MacBook Pro advice

NBiBooker · Jan 23rd, 2008, 02:12 PM

This spring or this fall, I've yet to finalize my plans, I'm planning on replacing my aging MacBook Core Duo with a MacBook Pro.

There are number of reasons (dedicated video card, expansion slots, bigger screen) that I'm moving up the MacBook line.

But I can't decide if I should go 15" or 17". The MacBook Pro will be a desktop replacement machine and one I take on the road. (Travel is mostly day-based and road-based). However, I do fly from time to time for work (in, egads, economy class) so I'm worried about the 17" MacBook Pro's footprint.

Any thoughts?

chas_m · Jan 23rd, 2008, 02:24 PM

From what you've posted, I would vote for the 15". It's extremely easy to plug into a second LCD monitor when at home, so it can function as a full desktop replacement, but much lighter and wieldy (the opposite of UNwieldy, I guess!) on the road.

Spend the differential on a really good case and sleeve (yes AND sleeve) for it.

bmovie · Jan 23rd, 2008, 02:39 PM

I too vote for the 15" (not only because I have one), but my sister has the 17" and man is it big, not very portable, in fact I find it bulky, so if you're planning on carrying it around it will weigh you down.
and just like chas_m wrote, you can plug it into another monitor. I have mine plugged into my Sony 55" TV.

8127972 · Jan 23rd, 2008, 02:57 PM

The 15" hands down. I carry it with me on the subway and I love the size. I couldn't imagine carrying around the 17"

phuviano · Jan 23rd, 2008, 03:02 PM

I'm going to follow the rest and say 15 incher as well. I have one myself, and I've taken it on many flights this year. I ride in economy class too. The laptop actually fits on the eating tray you pull down (the tray you put your drinks and food on). It fits relatively well. Anytime I'm on a plane, I'll use the tray, because I'm not putting the laptop on my lap. The 17 inch one would be too big to carry around on a daily basis or on a plane imo.

Oh, this is my desktop replacement as well. I don't have another computer. I have an external monitor if I want to use it as a desktop. Its powerful enough as a desktop replacement, and its portable enough to travel with.

vacuvox · Jan 23rd, 2008, 03:20 PM

Another vote for the 15". I use mine closed with an external monitor and keyboard. For one thing, this allows you to position the monitor and keyboard ergonomically. While away from base, it is easy to pack and the screen is fine (god we're spoiled). IF you need a 17" screen while out and about then you need a bigger screen.

doole · Jan 23rd, 2008, 04:21 PM

If I did a lot of traveling, I might worry more about the weight.

That said, I've got a 17, and I do absolutely love the screen. (And I've got one of those glossy screens that all the geeks say I'm supposed to hate.)

My vote: unless you're dragging it in & out of small cars several times a day, 17.

You won't get the 1920 x 1200 out of the 15, either. It's bloody gorgeous.

SINC · Jan 23rd, 2008, 04:24 PM

My 15 travels with me everywhere. I would not want anything bigger.

SilverMaple · Jan 23rd, 2008, 05:24 PM

I also vote for the 15" MBP.
I bought mine nearly 2 years ago and love it. It does everything I need (photography & music) and it's portable and easy to travel with.

doole · Jan 23rd, 2008, 05:46 PM

Considering that everybody is simply voting for what they own, this information might be considered somewhat less than useful...

We do all love our macs.