadianDude, Apr 9, 2009
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  12. Lyanowu

    Lyanowu Notebook Consultant

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    Why did they sell boxes??? :confused:
     
    Lyanowu, Apr 10, 2009
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  13. Luke1708

    Luke1708 Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    Many people throw away their boxes when they receive their laptops. so when they want to sell it, the price of their laptops decreases because there is no box.
     
    Luke1708, Apr 10, 2009
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  14. Khris

    Khris Yes I am better than you!

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    I've still got the box for my Black MacBook 2.4 if anyone wants to buy it! LOL
     
    Khris, Apr 10, 2009
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