Difference between 128mb & 256mb MBPs

Since I am considering getting an MBP, I was pondering here which version to get as what comes to best value for money (see I am using my own money to buy one ; the lowend C2D 2.2ghz with 128mb gpu or the 2.4ghz with 256mb gpu (15inch)?

Thank you everyone in advance for any help!

Cheers,

 

The 128MB card (I think) has a lower memory bandwidth. If true, then it will negatively impact gaming performance. If you don't game, then it really does not matter.

 

Have you read this article?
http://www.barefeats.com/rosa03.html

 

Hmm... Interesting... Have you seen anywhere else similar comparisons?

 

From that article it would seem as if the 10% gain in performance does not justify the $500 difference between the two 15.4-inch MBP's. If the price difference was, say, $200, then that would be a better value instantly.

Personally, I would have gone for the higher end 15.4 inch if the gain was more around 25%.

 

It's actually closer to 5% difference (averaged) and that corresponds to the CPU clock speed. Like all computers there is a premium for the top of the line components. A good chunk on the cost difference is a premium Intel places on the 2.4 GHz C2D.

Honestly, I just switched from a 2.4 GHz MBP to a 2.16 GHz MB and I don't see any performance difference. Of course I did upgrade the HDD and max out the memory. For those out there that play games or stress their machines pretty hard then every last bit of performance helps.

 

FANTASTIC ARTICLE, so far I've been contemplating day in and out to posibly switch it up to the 256 Mb video card. After seeing the performance meters I'm dead set the 128 Mb for the price I paid is awesome! Thanks Dreamer

 

keep in mind those tests were done in os x. if you are going to be gaming in windows, you will see a *very* different picture.

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=130879

 

Honestly, I'd go with the 256MB graphics card, especially if you're a power user. I myself need the extra power, especially if I want this machine to last 3 to 4 years comfortably.

When I bought an Inspiron 8600c laptop in 2004, the graphics cards available for it came with either 32MB, 64MB, or 128MB. Similar to todays standards of 128MB, 256MB, and 512MB. Honestly, if I still used that laptop today 32MB is pitiful. In a year or two, 128MB will be pitiful and you'll regret your decision.

However, if you don't need the extra power, than 128MB will suffice until your next purchase. Just remember you're getting the small cup, not the large or bladder buster and who knows how long it'll take to cross the desert to reach your next PC.

 

Thank you all very much for all of your help, you really made my life a lot easier as I no longer have to stress about choosing the right gpu&cpu on MBP as the choice seems obvious now; the 256mb&2.4ghz D Appreciate it greatly

Cheers,

 

FANTASTIC ARTICLE= DOES NOT TELL THE WHOLE STORY
as a PC convert (for now) more is better.... PERIOD

 

yes, more is better, but, then you have to factor in the price, and then, more may not be worth it...

I don't game, I do a lot of graphics, I'm having no issues with my 128MB X1600 doing the job while always driving an external 17" LCD.

 

Well more power is better, but that cost for the overall 5% performance isn't quite worth it to myself... Not to mention that machine already performs more then I require it to by a long shot. I'm comfortable with my decision. I stated it's merely a fantastic article do to the point that I'm really waves ahead of what I thought initially

 

well, i don't really know about all the technical stuff, but I play oblivion on my 128 mbp and it runs absolutely amazing