hi all,

im looking towards upgrading my laptop as the one i have now (asus m5) is really slowing down especially with the image sizes I use.

my needs are:

- PC platform (because of work)
- 12" if at all possible for mobility
- dvd writer (is a wish list)
- core duo (if possible)
- less than 4 lbs. (for my back)

any suggestions would come much appreciated.

a black macbook.

that would really be super, the cost isnt bad too. except that i need to work on a PC platform

Actually, with Apple's Boot Camp, you can run Windows natively on an Intel Mac just like the MacBook :) Just saw the black MacBook yesterday at Glorietta and the finish and keyboard are really nice.

Actually, with Apple's Boot Camp, you can run Windows natively on an Intel Mac just like the MacBook :) Just saw the black MacBook yesterday at Glorietta and the finish and keyboard are really nice.


amen to that.

any Windows options? just wondering what the competition looks like from the dark side

I just bought acer 5502znwxci and jupgraded to 1gb ram. This is not the best laptop but it helps me a lot. Majority of my work process done on my pc. p4 3.2 with 2gb ram & 128 video card then transfer into my laptop to show the clients.

By the way, the specs:
Intel p1.73 centrino
14.1 wxga
intel graphics media accelerator 900
60gb hdd
dvd/cd-rw combo802.11 b/g wifi-lan

windows not included.

Rich

Some Macbook specs for comparison:

1.83GHz (white only) or 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo (white or black)
13.3-inch (diagonal) TFT glossy widescreen display
Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950
512MB installed but up to 2GB memory max
60GB or 80GB 5400-rpm Serial ATA hard disk
Slot-loading combo optical drive (white only) or DVD-writer

Built-in 54-Mbps 802.11g AirPort Extreme wireless
Analog and digital audio in and out
FireWire 400 and USB 2.0 ports
iLife ’06, Mac OS X Tiger
Apple Remote with Front Row

Local prices from Ynzal.com
13.3" MacBook 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/60GB/COMBO/ - White.....P69,980
13.3" MacBook 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/60GB/SD - White .....P79,980
13.3" MacBook 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/80GB/SD - Black.....P92,980

from the June 7, 2006 of Time.com
"...the MacBook gave me an excellent opportunity to try out Boot Camp — that's the installation of Windows XP as a second operating system, in case you hadn't heard. On startup, I can choose the Mac OS or Windows, and everything I tried in the latter environment worked as well as it could have. I even tested out MTV's Urge service with — Jobs forgive me — an iriver clix music player. It all worked together even more smoothly than it had done on my high-powered Dell desktop.

...The MacBook is a powerful and affordable option, especially for people who are uncertain about their Windows future. The next version, Vista, might be a success, but with a MacBook you can hedge your bet. You get a computer that runs both Mac OS X and Windows XP today, and even appears to meet the minimum requirements for Vista once it gets here. Dell and HP should be very worried indeed." (from see article here (http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1201878,00.html))

my cousin just bought a Dell 12" Core Duo notebook, 65K in all. I just don't know the exact specs and model :D

I'd go for the MIB! :D (Macbook in Black)

Since I'm a member of Philmug, the promo below applies:

Exclusive to PhilMUG Promo:
-with FREE Airborne Access 2-months Horizon Plan (Worth: P2,500)

13.3" MacBook 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/60GB/COMBO - White .....P66,000
13.3" MacBook 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/60GB/SD - White.....P78,400
13.3" MacBook 2.0GHz Intel Core Duo/512MB/80GB/SD - Black.....P89,900

an even better deal Dex! Go for it!

thanks guys. im looking at a dell d420 right now. im curious about the dell you mentioned jon. its very reasonably priced at 65k.

paul -- as i remember it, it's almost same as a macbook, only better in paper:

1.66ghz Core Duo
512mb ram
80gb hdd
DVDRW
Go Geforce 7000 64mb??
Wifi
built in cam
and 12" widescreen.

:D I'll ask for the model :D

paul -- as i remember it, it's almost same as a macbook, only better in paper:

1.66ghz Core Duo
512mb ram
80gb hdd
DVDRW
Go Geforce 7000 64mb??
Wifi
built in cam
and 12" widescreen.

:D I'll ask for the model :D

hmmm, based on the specs
lowend Macbook is faster
equal ram
60gb hdd (macbook) vs 80gb hdd (dell)
combo drive vs dvd burner
wifi/bluetooth (macbook) vs wifi (dell)
both have built-in cam but I wonder if dell software can match Apple's
13.3" screen vs 12"
Macbook comes bundled with iLife (iPhoto included) and Front Row (multimedia app)

almost a dead heat just considering above

have any of you guys experienced bootcamp? can it run windows based (third party and locally made) programs? if so, ill go for the MIB.

thanks for your help guys!

Paul, check out www.philmug.ph and this 14 page thread on Bootcamp experiences. (http://www.philmug.ph/forum/showthread.php?t=12481) I know Dave Deluria from PhilMUG who's also on this forum is running Bootcamp.

will do tj. thanks a bunch

he he, now Im more confused as ever if I get the macbook or the dell d420! the forum of bootcamp and the review of phil thurrot seems intimidating to me in a sense that I have been using windows all these years. in addition, isnt it easier to sell a PC platform laptop as compared to the Mac?

going to the original question, why the Macbook for digital photography?

going to the original question, why the Macbook for digital photography?

because it's a mac.

non-techie here, but am also curious if the macbook is a good platform for digital photo hobbyists like me? is there really a big difference in the sablility of the mac os vs windows xp? and if i start to do photoshop will the mac book suffice for a hobbyist? (the screen in terms of color rendition etc). is it also enough to replace a desktop? am considering getting a computer since my old desktop pc died on me.

my apologies if the questions are really basic, medyo technophobe kasi:Grin: but since i got my digicam will have to start loving the pc or mac as the future case may be:)

hi nino,

thanks for the straight answer. i have asked and gotten mixed feedback on the mac vs pc situation. what truly is the difference? is it processing speed, color, rendering, etc?

thanks a bunch and i hope my questions get to help other members as well.

have a great weekend!

I too am in a market for a laptop and my counterpart, Nino Carandang, is the biggest die hard mac user around. He'd probably cringe if I bought something else. Something you gotta think about before buying the new Mac with the Intel chips is that if you run Photoshop on OSX, it will be around 40% slower than the old Macs. CS2 hasn't been optimized yet for the new Intel chip. You would have to wait for CS3 to come out in Spring '07 to get any of the speed benefits of the new Intel chip.

I personally don't think there are any benefits for photography if you were to go with a Mac. In fact, PC has more third party software support for Photoshop that this might be the most sensible direction to go. My main concern when making this decision, speed and memory being equal, is the quality of the monitor and its resolution. I need to be able to see the picture and those colors accurately. So do I get the new Mac or a PC? I'll make a decision after I see the monitor.

Well for one thing Colorsync (http://www.apple.com/macosx/features/colorsync/) is built into the OS itself making color management efficient. A downloadable PDF is available here. (http://images.apple.com/pro/pdf/Color_Mgmt_inTiger.pdf)

In terms of performance, it runs fast using native "universal binary" apps. Even Windows apps like Photoshop run fast (http://www.creativemac.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=45099) under Boot Camp even when compared to some PC desktops.

hi lester,

what about third party applications? those developed by companies in house that are PC based?

i read the articles and threads on philmug and it seems (pardon my ignorance) that there is a hassle in dual boot. im not so sure but somewhere in the thread, they mentioned about having to follow certain steps if not, you get an error. how about transferring from one OS to the next, is it as easy as say: logging out in windows?

I cant seem to shake the feeling that there are totally different viewpoints on Mac and PC. Im asking these questions so that I can maximize my investment for my usage. id love to have the black macbook (just by looking at it) but would it be hassle free for me? and if not, would it be easy to resell as compared to PC based laptops?

thanks for the info in advance.

Hey! I saw my name in this thread.

Yes. I do run BootCamp which allows ICBMs (Intel CoreDuo Based Macs) to run Windows XP SP2. Personally, I only do this because original Mac games are few and pricey compared to the selection on the PC. But that's pretty much it. Everything else, I use OS X.

Any FUD regarding Bootcamp is being spread by users who are either too naive or just too smart to nitpick. I just downloaded the BootCamp from the Apple website and actually RTFM so I didn't have any issues.

