Computer Peeps- HELP ME make a choice!!

[LibraLiz1973]

Mac Book Pro

2.33GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
1680 x 1050 pixels
2GB memory
160GB hard drive1
8x double-layer SuperDrive
ATI Mobility Radeon X1600 graphics with 256MB SDRAM



Sony VAIO AR Series

Intel® Centrino® Duo Mobile Technology with Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor
Genuine Windows® XP Media Center Edition 2005 with Update Rollup 2
17" WUXGA XBRITE™ HiColor technology1
DVD+-R Double Layer/DVD+-RW Drive2 with Blu-Ray Disc™ support on select models
2GB3 RAM and 400GB4 Serial ATA hard drive




Some history on me- I've had Dells, Compaqs, HP & Gateway- I hated them all.
With each of the above I had to get a new computer within a year of purchase.
I switched to VAIO about 6 years ago and I LOVE them. I have 2 desktops and a laptop.
I'm giving my Vaio laptop to my mom so I'm getting a new one.
The reason I am looking at Apple is because I hear good things.

Give me your opinions!

[flvegan]

1. I'll vote VAIO before the MacLovers descend upon you

Seems like you've been Windows-based since the getgo. Might be an easier purchase to go with the same.

I'd also have to wonder what the hell is going on that you've replaced at least 4 computers within a year of purchase. That said, I'm replacing my second company Compaq in the past 6 months, so...

[LibraLiz1973]

3. lol... let me explain

I am NUTS about how fast the computer has to be. It has to be fast fast fast and I need to be able to have multiple windows open.
The computer needs to keep up with me. With all the other computes, I burned them out. They started to load slow, there was major lag in a myriad of programs, keeping different windows open was causing freezing etc. I also like to have all the bells and whistles on the computer(s).

I've now had 5 Vaios. The first one I got 6 years ago I just put down last year. It's actually still fine, I gave it to someone who is using it now. The VAIO product (in my experience) is unsurpassed. I am definitely leaning toward the Vaio- but some of the Mac programs have me wondering if I should have one to work with?

[Madrone]

4. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with Vaios -

I haven't heard many glowing reviews recently (last 1-2 years) - where I heard excellent things about them long ago. Nice to know someone's still having positive experiences!

[Madrone]

2. Sonys seem WAY overpriced and not that great of machines -

from what I've heard. Of course - people say the Macs are overpriced as well...so...


I LOVE LOVE LOVE my MBP. I made the jump when they switched to Intel, since I can put windows on it too if I want. In fact, dual booting Windows was one of the first things I was going to do --- and many months later I've lost most interest in doing so.

I have a brand new Toshiba laptop and a brand new MBP right now - and I love them both. If I could only have *one* however --- I'd go w/ the Mac.

[TommyO]

5. The 17" MacBook Pro is a sweet machine

Given the display resolution that you mentioned, I assume that's the one you're looking at.

As long as all of the software that you'll use is available for Mac OS-X, go for it. I'm using an older PowerMac now, and will be adding an Apple notebook to the stable later this year.

Just a quick addition, check to see if your employer participates in Apple's Employee Purchase Plan, or if you can get the student discounts, it will make the MacBook that much more affordable.

[LibraLiz1973]

6. Since I am keeping my 2 desktops

(and a 3rd vaio DT at work) I think it's ok if some of the software isn't compatible- which is lucky.
I definitely need the 17 inch- I like a bigger screen.

I have to go look at a Mac Book pro in person, because my one concern is the screen.
My laptop now has a screen that is like glass- people are always amazed by the picture.
Sony does a great screen. My friend has the G4 iBook and her screen is just a regular computer screen.
She constantly says she wishes her G4 had the Vaio screen on it.

I can't even explain what's so amazing about it, but, I choose to watch tv on it sometimes. lol

[TommyO]

7. MacBook Pros are available with a glossy display

which is what I think you're talking about - it's a no-cost option.