Macbook, Q320 or the HP Ddv3-2055ea?

mike gunnz · 23 Jul 2009 at 13:53

I'm looking at getting a laptop for my post grad studies in september. Gaming capability is not a priority as I won't be playing anything more demanding than FM09 on the odd occasion.

I'm interested in the 13.3" and the 15" Macbook Pro, with student discount I can get them for approx £800 and £1199 respectively direct from Apple.

Problem is I also like the HP Pavilion dv3-2055ea - 13.3in which has a great spec. Although it only has a C2D T6400 2.0GHz cpu it can be had for around £710.00 .

I'm also tempted by the Samsung Q320 - 13.4in which offers tremendous value although it can't compete in the looks department.

Aluminium unibody and massive battery life aside, I'm finding it impossible to justify spending an extra £400-£500 on a 15" MBP when the above two compete well in terms of specification.

I still want one though so but just need to convince myself its a good purchase which is where you lot come in with some well placed encouragement hopefully.

K1LLSW1TCH · 23 Jul 2009 at 14:01

What you have to bear in mind is even though Windows based machines are better priced in terms of hardware bang for buck, with the Macbook you're getting a real powerhouse of an OS. Everything in OS X works fluidly, And I'd say the extra cost is mostly due to how easy and efficient the software is. Also, I'd say that the Macbook's simply don't need that much in the way of processing power and memory compared to a Windows based notebook.

In the end I'd say go with the Macbook because in my opinion the extra dosh is well spent on a great little machine with a brilliant OS. The build quality is second to none also. Although in the end it depends on which operating system you prefer as to which laptop you go with.

dobbsy · 23 Jul 2009 at 14:44

Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa or Ferrari?

Your choice my friend

Got to take into account the build quality, screen and everything else. The Macbook is light years ahead of those other two for build quality, and the OS.

LordSplodge · 23 Jul 2009 at 15:37

Get the 13" MacBook Pro especially if you are going to carry it around a fair bit.

Worth every penny of the extra you'll need to spend. Build quality, battery life and OS X are worht the price of entry.

Even the 15" is worth the price. My brother has one and it is sublime.