Good Luck.

boy, am i confused:RedEye: hehe, will keep reading the exchanges on this thread to help me make a decision down the road:Grin:

hi dave,

thanks for the info. as my need will be switching from OS X to windows when it is work related and from windows to OS X for photography, is it cumbersome or simple?

thank you

Paul,

Think of the MacBook/MacBook Pro as a full-fledged Windows machine via Boot Camp, so all applications written for the PC should work.

If you need to conveniently run Mac and Windows software without having to log out then you need Parralels Desktop. (http://parallels.com/en/products/desktop/) It lets you run Windows on top of OS X. But expect performance to run faster under Boot Camp because OS X is not running in the background.

Switching between Windows and Mac OSX couldn't be made simpler, (http://www.apple.com/macosx/bootcamp/) just press the option key upon startup.

Reselling won't be a problem. There are many would-be switchers out there who are willing to buy second hand just to buy a Mac :Grin:

thanks for the advice lester. so if i get your correctly, between macbook and pc, for photography and CS2, Macbook will be better and I can run windows in parrellel with OS X. but if i want to use boot camp, in order to get to windows from OS X, i would need to log out and press the control key upon start up?

when in windows, the macbook as a machine will run like a PC platform via Bootcamp?

thats a good mix if i saw one.

thanks for the input.

definitely MAC book is best for image quality ;) new mac in black looks so sexxxy! :D is Toshiba tablet PC worth buying?

Hi Cheri,

i was looking at the portege also. now my choices are d420 of dell and the black macbook. still soul searching on the two.

why buy a mac and run a windows xp on it? price per spec. i belive pc is still on the advantage (if your a budget conscious). third party applications? again Pc is the clear winner now with mac running on intel base, how long do you think before somebody figures it out to run a mac on pc? Buy a mac because its a mac, coz its cool and sexy, i hope i have that luxury.

i chose mac for it's software/hardware integration -- like nick said, CS2 for mactels isn't Universal yet (not integrated for Intel) so we will have to wait :D

why buy a mac and run a windows xp on it?

because the new mac notebooks can do it at practically no cost disadvantage, see earlier comparison between macbook and dell

price per spec. i belive pc is still on the advantage (if your a budget conscious).

that's the conventional wisdom, compare the windows notebooks with the macbook line and and see for yourself

third party applications? again Pc is the clear winner now with mac running on intel base,

with windows in the mac's list of OS, the mac runs MORE apps now because it can run windows and mac osx apps

how long do you think before somebody figures it out to run a mac on pc? Buy a mac because its a mac, coz its cool and sexy, i hope i have that luxury.

but the macbook does the same thing NOW and it does not cost more specially if you consider the bundled software (iPhoto is a complete digital photoworkflow with RAW capability built-in)

hi bert and eugene,

actually the pricepoint of the mac has lowered compared to the PC which is why im looking at the mac now.

to be very specific, hardware wise, is the macbook (black) more superior than the pc? even though the specs are almost the same?

software wise, after the replies in this thread, will windows running on bootcamp in a mac be the same as running it in a pc?

since the macbook is running on bootcamp, wouldnt CS2 for windows be ok?

if thats the case, the reason why i will be getting the mac is for the screen resolution but basically run it like a pc because its now cheaper than the laptops im looking at.

its strange to come to this choice. Running the Macbook on windows for the apps and CS2 because of the screen resolution and the hardware (if it is more superio) as the price of the black macbook is lower than the asus, dell, fujitsu or toshiba.

your thoughts on this would be appreciated greatly.

thank you

since

hands down, mac!

trust us when we say, once you've gone mac, you'll never look back!!!

ok din. ill take your word on that. S C A R Y.....

Paul,

the Dell 700m/710m perfectly fits your requirements. I think it's under 70t now.

if you want to splurge on a 12" with an independent graphics card, check the Dell m1210.

Cheers.

hi paul,

to respond to your queries:

yes the macbook is now cheaper than many windows notebooks

hardware wise, is the macbook (black) more superior than the pc? even though the specs are almost the same?
Macs have always been superior because they are built not to compete directly with lowend windows machines. Thus they last longer and are built better and the design is the one that's likely to be copied by windows machines. Since the processors are now similar, the windows machines have lost their processor speed advantage.

software wise, after the replies in this thread, will windows running on bootcamp in a mac be the same as running it in a pc?
Yes.

since the macbook is running on bootcamp, wouldnt CS2 for windows be ok?
Yes if that's the version you have.

If the above and screen resolution are your reasons now, you will find out later that macs are macs because of the integration of hardware and software. To me, macs have always been more than the sum of its parts--that is why most who switch never look back. Finally, most mac users I know have used windows as well. That's why when you get the opinion of mac users they probably know where you're coming from.

Good luck on your choice, no matter what it will finally be.

thanks very much bert. i hope our discussions have also assisted other members of the forum.

I use in ibook in an office where everybody (as in more than 300 users all use PC) and i have no problems with compatability or any documents.

hi. this forum is very insightful. im planning of getting a new notebook and i've been thinking real hard if i should get a macbook or a windows based notebook.. im just a hobbyist and money is a real big concern as well. uhmm..if i decide to get a macbook, where do u suggest i get it? preferably those with 12 months installment plan 0%, hehe..

im leaning towards getting a macbook but is also considering getting a dell xps 1210..i've been reviewing the specs on their websites and both look real good. one more thing, why are the prices in the States cheaper than what we have here?

Hi Vanessa, prices in the Phils would definitely be a bit higher than US retail prices because the items here are taxed (import and other custom taxes). THe prices you usually see in Apple Store website - say for example the Macbook at $1099 is still subject to sales tax (depends on which state you bought the item)

I hear Accent Micro is selling the Macbook on installment, you might want to check that out.

hi. this forum is very insightful. im planning of getting a new notebook and i've been thinking real hard if i should get a macbook or a windows based notebook.. im just a hobbyist and money is a real big concern as well. uhmm..if i decide to get a macbook, where do u suggest i get it? preferably those with 12 months installment plan 0%, hehe..

im leaning towards getting a macbook but is also considering getting a dell xps 1210..i've been reviewing the specs on their websites and both look real good. one more thing, why are the prices in the States cheaper than what we have here?

vat, taxes and dealer's margin Vannesa...:)

hi all,

after having pored on so many reviews, hands on tests, the price point and most especially the suggestions on the forum. im going for the black macbook. cant wait to explore a new world!

hi all,

after having pored on so many reviews, hands on tests, the price point and most especially the suggestions on the forum. im going for the black macbook. cant wait to explore a new world!

Congratulations!

am sure the you will not regret decision to purchase the macbook :)
and if you do i suggest you join a forum to help you with your queries
on the mac... try philmug (http://www.philmug.ph)

Congratulations! Glad you made the switch :)

hi all,

after having pored on so many reviews, hands on tests, the price point and most especially the suggestions on the forum. im going for the black macbook. cant wait to explore a new world!

Congrats Paul! Yup, as Anton said, we'll be happy to help you out on www.philmug.ph!

get a MAC!!! dont ever spend another cent on a windows based PC/Laptop.!!!

advance congratulations to you, paul!!!!

i knew you'd take my advice... hehehehehe...

thanks for the congrats guys. it was dindins sexy comment that made me switch. he he.

@paul

what sexy comment? so curious...

dindin's cheaper :D

@dexter

thanks for the heads up... but selling is not encouraged here... and i'm more than willing to comply...

@wlee

better change your handle/id to your name before you get a warning from the mods... plus, selling is not encouraged here... FYI lang po...

@wlee

better change your handle/id to your name before you get a warning from the mods... plus, selling is not encouraged here... FYI lang po...

He won't get a free mag too?:Grin:

whups dindin. sorry, it was cheri who said it was (the black macbook) was so sexxxy. he he sorry mixed up the posts there. my apologies

great thread and great discussion. how i wished i'd have bought the macbook but unfortunately didn't because of 2 main reasons. (even if the macs do have the advantage because of its tight sw-hw integration even if the base hw components are the same with pc counterparts) first reason is that i'm sharing it with my daughter who's being taught windows apps and bits of programming in school and major reason is that the cad app i'm using doesn't have any mac version.... this one really nailed it even if i was already bent on purchasing the macbook. bootcamp you might say.... nah... you lose out on the main advantage above.
still happy with the purchase though.

oh... i got a compaq presario b2815tx... an ibook look-alike if i may say so. haha

I was all psyched and ready to purchase the black macbook but when I had a look at the Glorietta the other week during the BPI madness sale, changed my mind. I don't know how you feel about the glossy screen for critical editing. For some reason it didn't look right. The detail in the Macbook Pro looked much much better. Opinions anyone?

