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Mac laptop threads for newbies (Please read before you post!)

Ham'nd'egger

So, you have decided to save yourself from the perils of Liam Geata (Bill Gates) and to place your online life in an Apple notebook, and we thank you! We know they are the best, it's just a matter of finding the best one for you and your needs.

There are 3 ranges of Apple notebook to look out for, depending on what you want the notebook to do for, what you want out of it, how cool you want to look or how much you can afford. They are as follows....

Macbook The so called baby of the range, these are small and sexy but don't be fooled by it's innocent looks, it is a powerful unit. Macbooks come in a slick white and black finish, with a 13.3" widescreen display, built in webcam, Bluetooth, USB, WIFI, Firewire and remote control unit. A DVD writer comes in all Macbooks except the 2Ghz model. They are powered with a 2Ghz/2.2Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo and 1Gig RAM standard, with expansion up to 4Gig allowable and up to 250GB hard drive. Graphics are good and will play any DVD or video with ease.

Macbooks are ideal for anybody who wants a sexy, light yet capable model; they are just 5lbs weight and are quick as you like. Online prices begin at €1,049; this figure includes VAT and all delivery charges.

Macbook Pro are the serious mobile laptop intended to be a desktop on the move or for the professional who needs the best in a small box. Available in 15" and 17" widescreen, these beasts are cased in titanium and are rock solid hard. Ranging from 2.2Ghz to 2.6Ghz Core 2 Duo Intel, they also include 2Gig RAM standard, and can be boosted up to 250GB hard drive. An Nvidia graphics card is fitted to all Macbook Pro models, and you have the choice of a standard or glossy display on same. Bluetooth, USB and Firewire 400 and 800 allow for connectivity to other devices; a backlit keyboard make it a joy to use when it gets dark. Prices begin at €1,899 for the 15" model

Macbook Pro's are ideal for professionals on the road who will need a laptop with a tough exterior or who want a desktop functionality and grunt outside. Though a little heavier than a Macbook, the additional power and capabilities of a MBP make up for it and render it more than able for almost anything you want it to do.

Macbook Air is the new range of laptop from Apple. Two models here; a1.6/1.8 Ghz Core 2 Duo, 2Gig RAM with 80 GB or 64 GB solid state hard drive. Though slightly less well specced than the other two models, the Air makes up in size; she is less than 2CM thick when closed and weighs just 3lb! Air also has no ROM drive installed, instead utilizing the drive of external units :cool: Prices are from €1,699

As with any consumer product, it is you alone who can decide which model is the right one for you. Macbook is cheaper but will do everything bar the heavier of graphic/AV work, Macbook Pro has more power and is hardier and more variations but pricier, Macbook Air is as small and thin as you will get.

When you get your Mac, it will have the Operating System (OS) installed. All you need to do is turn it on and plug it into your internet. You will get a charger and restore disc in your box (Not a full version, mind, so don't try and install it into an old Mac; I tried and failed!), along with an instruction manual. Most models include a remote control as well.

Lastly, there is but one place that you can be 100% assured of buying the newest and most up to date Apple laptop; that being Apple themselves. In Ireland, you can get them online at http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/irlstore or via the phone on 1800 92 38 98. Apple will get you the newest model possible (Your current OS is 10.5). Apple sell some "refurbished" units on their stores, try them if you want to sniff out a potential bargain. These typically are returned units and will be fully protected under warranty. In regards to the prices of Apple notebooks, while they seem high, they do compare well with similarly specced Windows laptops, and in some cases at the high end are cheaper or more powerful.

As to other Apple retailers? Shops such as 3G, O2, PC World etc sell Apple; if you need to purchase on credit, try them. At times, external retailers may charge less or indeed more than Apple so ask round for assistance if required or they may hold older stock; please be aware of this before you purchase same. Other sales agents to try are as follows....

http://www.bigbearsound.com/ (Dublin) (good if it's for Audio)
http://www.bondigroup.ie/ (Dublin)
http://www.mactivate.ie/ (Dublin) (Repair centre)
http://www.mcetech.com/
http://www.sfbags.com/
http://www.macsales.com/
http://www.typetec.ie/ (Dublin) (Repair centre)
http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/irlstore
http://promo.euro.apple.com/promo/refurb/uk/
http://www.compustore.ie
http://www.welovemacs.com/
http://www.compub.ie/ (Limerick)
http://www.powerbookmedic.com
http://www.galmac.com/ (Galway)
http://www.screenway.ie/ (Galway)
http://www.custom.ie/
http://www.overt.ie/
http://www.applemacireland.com/
http://www.macnews.de/
http://shops.buyandsell.ie/4macComputers/index.php
http://www.logic2.net/ (Limerick)

Happy hunting!

