Macbook 2.0GHz vs. 2.4GHz

I got my macbook (aluminum) 2.0GHz about a week and half ago. I'm quite satisfied with my machine so far, but I feel like I'm missing out something in 2.0GHz when compared to 2.4GHz. Obviously lack of LED backlit keyboard is one major factor, but I do feel that the HDD space (160Gb) is also a bit too small. I haven't used any C2D processor faster than 2.0GHz, so I can't tell the difference on that regard.

Question is, how is 2.4GHz model compared to 2.0GHz one? Do you think it's worth $250 price difference (I'm under student discount)?

 

I think $250 is a bit much unless you really want/need the higher speed. You will see some difference between .4Ghz.

 

well it really depends on your usage I guess, if you feel the current performance is adequate then theres no need for an upgrade, if its more HDD space your craving just buy yourself a new one for some cheapo price.

 

Ya, but the backlit keyboard is so neat!

 

I have the 2.0GHz model. As a student I didn't see the need for a 2.4GHz processor as I'm just using word, powerpoint and browsing the internet. Yes, the back lit keyboard is a nice feature but realistically speaking, I personally would never have a use for it because:

1. I don't work in a dark environment where I would need a back lit keyboard
2. I rarely look at the keyboard anyways when I type

And as mentioned above, you could replace the hard drive yourself

 

If you're just using it for word and web browsing with some light photoshop, then you don't need the 2.4Ghz. If you're a gamer, then that's a totally different ball park.

 

I agree totally with the decision to go with the 2.0ghz because of the minor differences between them as PredatoR stated.

 

Oh, but the backlit keyboard is just so pretty!

 

Good point there, RogueMonk!

 

I think Apple should've made the back-lit an option instead of having these "tier" prices like how car dealers only offer certain amenities on the high end package.

 

Even if you're a gamer, it wont make much difference. I copied a jpg image to my desktop of some recent benchmarks that were ran, but I can't remember what website it's from.
I'll post it here. The games ran were Doom3, Quake 4, UT 2k4 and COD4.
Oh sorry forgot to mention these are the new aluminum macbooks (just in case anyone missed that ).

Doom3 (1280x800):
2.4ghz 35.2 fps
2.0ghz 34.3 fps.

Quake 4 (1280x800):
2.4ghz 32.3 fps
2.0ghz 31.9 fps.

UT 2k4 (1024x768):
2.4ghz 64.8 fps
2.0ghz 60.0 fps

COD 4 (1280x800):
2.4ghz 28.4 fps
2.0ghz 27.9 fps

 

Backlit keyboard is a total waste of money. I liked it too when I first saw it but I am a touch typer. If you need a backlit keyboard might as well try to improve your typing instead.

 

Any recommedations on how to do that?

 

I agree that going for the higher end MacBook just for the backlit keyboard is quite a price to pay; if someone wants to do that, by all means go ahead, but of course I hope there's more than just the backlit keyboard being that incentive.

I'm also a touch typer, so I don't really need the backlit keyboard. Doesn't hurt to have, of course, but I don't look at the keys anyway.

 

Type in the dark. It really helps.

 

:laugh:

(10 characters)

 

Just to comment on the backlit keyboard:

I never thought I'd use it. I always thought it was one of those "LOL YOU PAID EXTRA" gimmicks.

But recently, it's been invaluable to me. I'm a touch typist as well, and I never look down at my keyboard; even to raise the volume, change the song, or anything. But I've found myself in "darker" situations that I previously anticapted, and the backlight is a godsend. Just for kicks, I turn the backlight off and then I truly appreciate it.

But yeah, if that's your only reason for getting 2.4 over 2.0, I'd say reconsider the 2.0. Unless you've got money to blow, in which case, go for the 2.4.

 

Yes, get a backlit keyboard and look at your fingers while you type.

 

When I was younger (well, I'm still young...), the school computers had "All The Right Type". That's what we basically used to train ourselves. Granted, most of my friends are still half-touch-typists, but I got to be full-touch-typist.

 

That, and force yourself to keep all but a few fingers on the keyboard while you type.

Also it is not as if there is not light whatsoever. I frequently find that the LCD's backlight is more than enough to illuminate the keyboard.

 

Hes actually got a very good point - thats how I learned to touch type.

 

Home row FTW!!

 

The $14 super solution, which will save you $286,0