@Nick,

Like most things Apple. It's either you live with it or wait for the next model. In as much as I would want a MacBook Pro too, it's just too late in the game for me. The WWDC (it's like a Apple Convention) is just too near and if they announce a new product, I would kick myself in the head for buying one now when my current Mac is still running a-ok for my needs.

When buying Macs, there's a mantra we all sing by;

"If you need it (a Mac) now, buy it now. If you can wait, wait."

@manny

As to the 'Windows thing'

You actually have 2 ways to have your cake and eat it too..

1. Using Apple's own Boot Camp (http://www.apple.com/macosx/bootcamp/) which allows you to boot Windows on a separate partition.

2. Using Parallels (http://www.parallels.com/en/products/workstation/mac/) which is a commercial program that allows you to run virtually any intel Operating system within OS X. It's interesting to note that since OS X and Windows both run natively using intel processors, the speed of the Virtual machine is quite fast.

http://www.parallels.com/files/upload/desktop_1.gif

Parallels is a sneak peak of what is to come with OS X 10.5 (Leopard).

"If you need it (a Mac) now, buy it now. If you can wait, wait."

And a friendly note to everyone: NEED is not synonymous to WANT. ;-)

I was all psyched and ready to purchase the black macbook but when I had a look at the Glorietta the other week during the BPI madness sale, changed my mind. I don't know how you feel about the glossy screen for critical editing. For some reason it didn't look right. The detail in the Macbook Pro looked much much better. Opinions anyone?

At first, I thought the glossy screen to be a major turn-off. But when I tinkered around with my friend's MacBook, I realized that it is not irritating to the eyes when the screen is on... no glares. It is only glare-friendly when it's on sleep mode or closed.

Din2

Conclusion: I'm interested in buying a black MacBook... but not now... I just wish they didn't remove the tel/modem port. Macs and cams can really make one go nuts!!!

Macs and cams can really make one go nuts!!!
thanks to you i'm going nuts right now! :RedEye: hehehe!

Please considered yourself pre-warned if you're switching. There's no turning back. :lol

@Nick,

Like most things Apple. It's either you live with it or wait for the next model. In as much as I would want a MacBook Pro too, it's just too late in the game for me. The WWDC (it's like a Apple Convention) is just too near and if they announce a new product, I would kick myself in the head for buying one now when my current Mac is still running a-ok for my needs.

When buying Macs, there's a mantra we all sing by;

"If you need it (a Mac) now, buy it now. If you can wait, wait."

@manny

As to the 'Windows thing'

You actually have 2 ways to have your cake and eat it too..

1. Using Apple's own Boot Camp (http://www.apple.com/macosx/bootcamp/) which allows you to boot Windows on a separate partition.

2. Using Parallels (http://www.parallels.com/en/products/workstation/mac/) which is a commercial program that allows you to run virtually any intel Operating system within OS X. It's interesting to note that since OS X and Windows both run natively using intel processors, the speed of the Virtual machine is quite fast.

http://www.parallels.com/files/upload/desktop_1.gif

Parallels is a sneak peak of what is to come with OS X 10.5 (Leopard).

@dave...
wow! now that's interesting, if only i knew that before the purchase. oh well, i'll get there sometime. hopefully sooner. thanks for the info.

Please considered yourself pre-warned if you're switching. There's no turning back. :lol

true enough! :) when i bought my powerbook i said to myself "what am i doing?! this machine is totally alien to me!" but after i got to know how to use (Mac OS X) and go about it, i dont regret it!! and as they say, it just works!! :D

hi guys

i got it! its here and im loving it!

thanks for all your advise on the laptop

hi. how about this one..

Toshiba Sat A80-P440 - PHP 49,995
CPU:
Intel Centrino Mobile Technology
Intel Pentium M processor 740 (1.73GHz, 533MHz FSB, 2MB L2 Cache)
Intel 915PM Express chipset
Memory:
256MB
Hard Drive:
40GB
Floppy Disk Drive:
None
Optical Drive:
DVD SuperMulti Drive (Double Layer)
Display Size:
15.0" TFT with Clear SuperView Technology
Graphics:
ATI MOBILITY RADEON® X300 w/64MB VRAM
I/O Ports:
6-in-1 card reader
FIR
IEEE 1394
4x USB
Communications:
Bluetooth
Wireless LAN 802.11G
Audio:
harman/kardon speakers

but the down side-its quite heavy, well..if you could buy one thats light, cheap & power packed then advice me too. you may compromise some "features" for other things you like in your pc.

You'll need to increase the RAM if you want to have any chance of working properly with layered files in Photoshop. Minimum now should be at least 1GB.

like nick said, RAM must be at least 1GB. if you could max it out already, that would be great.

macbook is great! thinking of having one.

i'm using a g4 sayang nga lang di ko panamamaximize ang gamit coz i'm still learning ps,,, you guys know of photoshop workshop? :(

Have a Macbook 2ghz with 2 gig RAM. Works fast for me.

Mac Donald's

I bought a black Macbook a week or so ago at Apple Center. My only disappointment is the limitation to two partitions for dual booth.

I wanted 3: one for Mac OS; the other for windows XP; and the third for my files. They can only create two partitions the most :(

Though more costly, the Mac offers a much better support anywhere in the world.

my cousin just bought a Dell 12" Core Duo notebook, 65K in all. I just don't know the exact specs and model :D

I'd go for the MIB! :D (Macbook in Black)

Dell is a good choice :D you can customize pa...but i'm still a MAC believer...even if....my company will kill me if they see this post.

a black macbook.

i second this! can run 3 OSes (i.e. Linux, MAc OSX and Win XP):)

I'm generally happy with the MAC OS, but not happy with the macbook build.

The keyboard area discolored and cracked within a few months - Apple replaced the top cover under warranty. Then the ethernet card caused frequent and abrupt shutdowns, and now the fans don't work. Not sure if all this is related though.

That's not mentioning you can NOT use the macbook on your lap since it's like a hotplate. You can't even use it on a couch/bed/soft surface since it heats up even more quickly. Then you also have an acrylic surface that scratches easily.

Aside from the nice presentation softwares on the MAC that i'm going to miss, I'm tempted to go back to PC using the XP.

With the Plethora of USB devices, i don't know why the macbook/Pros only has 2 USB slots. The IBM's has 3USB slots. THe latter even has PCMCIA slots to allows We roam internet connections.

It's not very impressive to show the mac around especially to clients if you have a discolored keyboard. It's like you don't even know how to clean your laptop.

Regarding viruses: it's true that the mac is more immune to viruses, but in practice the macs are unknowing entry points for a lot of viruses that affects PC's especially on a network. There was a time i was sending out viruses, left and right without knowing or being affected myself.

My brother's thinkpad T60 on the other hand operates much cooler, the thinkpad keyboard seems much better. 3 year international warranty. Not a whole lot of glitz here but it seems the Lenovo thinkpad is designed and built much better. And it runs the hackintosh version of the MAC OS too.

I dont' know if a macbook pro is any better, but based on what iv'e read, the heat is worse. A thinkpad running XP right now seems far more appealing than a macbook back once again for replacements/repairs.

hi enjoy,

wow, this is ceratainly rare. it's not common to hear or read complaints from mac users. i appreciate your honesty based on your own personal experience. thanks for the head's up!

BTW, if you're thinking of going back to PC laptop, i just want to warn you that most (if not all) of the newer model DON'T have the PCMCIA slots anymore. this is a huge problem to my friends who just recently bought new laptops only to find out they can't use their WeRoam service on it.

and i thought mac has already fixed the heat issue.. i have a 2 yr old powerbook, so far no prob with the keyboard.. but honestly as tempting as a mac can be, my next purchase would not be another mac..
my main reason would be software compatibility..