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triple h

My experience with the Macbook

Some people can be put off by price of mac's, but that is silly, it only seems t be that way. All computers end up the same price in the end. The software you get with a new mac out of the box is awesome.

Anyway the Macbook ---- this is a fantastic notebook. I bought mine in the Apple store. When i was in the Apple store i looked at a brand new one at first, then in the search box i typed --- refurb --- i was brought to the refurb store ( explained above ) and i noticed a Macbook with the exact same specs as a new model, but it was €150 cheaper. So i bought the refurb model. No regrets, i love it.
Battery life is excellent. I see windows users having to wait for ages to use their laptop when they open it up to use it, that is not the case with a mac. because of the sleep function your macbook (or any mac) is good to go straight away when you open it up, no waiting around.
Now i bought my Macbook for light work because i already own an imac. Do not be put off by what i just said here, the Macbook is still a powerful little notebook. If you own a desktop already and you need something portable the macbook is the right buy for you. Also if you are only going to be surfing the web, shopping, buying music, storing photos and not doing any heavy heavy work, then the macbook is for you.

Only one piece of warning

If you want to make dvd's you should make sure your macbook has a double layer super drive and not a combo drive.

The macbook pro i cannot tell you about as i do not own one, but i will tell you this --- the macbook pro is good enough to replace any desktop computer, that is how good it is and after my great experience with the macbook, i will look at this option in a few years time for sure, to replace a desktop if i choose to go that road.

foobar

Hamndegger wrote: »

S
Macbook Pro are the serious mobile laptop intended to be a desktop on the move or for the professional who needs the best in a small box. Available in 15" and 17" widescreen, these beasts are cased in titanium and are rock solid hard

Nice write up. I wish they were cased in itanium, they would be bullet proof !! You do get aluminium which is light, but not quite as rock solid hard

Ham'nd'egger

Edited to reflect spec ungrades on all lines.

Hamndegger wrote: »

So, you have decided to save yourself from the perils of Liam Geata (Bill Gates) and to place your online life in an Apple notebook, and we thank you! We know they are the best, it's just a matter of finding the best one for you and your needs.

There are 3 ranges of Apple notebook to look out for, depending on what you want the notebook to do for, what you want out of it, how cool you want to look or how much you can afford. They are as follows....

Macbook The so called baby of the range, these are small and sexy but don't be fooled by it's innocent looks, it is a powerful unit. Macbooks come in a slick white and black finish, with a 13.3" widescreen display, built in webcam, Bluetooth, USB, WIFI, Firewire and remote control unit. A DVD writer comes in all Macbooks except the 2Ghz model. They are powered with a 2.1Ghz/2.4Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo and 1Gig RAM standard, with expansion up to 4Gig allowable and up to 250GB hard drive. Graphics are good and will play any DVD or video with ease.

Macbooks are ideal for anybody who wants a sexy, light yet capable model; they are just 5lbs weight and are quick as you like. Online prices begin at €999 this figure includes VAT and all delivery charges.

Macbook Pro are the serious mobile laptop intended to be a desktop on the move or for the professional who needs the best in a small box. Available in 15" and 17" widescreen, these beasts are cased in aluminium and are rock solid hard. Powered with 2.4Ghz/2.5Ghz/2.6Ghz Core 2 Duo Intel processor chips, they come with 2 Gig RAM standard, and can be boosted up to 250GB hard drive. An NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT graphics card is fitted to all Macbook Pro models, and you have the choice of a standard or glossy display on same. Bluetooth, USB and Firewire 400 and 800 allow for connectivity to other devices; a backlit keyboard make it a joy to use when it gets dark. Prices begin at €1,799 for the 15" model

Macbook Pro's are ideal for professionals on the road who will need a laptop with a tough exterior or who want a desktop functionality and grunt outside. Though a little heavier than a Macbook, the additional power and capabilities of a MBP make up for it and render it more than able for almost anything you want it to do.

