Macbook Pro or Macbook Pro or Hookers and Booze?

[hal]

Since you are not a speed freak, get the cheapest model available as long as it comes with a legit warranty...

I'd also take a good hard look at the 13" models - I always preferred the 15" powerbook over the 12" - the 12" was too small, but NOW I prefer the 13" to the 15" MBP.

[Sam3]

I'm always of the opinion to get the best that you can afford. As you have shown that you use a technology for a long time, I'd say future-proof yourself and get the i7 quad-core. Everything you do will be snappy. Photo retouching and Illustrator drawings will work that much faster. With a faster machine, you may discover that there are other applications that you'd like to try that were not feasible with a older, slower machine.

[davester]

Sam3 wrote: With a faster machine, you may discover that there are other 3D porn applications that you'd like to try that were not feasible with a older, slower machine.

Wow, I hadn't thought of that angle. Perhaps you're right.

(goes right along with h&b too)

[modelamac]

As I tend to keep my Macs 5 years or so, I want a Mac to be as useful as possible that last couple of years. I want to be able to run the latest OS at that time, to be able to take advantage of as much of the OS features as possible.

When I replace it, I want it to be useful for lesser duties for a grandchild or friend needing a computer.

I intend to buy 15" i7 MBP soon. It will replace this original 2006 MB 2.0 core duo, which will be shared between a brother & sister (grandkids). It won't run Lion, but will do very well for their school and personal needs for another couple of years. We'll set up parental controls and let the kids earn their way off that limitation.