I don't have a macbook, I use a powerbook G4, so far it looks fine (looks new actually). I take care of it and I always clean the keyboard and the aluminum skin. It's been with me for 3 years now and I wouldn't trade it for a brand new PC. :)

@enjoy

do you have the past or current (core 2 duo) model? if the former, yes it has the random shutdown issue though mac retail stores can fix this for free. it is an issue i think with the inverter board which mac will replace no questions asked.

for the build, well the matte finish do have some issues. i bought protective covers and all is well.

and the heat issue...well this is one gripe that i hate about my mac as well. though there are accessories that you can use that will elevate your unit to avoid contact with your skin.

eitherway, sorry to hear your issues with your macbook. i have one but i am 100% happy and satisfied.

I have an Ibook and im really happy with it. Its been abused and I dont have any heat issues..in fact it doesnt get hot at all. On the other hand my Sony VAIO laptop gets really really hot...:)

Laptops that are equipped my Pentium M's or Core 2 Duo have auto-throttle feature that reduce the speed of the microprocessor when not needed (i.e. word processing or surfing). It throlles up when you do rendering, picture editing, games, video or similar tasks.

The current MacBooks that use Core 2 Duo have lesser heat compared to previous versions (pre-intel CPU).

my macbook was the 1st version of dual core.
yes, i heard the core 2 duo is a bit cooler.

Once the fans go the temps sky rocket even while just surfing. I was using a laptop cooler so i didn't notice the fans has stopped, i just thought the cooler was soo effective the laptop's fans don't even have to come on.

Without the cooler, i noticed it getting uncomfortably hot, I then installed SMC fan control in the hopes to make the fans go faster, only then did i realized the fans were not responding, the fans were not running at all, 000 rpm. It was close to 80 deg C by then.

sorry to hear about your problems with the macbook e.g.

i recently upgraded from a pbook g4.

i'm currently waiting for the arsenal of external protectors for the macbook (seethru case, marware, etc.) i ordered as they are needed to keep it clean & pristine. i do have the C2D version and haven't really tried the 1st gen to compare the heat issues. so far, all's good and well on my side.

good luck! :D

i also have a macbook, i didnt have any discolored keyboard yet... i been using it for over a year now but within this year my logic board break down (which is covered by warranty) and two weeks ago my hard disk crash !!! w/o any sign or noice coming from the HD. now i just got my macbook w/ new hard disk but the apple service cannot mount my HD so they cannot make backup copy of my HD. I lost all my data and my last back is last Jan.

But im still happy w/ my mac and i never want to go back to PC again. I just didnt backup regularly.

...But im still happy w/ my mac and i never want to go back to PC again. I just didnt backup regularly.

How do you do your back-up?

I have a first-gen macbook that suffered the random shutdown syndrome three months after purchase. After a few more months using the "push-the-power-button-down-long" to boot it into safe, if degraded mode for it to be usable, I installed the SMC patch from the Apple website. This seems to have licked the problem (knock on wood).

As for the discoloration, the white Macbook still doesn't have it, but it's not really that heavily used.

im sorry about the experience, but i have a a great time with my macbook! and its white...though it gets dirty so fast still its white! hmmm...

man, the Thinkpad T series are very durable and tough. parang Nikon F5 :) besides it's belongs to the top of the Thinkpad series.

Machines with Core Duo processors are known to really be hot as compared to the Core 2 Duo brethren. This is for Macbook and the Macbook Pro as well. I've never had a Macbook but I've had and have iBooks, Powerbooks and MacBook Pro's (core duo and core 2 duo's). The MBP's are built better than the Macbook's though.

Also, when you're buying 1st generation hardware (may it be from a PC vendor of from a Mac), which your Macbook is, then you're bound to have issues with it. That's why some people say that you shouldn't buy them till the next revision(s). I personally have bought a few 1st gen Apple hardware and have been virtually free from problems. Except that is, for my 1st gen MBP (Core Duo). My MBP C2D is running fine.

Oh and to add, the MBP's (core duo) is about the same as your MB with regards to how hot it can get. The Core 2 Duo line is much cooler and you can use it on your lap (which is the same processor that the Lenovo T60 is using so you can't fairly compare it to your core duo macbook). With regards to virii, even if you can't be infected (for the time being anyway), you should still follow safe computing practices and still have AV software on your machine, to as you say, not spread the files to your colleagues or other people for that matter.

Just wanted to add though, that I still regard the Thinkpad T is best of breed, especially among business-class notebooks. I've had the opportunity to use a T42 and it was the best mix of size and performance.

Got my macbook back!
Took a while to rebuild everything since i had to reinstal everything.

THe culprit for the sudden shutdowns was the fan. It was so full of dirt that it was no longer moving. The fan was replaced and cleaned and now i'm a happy camper.

I was lucky enough that the fan failure, didn't allow the heat to cause permanent damage. The heat was the one causing the ethernet to behave erratically, thus casuing the computer to shutdown to prevent further damage.

Some words of advice:
1. IF your fan is not working, don't use your laptops anymore, bring it in for servicing.
2. Telltale signs that the fans are failing is slow RPMs (you need to install some software to check it).
3. Also if you notice that your computer is unusually slow, file transfers are slow, or starts to shutdown these are warning signs already that there possibly is an unusual heat build up.

Got my macbook back!
Took a while to rebuild everything since i had to reinstal everything.

THe culprit for the sudden shutdowns was the fan. It was so full of dirt that it was no longer moving. The fan was replaced and cleaned and now i'm a happy camper.

I was lucky enough that the fan failure, didn't allow the heat to cause permanent damage. The heat was the one causing the ethernet to behave erratically, thus casuing the computer to shutdown to prevent further damage.

Some words of advice:
1. IF your fan is not working, don't use your laptops anymore, bring it in for servicing.
2. Telltale signs that the fans are failing is slow RPMs (you need to install some software to check it).
3. Also if you notice that your computer is unusually slow, file transfers are slow, or starts to shutdown these are warning signs already that there possibly is an unusual heat build up.
I am sorry to hear about your macbook. I have the black one and so far no problems. Where can we download the software to check if the fans are working? Thanks.

How do you do your back-up?

unfortunately none!!! my last backup is June of 2006. all of my emails (1gb), photos (15gb) and some docs all gone :(

but i learn my lesson. now i'm making backup of photos and docs almost every 2 weeks. im still waiting for my external hd.

Got my macbook back!
Took a while to rebuild everything since i had to reinstal everything.

THe culprit for the sudden shutdowns was the fan. It was so full of dirt that it was no longer moving. The fan was replaced and cleaned and now i'm a happy camper.

I was lucky enough that the fan failure, didn't allow the heat to cause permanent damage. The heat was the one causing the ethernet to behave erratically, thus casuing the computer to shutdown to prevent further damage.

Some words of advice:
1. IF your fan is not working, don't use your laptops anymore, bring it in for servicing.
2. Telltale signs that the fans are failing is slow RPMs (you need to install some software to check it).
3. Also if you notice that your computer is unusually slow, file transfers are slow, or starts to shutdown these are warning signs already that there possibly is an unusual heat build up.

good for you fan lang. last year pati logic board ko nasira because of that. i was in usa pa when i experience random shut down syndrome.

I am sorry to hear about your macbook. I have the black one and so far no problems. Where can we download the software to check if the fans are working? Thanks.

There are many programs to check for fan speed and temperatures, including widgets of all sorts. istat is one of them etc.

I used SMC fan control, it allows me to spin the fans a little faster if i'm using it on my lap.
http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/23049

As long as the fan is not notieceably slower than the minimum 1450-1500. SHould it fall below 1300, you should be alarmed. Or if the fans become unusually "loud "which was the case before the fan gave out.

good for you fan lang. last year pati logic board ko nasira because of that. i was in usa pa when i experience random shut down syndrome.

My fan was so clogged with dust that when air was blown into it, all of the blades broke off.

Macbook Pro's have two fans i heard, which would mean a backup in case one of them breaksdown. In the case of macbooks if the fan breaks that's it. The heat generated especially during intense usage easily reaches past 100 deg C which is normal and not harmful. It is only when the heat is not removed that would cause all sorts of failures including graphics cards, networks cards, entire mother boards.

Incidentally, the fans of the gaphics cards also die. WHich has caused some macbook pro's to die as well. The fan of which i don't know if it could be monitored.