Macbook Air is the new range of laptop from Apple. Two models here; a 1.6/1.8 Ghz Core 2 Duo, 2Gig RAM with 80 GB or 64 GB solid state hard drive. Though slightly less well specced than the other two models, the Air makes up in size; she is less than 2CM thick when closed and weighs just 3lb! Air also has no ROM drive installed, instead utilizing the drive of external units :cool: Prices are from €1,699

As with any consumer product, it is you alone who can decide which model is the right one for you. Macbook is cheaper but will do everything bar the heavier graphic/AV work, Macbook Pro has more power and is hardier and offers more variations but pricier, Macbook Air is as small and thin as you will get.

When you get your Mac, it will have the Operating System (OS) installed. All you need to do is turn it on and plug it into your internet. You will get a charger and restore disc in your box (Not a full version, mind, so don't try and install it into an old Mac; I tried and failed!), along with an instruction manual. Some softwares can be bought pre installed when you order your Mac, ask when ordering for this. Most models include a remote control as well; this will be listed when ordering.

Lastly, there is but one place that you can be 100% assured of buying the newest and most up to date Apple laptop; that being Apple themselves. In Ireland, you can get them online at http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/irlstore or via the phone on 1800 92 38 98. Apple will get you the newest model possible (Your current OS is 10.5). Apple sell some "refurbished" units on their stores, try them if you want to sniff out a potential bargain. These typically are returned units and will be fully protected under warranty. In regards to the prices of Apple notebooks, while they seem high, they do compare well with similarly specced Windows laptops, and in some cases at the high end are cheaper or more powerful. Almost all Intel's in Mac's run at over 2Ghz and are clocked at 800Mhz, giving significant improvements over Macs from even 6 months gone.

As to other Apple retailers? Shops such as 3G, Harvey Norman, O2, PC World etc sell Apple; if you need to purchase on credit, try them. At times, external retailers may charge less or indeed more than Apple so ask round for assistance if required or they may hold older stock; please be aware of this before you purchase same as you may not have an up to date machine as seen on the Apple Shop online. Other sales agents to try are as follows....

http://www.bigbearsound.com/ (Dublin) (good if it's for Audio)
http://www.bondigroup.ie/ (Dublin)
http://www.mactivate.ie/ (Dublin) (Repair centre)
http://www.mcetech.com/
http://www.sfbags.com/
http://www.macsales.com/
http://www.typetec.ie/ (Dublin) (Repair centre)
http://store.apple.com/Apple/WebObjects/irlstore
http://promo.euro.apple.com/promo/refurb/uk/
http://www.compustore.ie
http://www.welovemacs.com/
http://www.compub.ie/ (Limerick)
http://www.powerbookmedic.com
http://www.galmac.com/ (Galway)
http://www.screenway.ie/ (Galway)
http://www.custom.ie/
http://www.overt.ie/
http://www.applemacireland.com/
http://www.macnews.de/
http://shops.buyandsell.ie/4macComputers/index.php
http://www.logic2.net/ (Limerick)

Happy hunting!

Ham'nd'egger

foobar wrote: »

Nice write up. I wish they were cased in itanium, they would be bullet proof !! You do get aluminium which is light, but not quite as rock solid hard .

Noted and edited, thanks for pointing it out.

zekiel

could you also add http://www.dectek.ie to that list of retailers + authrorised repair centre's as the company is officially both. Thanks.

skywards

May I add that if you just want to surf the web, an old mac is great? I bought mine off ebay last June and it has been GREAT. Surfs the web faster than my mothers new dell, in fact *smirk*

johnk123

I just noticed that this hasn't been updated with the latest specs etc since the unibody upgrade. I'm not being picky or anything btw, just saying is all.

Ham'nd'egger

johnk123 wrote: »

I just noticed that this hasn't been updated with the latest specs etc since the unibody upgrade. I'm not being picky or anything btw, just saying is all.

