Macbook buying guide

Some things you should consider when buying a Macbook. iMacs remain decent value, but the new Macbooks are rather overpriced.

1st: its a big purchase, so research for yourself - Google 'macbook buying guide' for lots of more detailed guides.

BUY SECOND HAND OR REFURBED
The latest Macbooks are overpriced, and the trackbar is a rather foolish addition. IMO.
Apple lists several refurbed models, which are one option, but eBay and other sites for 2nd hand Macs are a good choice. You could simply ask in local Apple retailers too - try repair shops.

Obviously you should consider issues with guarantee (or lack of) when buying 2nd hand. If you can add AppleCare (extended warranty) its arguably worth it: expensive, but peace of mind.

I'm going to focus on Macbooks, but most of my points below apply equally to desktop iMacs.

Best laptop for a student to buy?

Another TechRadar list, with the advantage that they keep updating such lists.

The 13" Macbook Pro features in there - a word of caution. I've edited two 90 minute documentary films, one on a 13" and one on a 15" Mac Pro. I ended up in physiotherapy after scrunching over the 13" for several intensive weeks of near non-stop editing; the screen size necessitates constant zooming in and out and resizing Final Cut windows.

The 15" does too! If you're able to connect to a monitor at home, do so! The portable screen expander I blogged on yesterday might be a big help too (haven't tried one out myself).

The 13" is MUCH better value than the 15", but that small screen size is a big issue for video/image editing!

I've blogged separately on Macbooks - just make sure you get minimum 8GB of RAM!

Article link below the line

Gadget to extend your laptop screen

Neat gadget that allows you to extend your laptop screen - very tempted myself:

http://www.techradar.com/news/computing-components/peripherals/this-new-gadget-will-revolutionise-productivity-on-your-laptop-1298084