I'm generally happy with the MAC OS, but not happy with the macbook build.

The keyboard area discolored and cracked within a few months - Apple replaced the top cover under warranty. Then the ethernet card caused frequent and abrupt shutdowns, and now the fans don't work. Not sure if all this is related though.

That's not mentioning you can NOT use the macbook on your lap since it's like a hotplate. You can't even use it on a couch/bed/soft surface since it heats up even more quickly. Then you also have an acrylic surface that scratches easily.

Aside from the nice presentation softwares on the MAC that i'm going to miss, I'm tempted to go back to PC using the XP.

With the Plethora of USB devices, i don't know why the macbook/Pros only has 2 USB slots. The IBM's has 3USB slots. THe latter even has PCMCIA slots to allows We roam internet connections.

It's not very impressive to show the mac around especially to clients if you have a discolored keyboard. It's like you don't even know how to clean your laptop.

Regarding viruses: it's true that the mac is more immune to viruses, but in practice the macs are unknowing entry points for a lot of viruses that affects PC's especially on a network. There was a time i was sending out viruses, left and right without knowing or being affected myself.

My brother's thinkpad T60 on the other hand operates much cooler, the thinkpad keyboard seems much better. 3 year international warranty. Not a whole lot of glitz here but it seems the Lenovo thinkpad is designed and built much better. And it runs the hackintosh version of the MAC OS too.

I dont' know if a macbook pro is any better, but based on what iv'e read, the heat is worse. A thinkpad running XP right now seems far more appealing than a macbook back once again for replacements/repairs.

I dont agree with you except for the hotplate thing. Mac is not for everyone.

just a question how much ung macbook 13" black 2.16ghz and ung white na 2.0ghz sa hong kong? where would be the best shop to get one? meron ba international warranty un?

@ Lemuel

I don't know the prices of a Macbook in HK. But Mac portables (i.e. laptops, iPods) automatically come with an international warranty.

@ Enjoy

I'm currently using a Macbook Pro. Yup, I can feel the heat a bit :D

Cheers!

Jo Avila

ok ok. heres the big question for me now. is it worth it? im using a 350d and ill be damned sometimes at how small the lcd is and i cant see how the shot went talaga.

To be quite honest, i am a computer geek. :Grin:
but even so, i have always hated laptops. why? because i cant tweak them like my desktop! you can never change the "core specs" (motherboard to be specific)
aslo, the value of laptops go down so fast!
if you are familiar with the site TPC or tipidpc, you will see my username "lordseph" as one of the most active participants in the forums. Computers has been my addiction until that fateful day that i shot my first picture with a DSLR...:)

so anyway, sometimes, when im away from alabang (where my "beast" desktop is), i am unable to view my pics properly on a big screen.

so now the question is. how many photographers here, use laptops? is it worth it? or should i just go for those small hdd carrying LCD view picture thingamajiggie's?

help!

Is there a need or urgency for the laptop? Do you have the extra bread for it? Can't you wait to view your pics at home vs. viewing it in your camera LCD, or to a slightly bigger portable storage bin's LCD, or the LCD of a laptop? Will buying a laptop change your workflow? And so on...

I hope the barrage of questions help in your decision... In the end, it's only you who can decide... :) Maybe... Perhaps, you just need a push... Well so, if that's the case then get one indeed!! :) It will be a great help... It's like having a condom... :Grin: "Better have it and not use it; than need it and not have one!!" :) HTH.

everytime i go on photo assignment(paid projects) i directly connect my camera to my laptop for the clients to view in a larger screen.:)

I bring a laptop to some shoots because the client needs a display bigger than the LCD of my camera to approve the shots. I also have to burn a CD or DVD right after some shoots.

I bring a laptop to weddings so that I can download all of my shots just to have a back up copy and have a little peace of mind.

I don't bring my laptop if its just a personal shoot :D

Cheers!

Jo Avila

if you will get rackets regularly that will require you to bring a laptop, then why not? but if you just want to see your images larger that your camera LCD, you may ask clients to have a TV monitor during shoots as well. I think a portable back up like the epson P series that has 3. something size of a LCD would do the job, though the price is almost the same for laptops! hehehe...

I have a laptop (office issued) but I don't bring during shoot, it's heavy :D
and the 2.5" LCD is enough for a while to view my shots. It brings more excitement not seeing the large one, pictures are great in thumbnails you know, hahaha.

But if you do a shoot for a client and a client is with you, bring a laptop.

I do have a laptop but I don't bring it when I go out and shoot. Why? Hassle lang, you always have to check that it is secured. And I dont have a car.

Besides, that would be the true test of how sharp and keen your eyes, and how steady your hands are.

It always feels good that after the shoot, you go home, pop your memory card or your camera on your desktop and you are mesmerized how beautiful your shots turn out.

no... unless you have tons of clients :D

Just get a thingamajig :) I'm happy bringing just my Epson P2000 (super sulit lalo when I am away from home for days)..... yun nga lang .... If you are planning to join the Photoshop lessons at Bella Luce and you don't have a laptop - sorrrrry no can do kasi you have to have a laptop - HEhHEheHEehe :Grin:

Only you can really decide whether it is a big plus for you to get a laptop. Good luck with your decision :)

if money is not a problem please-ibigay ang hilig!!!!buy!!got a 17" laptop but i seldom bring it together w my cam and lenses.there's one i have to bring it along w my d2x,a backup cam s3pro and trinity lenses.it took me three days to recover.that was the last time bwahahaha.

well... if you feel like getting a laptop, you know 1.6 Ghz or 1.8 Ghz won't do to view those huge pixels saturated shots on the fly. :D, if money is not a problem then get that Alienware laptop whose specs are the envy of servers 3 years ago. he he he. :D

If you have the cash to spare, by all means, get one. However, I suggest you just get some kind of image tank or more memory cards to take with you when you travel.

I own a laptop but it's my primary computer. I take it with me when I travel but once I reach my destination, I just leave it at the hotel. I never take it with me on the field (my other gear weigh too much already) but then again, I've never been away from my laptop for more than 4-5 days and I have plenty of memory cards that I take with me.

i actually got my laptop before my dslr.. and with it, it's been more convenient when travelling. also, i think that it'd be better to examine your pics in a big screen before ending any particular shoot. it would be beneficial to you and you're subject/model/associate/etc. as well..

ako din mas nauna ang laptop kesa sa dslr. importante din ang laptop. madadala kahit saan :)

Laptop...it really depends if u really need one...but for me...i only do personal shots....no business shots...or just check on your Lcd...you can zoom it anyway to check if your shot is sharp..for me...i most of the time minimize my load to shoot freely....only the things i knew i would need...i'll just wait to be home then check the pics....Suspense kumbaga!...

i agree, and you actually get to learn.. remember those film days when you could only see your pics after having them developed.. when you'd have to wait to see what you have done wrong and try to improve the next time...:Grin: beats looking at the lcd after every shot or so..:D

Laptop...it really depends if u really need one...but for me...i only do personal shots....no business shots...or just check on your Lcd...you can zoom it anyway to check if your shot is sharp..for me...i most of the time minimize my load to shoot freely....only the things i knew i would need...i'll just wait to be home then check the pics....Suspense kumbaga!...

thanks so much for all your inputs!

actually, what i want to get into is portraiture... and also, i want to shoot in studios. that would mean i would need to see the immediate results... hmm

ill borrow a friends muna and see if the need to see the pictures is there right away in the studio.. :)

thanks so much for the inputs! keep em' coming please!

btw, to those who commented about bringing laptops to the field, that wont be me, because im not into landscaping or anything like that.. :)

oh yeah! it's worth it.

Joseph,

I'm in the same boat as you (Alfalfameister on TPC)... and I don't have a laptop. I like tweaking my computer, too (got a lot of my stuff from Woody-san). Also, nothing like the power of a desktop computer with high end video cards (useless for photoshop), 2 to 4 GB of RAM, Raptor drives, dual core (soon to be quad?) processors, etc...

If you're more a computer guy, it's really nicer to work (post process, etc) on a workstation -- i.e., desktop. The laptop is really more for portability.