I have not had to time to, simple as. I'll run a new one next week when I get a wee bit of time.

conchubhar1

also i have a white 2ghz macbook - and i can burn dvds.... ?

Ham'nd'egger

Current Specs.....

Updated to reflect current prices and power specs; any edits let me know....

Macbook is the baby of the range, these are white and sexy but don't be fooled by it's innocent looks, it is a powerful unit. Macbooks comes with a 13.3" widescreen display, built in webcam, Bluetooth, USB, WIFI and Firewire; a DVD Superdrive burner comes fitted as well.

They are powered with a 2.16 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo and 2Gb RAM standard, with expansion up to 4Gb allowable and 160-500 GB hard drive. Graphics are currently powered with an NVIDEA G Force 9400M so games and videos won't be sluggish. Macbooks are ideal for anybody who wants a sexy, light yet capable model; they are just 5lbs weight and are quick as you like and cost just €949; this figure includes VAT and all delivery charges from Apple.

Macbook Pro are the serious mobile laptop intended to be a desktop on the move or for the professional who needs the best in a small box. Available in three size models...

13" come with two options; an entry level 2.26 Ghz starting at €1,149 with 2Gb RAM as standard and a 160-500GB hard drive or a 128/256 Solid State Hard Drive option... OR a 2.53 Ghz model starting at €1,449 with 4Gb RAM and 250-500GB hard drives or the 128/256 Solid State Drives. Both 13" line includes the NVIDEA Geforce 9400M graphics card so gaming and graphics are easily handled. The metal cased units have a backlit keyboard, a slot for SD cards and a unibody battery built in offering up to 7 hours use between charges!
15" comes with four options of processor, 2.53, 2.66, 2.8 and 3.06 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processors. All come with 4Gb RAM as standard, upgradable to 8Gb. Hard Drives come with optional 250-500GB Serial ATA drives with either 5400RPM or 7200RPM speed options; solid state drives at 128/256GB are also available. Anti Glare screens are available while SD Card slots and backlit keyboards are standard. All models in the 15" range come with two NVIDEA graphic cards (9400M Ge Force and a 9600m GT at 256 Mb; the 2.8/3.06 Ghz models have 512 Mbs) fitted apart from the 2.53Ghz model; it has just the 9400M Prices in the 15" line start from €1,649 to €2,149 depending on the base option you choose.
17" is the King of the Jungle and is intended for serious pro users on the move that need hyper power and grunt and the bigger screen. Starting at €2,299 and equipped with a 2.8 or a 3.06 Intel Processor, 4GB RAM and NVIDA Geforce 9400M and 9600M GT with 512Mb), you get either the 500 GB processor at 5400/7200 RPM or 128/256 GB Solid State Drives.

Macbook Pro's are ideal for professionals on the road who will need a laptop with a tough exterior or who want a desktop functionality and grunt outside. Though a little heavier than a Macbook, the additional power and capabilities of a MBP make up for it and render it more than able for almost anything you want it to do. All Macbook Pro's are cased in metal and come with backlit keyboards, SD slots and numerous ports as standard.

Macbook Air is the slimmest and smallest range of laptop from Apple. Two models here; a 1.86 Core 2 Duo fitted with 2 GB RAM an an 120 GB at €1449 or a 2.13 Ghz with 128 GB solid state hard drive at €1,699; both models including the NVIDEA Geforce 9400M graphics card. Though slightly less well specced than the other two models, the Air makes up in size; she is less than 2CM thick when closed and weighs just 3lb! Air also has no ROM drive installed, instead utilizing the drive of external units or an optional DVD drive for €89.

Bear in mind that these prices are as shown on Apple Ireland's website; http://store.apple.com/ie/

As with any consumer product, it is you alone who can decide which model is the right one for you. Macbook is cheaper but will do everything bar the heavier of graphic/AV work, Macbook Pro has more power and is hardier and more variations but a little pricier, Macbook Air is as small and thin as you will get but less powerful and bereft of it's DVD drive.

