First Mac - some questions prior to purchase

ajf

ajf

ajf

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After much debating about whether to buy an old mac to try out or just go with a new model I am nearly at the decision point of a new Macbook.
I have NEVER used a Mac before so would like final bit of advice before purchase.

Main decision is do I go with the basic Macbook spec or spend the extra £100 or so for the mid range model?
How much difference does going to 2Gb memory make? Can I upgrade memory easily later?
Would I really miss the superdrive?
I do very few DVDs, even on my PC and any backups are made to external hard disk.
I am likely to use the Mac eventually for photo editing - mostly standard raw editing using Lightroom or similar and 'maybe' a bit of basic video editing -on the level of Windows Movie Maker capabilites.

Also, am I likely to find any Macbooks for much less than RRP? I think I have managed to find either of the model mentioned for around £30 to £40 less. Am I likely to better that anywhere?

Couple other points:
I assume I can add an external monitor to a Macbook and have the equivelant of dual desktop?

Thank you.
Andrew
 
Dont suppose you are a student? Or know one who could buy it for you? :) I got a fair bit off at the apple store for higher education, and you can get the 200 quid+ warranty for 40 quid..
 
Unfortunately don't think the HE discounts would be an option for me.
Just wondered if there were any known specific palces likely to sell below RRP.
My main question is really whether I go for the basic or mid range Macbook.

Andrew
 
I myself have been looking for a macbook for a few weeks and have decided to wait as i have a feeling new macbooks will be coming out soon :)
 
The RAM in a MacBook is very easy to change and with it being so cheap these days I would say get your self 4Gb straight away. Check out the OCUK prices.

My MacBook doesn't have a SuperDrive and to be honest I don't miss it at all, just back up to external disk or send a file to another computer to burn to DVD.
 
Thanks for the comments.
Memory sure is cheap so guess I can look at just an upgrade - assume it is as straightforward as with PCs?
Any ideas what any new models might add or any idea on potential release dates?

Andrew
 
In terms of hardware it probably will be speed increases in the processors and maybe an upgraded integrated graphics chip.

However there are rumours that the MacBooks form factor is getting an update, namely to a aluminum case. However it looks like the MacBook Pro will be getting the biggest change in design and they might not change the normal MacBook at all.
 
I think the next MacBooks will be seeing a significant change in design. It has been coming for a long time and I think it's the right time.

That's sort of the opinion I've had for a while as well as a bit of hoping on my part. They best up the resolution too.
 
I think if they did up the resolution I would sell my current MacBook and get a new one. 1440 x 900 would be very nice indeed. At least Football Manager would fit on the screen :)
 
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