Here's some stuff to confuse you more:

1. If you're thinking of getting a laptop solely for downloading your pics immediately (instant gratification of seeing it on a 14-17" screen), maybe it's not worth it, unless you're a pro who has to show it to clients;

2. If you can find OTHER uses for the laptop (i.e., bring it with you to the beach, so you can watch DVDs na rin, bring it to work, etc), then all of a sudden, the laptop looks feasible -- simply because it will be used for OTHER things.

In the end, of course, it's your choice, but I stuck to my desktop computer, but if I wanted to get a laptop, I'd probably get a low-end one (Celeron processor, or cheap Mac -- an oxymoron if I ever saw one). I'd still do the bulk processing (if any/needed) on my desktop.

Of course, being a computer geek, it's just SOOOO hard not to get tempted to get one with uber specs, heheh!

Joseph,

I'm in the same boat as you (Alfalfameister on TPC)... and I don't have a laptop. I like tweaking my computer, too (got a lot of my stuff from Woody-san). Also, nothing like the power of a desktop computer with high end video cards (useless for photoshop), 2 to 4 GB of RAM, Raptor drives, dual core (soon to be quad?) processors, etc...

If you're more a computer guy, it's really nicer to work (post process, etc) on a workstation -- i.e., desktop. The laptop is really more for portability.

Here's some stuff to confuse you more:

1. If you're thinking of getting a laptop solely for downloading your pics immediately (instant gratification of seeing it on a 14-17" screen), maybe it's not worth it, unless you're a pro who has to show it to clients;

2. If you can find OTHER uses for the laptop (i.e., bring it with you to the beach, so you can watch DVDs na rin, bring it to work, etc), then all of a sudden, the laptop looks feasible -- simply because it will be used for OTHER things.

In the end, of course, it's your choice, but I stuck to my desktop computer, but if I wanted to get a laptop, I'd probably get a low-end one (Celeron processor, or cheap Mac -- an oxymoron if I ever saw one). I'd still do the bulk processing (if any/needed) on my desktop.

Of course, being a computer geek, it's just SOOOO hard not to get tempted to get one with uber specs, heheh!


ey buddy!! youre here din pala... yeah, you understand my dilemma.. good points too! well, i guess since im starting out palang i have no "clients" yet, maybe i should just borrow nalang muna. my concern kasi is im gonna be heading off to one of the studios to practice with studio lighting and i want to see the results immediately.. you get what i mean? so i guess for now, ill borrow one muna.. :)

great to see another tpc'er here!

ey buddy!! youre here din pala... yeah, you understand my dilemma.. good points too! well, i guess since im starting out palang i have no "clients" yet, maybe i should just borrow nalang muna. my concern kasi is im gonna be heading off to one of the studios to practice with studio lighting and i want to see the results immediately.. you get what i mean? so i guess for now, ill borrow one muna.. :)

great to see another tpc'er here!
hey im also a tpc user (aldrichlim). If you do studio shots and want the result right away the cheapest way is to connect your cam to a tv:) the screen is bigger than normal laptop lcd's. even while shooting you can connect it, once you take a shot it will be displayed there right away:D

I never travel without my laptop. Its a must for me. Image tanks are not enough for me...I want to see the detail of the image BIG down to the pixel. I also love having wifi in my studio and home and sitting wherever i want when I log on to DPP:Grin:...

I noticed that the macbook is designed to have airflow through the keyboard as well. So if you have an iskin keyboard cover, temps can reach much higher than without it. Max temps with the iskin on is around 98 deg C, with the iskin off, it hovers around in the mid 80's, thats with both cores maxed out.

just a question how much ung macbook 13" black 2.16ghz and ung white na 2.0ghz sa hong kong? where would be the best shop to get one? meron ba international warranty un?

here are the prices for Apple products in HK

http://www.apple.com/hongkongstore/

I'm generally happy with the MAC OS, but not happy with the macbook build.

The keyboard area discolored and cracked within a few months - Apple replaced the top cover under warranty. Then the ethernet card caused frequent and abrupt shutdowns, and now the fans don't work. Not sure if all this is related though.

That's not mentioning you can NOT use the macbook on your lap since it's like a hotplate. You can't even use it on a couch/bed/soft surface since it heats up even more quickly. Then you also have an acrylic surface that scratches easily.

Aside from the nice presentation softwares on the MAC that i'm going to miss, I'm tempted to go back to PC using the XP.

With the Plethora of USB devices, i don't know why the macbook/Pros only has 2 USB slots. The IBM's has 3USB slots. THe latter even has PCMCIA slots to allows We roam internet connections.

It's not very impressive to show the mac around especially to clients if you have a discolored keyboard. It's like you don't even know how to clean your laptop.

Regarding viruses: it's true that the mac is more immune to viruses, but in practice the macs are unknowing entry points for a lot of viruses that affects PC's especially on a network. There was a time i was sending out viruses, left and right without knowing or being affected myself.

My brother's thinkpad T60 on the other hand operates much cooler, the thinkpad keyboard seems much better. 3 year international warranty. Not a whole lot of glitz here but it seems the Lenovo thinkpad is designed and built much better. And it runs the hackintosh version of the MAC OS too.

I dont' know if a macbook pro is any better, but based on what iv'e read, the heat is worse. A thinkpad running XP right now seems far more appealing than a macbook back once again for replacements/repairs.


Hi, is your Mac the Core Duo or the Core2Duo? I believe all these issues are addressed in the Core2Duo release (2nd Gen) MacBooks.

Wow This is indeed rare...

I have been using thinkpad laptops for more than 2 years now.. My other laptop was R50e I used it for two years no issues with hardware and heating. :) worked perfectly for me. Now I am using T60p and I dont have an Issue with it. Battery life, Key board and Build quality is superb.

Been using a 12' inch powerbook the last year and a half and it works just fine. Had an Ibook G4 before that. Brought the PB to a recent plane, train, bus and boat trip to Europe on a backpack and it has never failed me. With my point and shoot cam (Kodak), i would upload photos on the PB and edit some of them. And i could access wifi without any problems. I have a mccally screen protector, marware protector for the palm rest and the iskin for the keyboard. When heat builds up because of the iskin, i just take it off.

Don't know if this is allowed, but get your mac computers and stuff from this guy, Benedict Bueno. His prices are HK prices as he is based in HK. He is reliable. Ive bought a macbook for my daugter from him and a couple of Video Ipods for friends. All Apple products come with an international warranty. I recently got a 2 year extended warranty for my daugters macbook from him for P9,000. The cheapest locally is P9,800 in Ynzal.

Check his site at http://longbeard.info/longbeard%20testimonial/Home.html

Currently using an IBM X31, and a 12" PB. Build quality on both is excellent. IBMs (can't speak for Lenovo) are way more durable however... manily due to the choice of plastic (ABS vs acrylic) ... I used to have an R50, and a T-something prior to my going partial-Mac. IBMs are built for abuse, more so than Macs. Macbook plastic cracks easier than most (looks better than most too)... and aluminum MBPs dent easier than titanium lids on IBM Thinkpads.

But mind you, these are not reflections of poor build quality on Macs... just their choice in materials.

My PB handles Photoshop much better than my Thinkpad does... but my Thinkpad has a CF card reader built-in (I'm a Canon user)... and my X31 is almost half the weight of my 12"PB...so it's easier to lug around as well.

If you're looking to get a new laptop, I'd probably recommend the new Macbooks over the Lenovo Thinkpads... now that IBM doesn't make them anymore, I don't really know much about Lenovo's support system, or if they maintained IBM's build quality... not to mention IBM's R&D.

When I have the budget for it, I'm going to upgrade to the new Macbooks. :)

mac's also have the supposedly the best customer satisfaction in the world in computers because of their excellent warranty and customer service :) i read this somewhere about hmmm almost a year ago, and having dell at the bottom of the chart

if there's something wrong and it's still in warranty, almost always palit ng bago yan :) same thing for their ipods and other apple products. which is why their apple protection plan is a real good deal to me

Speaking from first hand experience, the new MBPs (with the Santa Rosa chipsets) run quite cool. The only time my MBP got even remotely warm, strangely enough, was when I was installing Windows XP Pro.

sarap to use aperture or aperture on the MBP sobra :)

I can attest on the build and quality of IBM laptops, been using my t40 for almost 3 years, mostly on for 24/7, and never had any problems. IBM support, same with Apple, is also excellent, especially the 3 years international warranty.