When you get your Mac, it will have the Operating System (OS) installed. All you need to do is turn it on and plug it into your internet. You will get a charger and restore disc in your box (Not a full version, mind, so don't try and install it into an old Mac; I tried and failed!), along with an instruction manual. Most models include a remote control as well; check when ordering if this is the case.

Lastly, there is but one place that you can be 100% assured of buying the newest and most up to date Apple laptop; that being Apple themselves. In Ireland, you can get them online at http://store.apple.com/ie/ or via the phone on 1800 92 38 98.

Apple will always get you the newest model possible (Your current OS is 10.6 aka Snow Leopard). Apple sell some "refurbished" units on their stores, try them if you want to sniff out a potential bargain. These typically are returned units and will be fully protected under warranty and in many cases perfect and overly well tested. In regards to the prices of Apple notebooks, while they seem high, they do compare well with similarly specced Windows laptops, and in some cases at the high end are cheaper or more powerful.

Ham'nd'egger

A contact list of Apple resellers in Ireland can be found here.

http://www.apple.com/ie/buy/locator/

This will give the locations and contact details for all legit Apple resellers in Ireland; as well as specifying Premium Resellers.

440Hz

Anyone fancy updating this? (I would, but I simply haven't a moment to do it... not for a few months at least!!)

Ham'nd'egger

440Hz wrote: »

Anyone fancy updating this? (I would, but I simply haven't a moment to do it... not for a few months at least!!)

I was waiting for the update of the MBP range before I did anything so I will get it done over the coming days. I will also include prices and specs for the iPad as some people will look at it as a laptop and we will get some questions about it in time.

mickredirl

Hi guys. I recently got me first macbook pro and I am telling you now.. Windows is dead, long live Mac... It's just so brilliant!!! Had a look at the ipad!!! think I'll wait a few generations of ipad before i consider one.. It's just like a big iphone!!

Any way.. Just wanted to say that I love my mac :-) Happy days :-)

Ham'nd'egger

Time I updated this thread.....:)

There are 4 options for a Apple Laptop....

The Macbook is the de facto entry laptop. It's white, it has a 13" screen, webcam and is fitted with a 2.4 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor and 2 Gig RAM. Hard drive options are from 250GB, 320 and 500GB and a useful Nvidea Gforce Graphics card is installed. Prices begin at €999.

Macbook Pro are the harder working line and designed for pros on the road who need a solid machine with desktop speeds. DVD Superdrive, WIFI, Bluetooth, Ethernet and a unibody battery with up to 10 hours life are all included as well as Firewire 800 port and a SD card reader; a backlit keyboard and sleek metal body give it a solid yet sexy feeling unit. There are 3 sizes of screen to look at....

13" starts with 2.4 Ghz with 250 GB HD (€1149+) or a 2.66 Ghz processed model (€1449+) with 320 GB HD and optional 500 GB hard discs or Solid State Drives at 128, 256 or 512 GBs respectfully available as an upgrade. Both lines are equipped with Nvidea Gforce cards and 4 Gig of RAM and are expandable to 8 Gigs.

15" offers a 320 GB 2.4 Ghz Intel i5 (€1799+), 2.54 Ghz i5 (€1,999+) and a i7 2.66 model (€2199+), both with 500 GH drives. All three have 4 Gig of RAM expandable to 8 Gigs and NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M with 256 MB apart from i7 which has 512 MB. SDD upgrades are available here as well while optional hi res screen options are also available upon ordering.

17" offers i5 2.53 Ghz or i7 2.66 Ghz as well as SSD and Hi Res screen options; a NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M 512 MB fires up graphics on this line.

The Macbook Air are ultra light machines designed with portability in mind. Powered with Intel 1.86 (€1449+) or 2.13 (€1669+) Intel Core 2 Duo processors and NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics, this machines are fun yet energy efficient. The MBA has no DVD drive installed so an external drive is essential, either sold separately or from an external drive of another computer.

Lastly is the much touted iPad. These are about 10"x8" big and come with 16GB, 23 GB or 64 GB hard disc memory. WIFI and bluetooth are fitted and battery life is up to 10 hours, all going well. As with MBA, there is no DVD drive on these machines, they relying on a second computer to back up info in the same way an iPhone backs up. These are not intended as a computer but as a lighter machine for use for e mail, music playback and basic web browsing.

