Laptop vs Macbook for university + suggestions

[quotidian]

I'm looking at getting a new laptop for when I start uni in the autumn. I'm doing engineering so I need to be able to program and run CAD software on the machine, gaming isn't really that much of an issue.

Screen size would be fine anywhere between 13 to 15 inches because the extra portability vs the extra screen sort of cancels out in my opinion. Main thing would be good battery life and also a laptop that is going to last for a reasonable amount of time without dying or becoming too slow to use.

I haven't had a macbook before but they seem like a popular choice and the student discount brings it down to a semi-reasonable price. Budget is up to £1000 as I was looking at either the macbook pro or one of the higher spec'd airs.

Any suggestions on laptops to consider vs a macbook?

Thanks

 

[ChrisD.]

I've had high spec laptops and MacBooks, I would recommend the MacBook myself. I don't know much about programming but most of my mates that do that sort of thing have Mac's and swear by them.

 

[Hxc]

Macbook via the online education store. Three year parts and labour, better build quality, and genuinely great computers. I reccomend an Air. Have had a 2011 i5 Air 11" since starting uni and it is still a perfect machine.

 

[quotidian]

Thanks I'll try to find someone with a macbook and have a go with one to see what their like. Would there be any point in spending half the money now and buying a fairly basic laptop at about £500 and then having the money to buy another one in 2 years that would be a bit fresher or is there nothing at that price point that could run cad?

 

[sas.wlv]

I'd have a little look at the MS Surface pro 2 (or similar) as well. The stylus is great for note taking/diagrams/graphs/pictures in OneNote and the Type Cover feels lovely to type on. I use mine for distance learning and can definetely recommend it as an educational aide.