Which MacBook or MacBook Pro Would You Buy?
Gene Munster of Piper Jaffray reports that the fastest 13-inch MacBook Pro and the entry-level 15-inch MacBook Pro are the two most popular models in the MacBook Pro line. He reached this conclusion by looking at the shipping delays for all of the non-custom MacBook Pro models, the theory being that the most popular models would have the highest delay. Gene believes this is a sign that demand is outpacing supply.
Courtesy of Apple
I generally agree with Gene’s theory, although it’s also possible that Apple simply underestimated demand, as it has been known to do in the past, and that the current shipping delays are temporary, as Apple ramps production of the two new models.
Let’s put the theory to the test. If you were going to buy a MacBook or MacBook Pro, which standard model would you choose? If you’re inclined to customize your Mac, select the base model you would start from.
I actually just bought that bottom-of-the-line MacBook a few weeks ago, and I love it. I was upgrading from a five-year-old eMac, so it seems like a huge increase in speed and memory and coolness. Loved the price, too.
I was really torn between the 13, 15 and 17″ MBP models. This will be my first Apple computer. I have owned laptops/portables since the days of the original Compact suitcase computer. The 13″ is definitely the most “cool” model and it is easy to transport. If I flew more, I would get the 13″ model as the 15″ will be a tight squeeze in coach. However, my laptop tends to mostly only move around the house as I have a company Dell 14.1″ I travel with. I almost ordered a refurbished 17″ MBP 2.66 from the Apple web site. However, I made a wooden model of its dimensions and realized that it would not fit in any of my laptop bags or travel cases. So, I settled on the 15″ MPB. It seemed to be the best compromise.
I just ordered a 15″ MBP 2.66Mhz model. While I may never need the extra Graphic’s ability, ( I don play games ) I like knowing that it is there. I do occasionally do some 3D modeling. The fact that you can turn off the 9600 video processor to save battery power is a great feature. In other words it future proofs the laptop a little. I tend to keep laptops for a long time. My current HP is about 9 years old. I also decided that if I truly want a portable, I would watch out for a good deal on a used Macbook Air….
Anyway, that is how I made my decision ( took nearly a month… )
Hi Terri and Jeff,
I like the 15-inch MacBook Pro a lot. It sits right at the Goldilocks point: Not too big, not too small. Just right.
Of course I’m not a road warrior. Those who are on the go all the time might prefer the smaller size of the MacBook Pro, or the lighter weight of the MacBook Air.
But no matter which model you prefer, the current MacBook Pro lineup is one of the best Apple has fielded.
Tom