Prices for these depend on HD size and if they are fitted with a 3G Data card plan; O2, Vodafone and 3 Mobile offer these packages on their network, subject to subscriptions.

As with all laptops, these prices and specs are subject to change from time to time and are Apples current prices up until today. While many retailers stock Apple products in store, only Apple can guarantee the most up to date machines and the most up to date prices online at http://store.apple.com/ie/. That said, Apple resellers may offer better prices from time to time so shop around and shop wisely.

nonnymouse

Hi, thanks for the updated specs above.
I am in the fortunate position of being able to afford a macbook at long last

But i have a question- as a total newb I am wondering do macs REALLY not need antivirus software?
I was having a gander in the local pc world and they had kapersky and norton antivirus for mac for sale.
So now i'm confuzzeled already - do i need to buy antivirus?
Sorry if i appear a bit thick

but i'd appreciate anyones opinion on this. Thanks. mouse.

Ham'nd'egger

nonnymouse wrote: »

Hi, thanks for the updated specs above.
I am in the fortunate position of being able to afford a macbook at long last
But i have a question- as a total newb I am wondering do macs REALLY not need antivirus software?
I was having a gander in the local pc world and they had kapersky and norton antivirus for mac for sale.
So now i'm confuzzeled already - do i need to buy antivirus?
Sorry if i appear a bit thick but i'd appreciate anyones opinion on this. Thanks. mouse.

Absolutely not, you don't need to buy anti virus for Mac. As it stands, there is no virus or worms or Trojans or issues out there to protect against so anti virus is a waste of money and these guys know it. All these softwares will do is scan for issues that may affect Windows machines on any files coming in and out of your Mac; it's the computer equivalent of you cutting next doors grass to save his gardener work; it's wasting your money for their problem!

When I think of it, please try not to buy from PC World if you can avoid it as their Mac sales knowledge will be less than stellar.

nonnymouse

Hi and thanks ,
I appreciate the information above. So thats another 70 odd euro i'll save!

Also- I think i will heed your advice on pc world - if they were 'mac world' it would make sense to buy from them. My son told me about the mac shop opposite Trinity college. Fab shop!
I look forward in participating in this forum from the end of the month!

corpo3030

Hi, just to chime in here re anti virus software. I have downloaded sophos anti virus for Mac I figured it couldn't hurt to have it and anyway it was free. It hasn't slowed down my old iBook so far at any rate! Probably no reason to have it but still, better safe than sorry.

Ipod101

hi would you mind updating with new mbp specs

[Deleted User]

http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/macbook_pro/index-macbookpro.html

At the bottom.

Ipod101

thanks

ithread

Hi

Just read through the thread there and its really good! I was just wondering if someone could offer advice. I would love to buy a mac laptop to see me through college (with word etc). However I may want to use photoshop, illiustrator and the like for some design work too. In reading the threads it seems I may need a macbook pro but the price is putting me off.

Any suggestions would be great!

BMF Plint

ithread wrote: »

Hi

Just read through the thread there and its really good! I was just wondering if someone could offer advice. I would love to buy a mac laptop to see me through college (with word etc). However I may want to use photoshop, illiustrator and the like for some design work too. In reading the threads it seems I may need a macbook pro but the price is putting me off.

Any suggestions would be great!

Not at all a fairly recent macbook(white) or a up to 3 or 4 year old macbook pro would be plenty for what you need. I really think once it says core 2 duo everything should run fine

ithread

Thanks BMF Plint! I went ahead and bought an iMac second hand and love it! Couldn't resist!

Snowie

ithread wrote: »

Hi

Just read through the thread there and its really good! I was just wondering if someone could offer advice. I would love to buy a mac laptop to see me through college (with word etc). However I may want to use photoshop, illiustrator and the like for some design work too. In reading the threads it seems I may need a macbook pro but the price is putting me off.

Any suggestions would be great!

I've got a 13.3 inch mac book pro which I baught 2nd hand of adverts I use photo shop illustrator and final cut. It can be a little slow when working on big files but over all it's lite gets the job done..