I never used a mac, but I very hear good things about it, especially from you guys :)

I've been a MacBook (Black Intel Core 2 Duo I upgraded to 2GB RAM) user for over a year now, although I still have my XP-ran IBM ThinkPad and Dell Inspiron for the software that aren't available on a Mac. And I'm talking about only a few I need.

Like you, I had an issue with just 2 USB ports, but then again, I learned to (lo and behold) make do once more. I use the firewire port instead for some gadgets.

It's true, my Mac's a heat machine, but I made do by using the sleeve (InCase) as the cushion. My keypad's not at all filthy, and I guess it's because I clean it often. And until now, I still get jealous stares every time I bring it out.

By the time Leopard comes out, I will buy a MacBook Pro just because I'm loving 'em Macs. Or anything Apple, for that matter. :)

Partick,

Whether you have decided to purchase a Thinkpad or a Mac, I would suggest you purchase the Belkin Coolpad which is now selling at around Php 1,500.00 from Ynzal Marketing. Prices of both computers have gone down already and you are now in the advantage point of enjoying good value for your money. Aside from customer service, you should also consider the technical support they provide, here in Asia, Lenovo is supported by a team in Libis Q.C., SM Mall of Asia and in Singapore. Both computers are good and it all boils down to preference and do remember that inside the motherboard is an Intel Processor. There shouldn't be a war betwen Macs and PCs since both are now made in China under US Quality-Control Supervision and Standards.

As my final advice, do try both computers before you decide and find out which is more user-friendly for you and would meet your work-flow and field-work requirements. Just my 2 cents.

The two brands have their strenghts and weaknesses. Whichever you buy, just be sure that it will do the job that you want done. That is the bottom line. Heat is always a problem and there are remedies for that like external cooling system under the laptop but still, it will not get rid of the heat to your satisfaction. Low temperature power supplies, that is without cooling fans, are very expensive and they are available only on very expensive laptops usually used by the US military. My take on this laptop isssue is not the heat but the screen of the laptop. If it is crystal clear and could be accurately calibrated to produce the same image on my printer, I am happy whatever brand it is. By the way, I use a toshiba and a fujitsu.

im switcher this year. last june, i bought a black macbook. so happy with it=) but i got really OC with the oil stains it gets becauze of the matte finish. thats all =) but i love the weight, size.. i can even put it in my backpack while biking =)

after a few months. i got a good deal. i bought a macbook pro 15inch. and i lived hapilly ever after



the best solution to take care of the laptop is to buy protective accesories like the crystal casing, iskin keybord protector and a trackpad film =) im sure your laptop will be safe and clean

mmm... so i'm guessing most photographers are mac users... any particular reason why prefer mac over pc with regards to photography? (i.e. software availability? processing power?)

Aside from build quality, MAC OS is really superior! My friend uses Tiger for all his old and new mac's and it can still run old software. I can't do the same with my old Window 98 software on XP and now Vista. So each time Gates' sneezes with a new Windows version, softwares need to be upgraded. And man, the legit upgrade is very expensive!

hi EVERYONE!

GOOD DAY!

I have been thinking things over in buying a laptop. My purpose then was for school and business, since i got it over with, i opted to make a decision based on how it will be beneficial for photography (media players and all)...

1. I'd like to ask what laptop do you recommend if within a 70k budget?
2. To mac or not to mac? why?
3. Other than photoshop, picasa or lightroom, can you suggest other softwares for photography?

thank you in advance :)


take care!


:)

you can have a macbook 2.4ghz white with that budget. and an upgraded memory up to 4gb and you're good to go. am using gimpshop since am just re-starting in the hobby.

70k..?

well...a mac is the way to go since there are alot of mac peeps here...

my bro got himself a macbook air, and its really fun to use [im a pc man]..

@ rowell and allan michael

tnx tnx! but what difference does it make as compared with non-mac notebook functions? :)

HI, Marley! I've been a PC user since the first laptops came out in the early 90's. Just got my first Macbook two weeks ago and I'm already an Apple devotee!!! Galing talaga!!!
You can even get it cheaper in Singapore or HK, I think? I got mine in NYC.

im a pc user ever since...but i'v always wondered wats up with a mac...and i'l probably get one when my new compaq retires (which i got for 59k last year..core2duo,1.5g ram, lightscribe)...which maybe 2-3years from now..yeah, im planning to abuse it...
from wat i'v observed, given the same specs, mac vs vista, mac will out-perform vista because of the lesser amount of ram being taken up by the OS...that being said, mac vs xp may go head to head on this one...
but my compaq does wat i want it to do...and thats whats important anyway..just remember to have ur monitor calibrated...because mac or pc, its useless if ur blindly editing...
why pc? basically because its cheaper...photoshop & lightroom are both available to windows, so theres no bias there...brands i'd go for, dell xps RED model line for the metal finish, compaq presario v3xxx and HP (highly recommended) for the scratch resistant coating, toshiba and acer for the price...upgrade ur ram, vista is a snail at 1g...

why a mac? faster than windows vista even with the same specifications.. some softwares unavailable to windows... macbook pro is the way to go..:D

for photography, i'd suggest getting a laptop with at least 14inch of brightview screen...makes editing easier that way...or u cud go for 12 or 13in...depends on u..hehe


other softwares..
acdsee pro 2 for managing ur pics, simple edits, batch tools, faster browser, and pretty much anything...
fotofusion/......an album designer..(dispensable, u cud do this in photoshop..but its a bit easier)
photostory .....(this is free to download from windows download center) -slideshow maker with automatic ken burns effect (this effect first came under apple...but has been copied quite effectively by vista---this option is present in photo gallery or media center)
photodex proshow gold or producer...slideshow creator also...can also be an alternative for movie making softwares..


there..hope this helps

rizel

Thanks, Rizel.

Since Vista is a memory hog and unstable, would Photoshop, Lightroom, etc. work well with XP? :)

vista's a headache to maintain. considering that i'm already running a pretty rigged up system already to begin with.

as for the laptop choice, a black macbook with 4GB ram should be more than enough for your needs.

Thanks, Rizel.

Since Vista is a memory hog and unstable, would Photoshop, Lightroom, etc. work well with XP? :)

i think so...i'v only tested photoshop cs3 on both vista and xp...although, if u can upgrade ur specs to 1.5gb ram, vista would almost perform like xp..:D the more ram the better ei? :D personally, i'd prefer vista over xp...some stuff are just a little bit easier...(for some people, hardly any difference)

@ rowell and allan michael

tnx tnx! but what difference does it make as compared with non-mac notebook functions? :)
Lots...if you are into photography, video editing, etc Mac is for you...if you are into games, go with Windows..:)

wouldnt it be better if your screen is greater than 15.4? vs. a 14 inch lcd?

At 70T, you can get the new black macbook, 2.5ghz C2D, 2 gig Ram, 250gig Hd, Bt, Apex, DL superdrive, Multitouch trackpad and is running on Penryn.

one thing to note when using windows: IF IT AINT BROKE, DONT FIX IT...system changes due to updates often cause problems than fixes..
that being said, if ur a performance freak and u hate tinkering with ur pc...go mac...a black mac (for the stains)...

wouldnt it be better if your screen is greater than 15.4? vs. a 14 inch lcd?

all the better ei? :Grin:
at least 14..if 21in of laptop is fine with the user, y not? hehehehe..:D

hmmmmmm laptops with dedicated video cards plus at least a min of 3gb of ram would do

why you need a dedicated video cards if you just plan to edit pictures? is this useful?

good point...for pictures, i think its enuf to use integrated cards..heck, i use integrated cards..prints come out the same, editing is about the same...performance wise, isnt dedicated cards directed towards video editing? and gaming?

why you need a dedicated video cards if you just plan to edit pictures? is this useful?

in previous versions of photoshop, you don't really need a dedicated video cards since what you are editing is in 2D. the video card plays no significant role during photoshop work.

this was true until photoshop cs3 extended came into the picture. now, extended enables you to edit 3D files therefore needing a dedicated video card for faster rendering.

the dedicated video card is much more geared towards gaming and 3D applications. photoshop uses your RAM more than the processor or the video card.

hth xoxo

so, sir nino...if the user has no intention of editing 3d files but intends to use cs3 for editing pics, then its perfectly ok to get a unit thats beefed up in ram and processor speed even with only an integrated card correct?:D

so, sir nino...if the user has no intention of editing 3d files but intends to use cs3 for editing pics, then its perfectly ok to get a unit thats beefed up in ram and processor speed even with only an integrated card correct?:D

yes, it's perfectly ok under such a condition. but if the user has the intention of playing 3D games on the laptop, the an integrated card won't cut it.

