Decisions, Decisions
We’ve narrowed 10 computers to these 2 notebooks. We’re having a hard time deciding. Maybe ya’ll could help? :)
Apple MacBook Pro -
Processor: 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 3MB shared L2 cache
Operating System: OS X
Display Panel: 15.4-inch (viewable) widescreen LED
System graphics: NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT with 256MB of GDDR3 SDRAM
Total memory: 2GB (two SO-DIMMs)
Hard Drive: 200GB Serial ATA, 5400 rpm
Optical device: 8x double-layer SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Lenovo ThinkPad T61p -
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo processor T8300 (2.4GHz 800MHz 3MBL2)
Operating System: Genuine Windows XP Professional
Display Panel: 15.4 WSXGA+ TFT
System graphics: NVIDIA Quadro FX 570M (256MB Open GL)
Total memory: 2 GB PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM 667MHz SODIMM Memory (2 DIMM)
Hard Drive: 250GB Hard Disk Drive, 5400rpm
Optical device: DVD Recordable 8x Max Dual Layer, Ultrabay Slim
Here’s my short pro/con list:
MBP:
Pros - Stability; can get it now at a local store; can dual boot (both OS X & XP); has the “cool” factor
Cons - Warranty limited/no accidental insurance option; different OS - what if we just don’t like the OS at all (the restocking fee is 10%)
T61p:
Pros - Durability; familiar OS; warranty w/accidental option; many people seem to like the keyboard layout better
Cons - have to order (3-5 day shipping window)
So that is where we are at…
We have an appointment at the Apple store to play on a MBP for an hour. Should be fun! 
By cbmrj777 on Apr 13, 2008 in Misc.
A new computer! What fun (and a laptop, to boot…I’m jealous!:-))
Based purely on your pro/con list, I’d go with the T61p. I’d try not to make the several day wait a factor, if possible. I mean, this is a purchase that should (hopefully) last for some time; don’t let a wait keep you from getting what you really want/need. Of course, after playing with the MPB, you may decide that IS what you really need! :-)
Have fun deciding, and enjoy your new computer!
Sue | Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Apple.
Mental P Mama | Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
Sounds like the Think Pro has less cons. But playing with the Apple may change your mind. It takes some getting used to, but they’re great (according to my sons).
And like Sue said, I wouldn’t let the wait time be a factor especially since it’s only 3-5 days.
Hmmmm. . .
Kate | Apr 13, 2008 | Reply
It is a tough decision. One thing I read was that the Apple screen was much much better which lends itself well to web designers and photographers. Although for photography, I’d still need a calibrated seperate stand-alone monitor for very detailed work…
I have a “test photo” to take with me to see how true-to-life the screen is. I already know from numerous reviews that the ThinkPad monitor won’t stack up…
Tough tough decision. Really it boils down to if the OS X is intuitive or not. If so, we’ll be getting it. If not, forget it. I don’t have all month to learn a new OS. I need to get some web work done… yesterday!
cbmrj777 | Apr 14, 2008 | Reply
Oh and the other thing I keep thinking of…
you always hear of Windows users switching to a MAC but you rarely hear of a MAC user switching to Windows… there must be a reason for that.
cbmrj777 | Apr 14, 2008 | Reply
I have the Lenovo x60, my boyfriend has a macbook pro. Get the Mac! I wish I could trade my lenovo in, too bad I’ve had it for almost a year. Nothing really WRONG with it, but you will be so pleased with the Apple. You’ll want to trade in all your computers!
Anne | Apr 14, 2008 | Reply