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Question

new or refurbished MacBook pro?

Jun 30, 2012 5:01AM PDT

I'm buying a MacBook pro (15" with hi-res screen) for my son for his graphic design studies. A refurbished Oct 2011 model (2.5GHz Quad-core Intel i7) costs $1829. A new one will cost $260 more (after the student discount and $100 gift card you get with purchase of AppleCare on a new MacBook). I wonder if it's worth it to buy new? I understand the difference will be a significant difference in power and speed?

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Frankly my son will get the basic MacBook.
Jun 30, 2012 5:36AM PDT
http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MD101LL/A is just 1199 so looks to be half the cost. Then in 2 years after they get going and have broken one you can get another for same amount for the next 2 years. I find the kids tend to play video games on the high end models rather than study.

If they need a big display we use the common externals.
Bob
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graphic design demands?
Jun 30, 2012 5:50AM PDT

Thanks R, this certainly makes sense for most students but it's my understanding that the programs used in graphic design demand a faster, more powerful laptop with excellent graphics and that the new MBP is significantly better in that regard. Since the savings don't seem to be all that much on a refurb, I'm debating which way to go. But I do hear you on the chance that he'll break it within a couple years. This actually happened last year when he spilled water on his laptop, ruining it! Hopefully he learned his lesson and will be more careful.

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And they do.
Jun 30, 2012 5:56AM PDT

And the current model I noted is more than up to the task. This is leading edge and you seem to want to go to the bleeding edge. That's fine but the model I noted is going to be better than 99% of what folk use today. Even in graphic arts companies I see them using 6 or so year old Mac Pros. This model handily outperforms those with rare exceptions.

Again your choice but are you ready to buy again in 2 years?
Bob

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Re: demands
Jun 30, 2012 6:26AM PDT

Your understanding might be right, and it might be wrong.

What does the university say? I assume it's something like "It must be a Mac, the minimum requirements are ..., the recommended system spec is ...". They really are the best one to tell you.

Kees

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food for thought!
Jun 30, 2012 10:00AM PDT

Thanks much! You seem to have read my mind.After my earlier reply I realized that I had only my son's word for what is "required" so earlier this afternoon I sent an email to the graphic design advisor at his school to ask about minimum requirements. If I can save $1000 by going with the model you mention, R., and it will be up to the design tasks my son will need to do, then I'll certainly go that route!