Question: Do U need to calibrate the LCD monitor of a NEWLY bought/ acquired laptop? Thanks:)

Thank you for this thread.

I am also planning to get my first ever laptop - be it Mac or PC.

My use would be to run the ff. applications for my photography and graphics and layout needs:

Photoshop CS3
Lightroom
InDesign CS to CS3
Illustrator CS to CS3
Acrobat

I am really intriqued with the recommendations about the Mac. However, may I know from the Mac Users, what are the accompanying applications included in the purchase of the unit?

When I get it Brandnew, I still have to buy separately the applications I mentioned, right?

Thanks for your inputs. :)

Question: Do U need to calibrate the LCD monitor of a NEWLY bought/ acquired laptop? Thanks:)

as any newly bought/acquired, whether second hand or brand new, calibration is needed. monitors are normally shipped "bluer" or "colder" than what it really is in actual life. so you'll see a blue cast on your monitor.

on top of that, brightness and contrast is way off without calibration.

Thank you for this thread.

I am also planning to get my first ever laptop - be it Mac or PC.

My use would be to run the ff. applications for my photography and graphics and layout needs:

Photoshop CS3
Lightroom
InDesign CS to CS3
Illustrator CS to CS3
Acrobat

I am really intriqued with the recommendations about the Mac. However, may I know from the Mac Users, what are the accompanying applications included in the purchase of the unit?

When I get it Brandnew, I still have to buy separately the applications I mentioned, right?

Thanks for your inputs. :)

it's the operating system that is center of all wonder in the mac. the applications (namely lightroom, indesign, photoshop, acrobat) is basically the same in windows or in the mac.

Question: Do U need to calibrate the LCD monitor of a NEWLY bought/ acquired laptop? Thanks:)

almost all laptops i came across with are shipped with 'cool' colors, meaning bluish and faint...calibration was needed..same goes to desktop lcd monitors...
duno with macs, but i think the same thing applies...

I am also planning to get my first ever laptop - be it Mac or PC.





jeruel, wedding photog ka right? i think u'l find the ken burns effect (present in mac and vista, not in xp) pretty handy if u plan to present ur photos during the reception..

as any newly bought/acquired, whether second hand or brand new, calibration is needed. monitors are normally shipped "bluer" or "colder" than what it really is in actual life. so you'll see a blue cast on your monitor.

on top of that, brightness and contrast is way off without calibration.

Thanks Nino...can I have my PC calibrated in your office?....for free???...hehehe.:Grin:I just bought a new laptop. Thanks

yes, if you are attending the workshop this weekend. besides, calibration is every three weeks.

yes, if you are attending the workshop this weekend. besides, calibration is every three weeks.

Ok....but I did not know about the workshop! Anyway I really like to have my new laptop calibrated and ask you to recommend to me a good and cheap or cost-effective laptop LCD calibartor. Is saturday PM ok with U? BTW, when and what time is the workshop?:)

jeruel, wedding photog ka right? i think u'l find the ken burns effect (present in mac and vista, not in xp) pretty handy if u plan to present ur photos during the reception..


Rizel,

Yes, I am a wedding photographer, but I shoot also other interesting subjects. Just today, I am inspired by the photos of Jay Jallorina and the rest of the landscape photographers he mentioned in his site.

I am not aware yet about the "ken burns effect" you just mentioned. I'll try to google it.

Thanks for that.

spyder2express :D hehehehehe you can get it at bella :D works for me :D

Ok....but I did not know about the workshop! Anyway I really like to have my new laptop calibrated and ask you to recommend to me a good and cheap or cost-effective laptop LCD calibartor. Is saturday PM ok with U? BTW, when and what time is the workshop?:)

9-5. Weekend. 4,500 pesos. As Spammy mentioned, the Spyder2Express.

9-5. Weekend. 4,500 pesos. As Spammy mentioned, the Spyder2Express.

Thanks again Nino...d U accept credit card? Does the Spyder 2 express comes with a free short seminar on how to use it?...hehehe:)

it's the operating system that is center of all wonder in the mac. the applications (namely lightroom, indesign, photoshop, acrobat) is basically the same in windows or in the mac.

Thanks for the reply, Nins. :)

it depends on your preference. you can edit your pictures in Mac or PC. efficiency is a keyword here. if you think you can be more efficient with a mac, then go for the mac.

Rizel,

Yes, I am a wedding photographer, but I shoot also other interesting subjects. Just today, I am inspired by the photos of Jay Jallorina and the rest of the landscape photographers he mentioned in his site.

I am not aware yet about the "ken burns effect" you just mentioned. I'll try to google it.

Thanks for that.


its the simple yet elegant pan and zoom effect for presenting slideshows..great for wedding avps..:D

heres a sample from Ulead: http://youtube.com/watch?v=zRWhrUcJLCQ&feature=related
the one prebuilt in mac and vista are way better than this though..

@ Rizel,

Thanks, got it. I've been impressed with the effect ever since, and wondered how it was done. So, Mac has it and Vista only, huh! Great!

@ Rizel,

Thanks, got it. I've been impressed with the effect ever since, and wondered how it was done. So, Mac has it and Vista only, huh! Great!

sir, pwde din ata sa xp...its free from windows download center...but its not prebuilt in the photo gallery, meaning u have to render it into a wmv file (or avi i think) before u can view it...) if ur interested, i can PM you for the link...:D

i think one of the selling points of Mac laptops is their LCDs. they're really different from the others and it's an advantage when you're post-processing photos.

yes, it's perfectly ok under such a condition. but if the user has the intention of playing 3D games on the laptop, the an integrated card won't cut it.

yep, this is true based on my experience... have an 256mb integrated video card and it sucks on HELL GATE and Company of Heroes...:(

At 70T, you can get the new black macbook, 2.5ghz C2D, 2 gig Ram, 250gig Hd, Bt, Apex, DL superdrive, Multitouch trackpad and is running on Penryn.

From where you can get Macbook at this price? HK or Manila?

From where you can get Macbook at this price? HK or Manila?

i believe that's manila price... in HK i think you can get it around 55k if i'm not mistaken.


for the thread starter.. go mac. :)

maraming tao pinasaya na nito. (translation: we are happy mac users. :Grin: )

Thanks again Nino...d U accept credit card? Does the Spyder 2 express comes with a free short seminar on how to use it?...hehehe:)

cheque or cash. and yes, we'll teach you how.

yep, this is true based on my experience... have an 256mb integrated video card and it sucks on HELL GATE and Company of Heroes...:(

true. DX10 games won't run efficiently on integrated cards.

From where you can get Macbook at this price? HK or Manila?

this is manila price. this the price at authorized apple dealers such as powermac in greenbelt. :Grin:

cheque or cash. and yes, we'll teach you how.
Thanks Nino:)

this is manila price. this the price at authorized apple dealers such as powermac in greenbelt. :Grin:

Too bad...Power Mac outlets does not have 12 months 0% interest on their Macs:(...unlike the other brand ( Acer and Toshiba offers 12 mos 0 % interest:) )

Too bad...Power Mac outlets does not have 12 months 0% interest on their Macs:(...unlike the other brand ( Acer and Toshiba offers 12 mos 0 % interest:) )

diego - you can check villman, i think they still have the 12 mos 0% interest on their macbooks. you can check any villman outlet, or check out their website.

diego - you can check villman, i think they still have the 12 mos 0% interest on their macbooks. you can check any villman outlet, or check out their website.
thanks Spam:)

Too bad...Power Mac outlets does not have 12 months 0% interest on their Macs:(...unlike the other brand ( Acer and Toshiba offers 12 mos 0 % interest:) )

actually they have sir. try to go to iStudio they have 4 branches i guess.

there's one in Greenhills V-Mall, Shangri-la, Gateway and in bonifacio high street (this one is under renovation)

last time i went there, i saw that they are offering 12months 0% interest.. i think Power Mac Center (MOA) has this schemes also.

super thanks to all who responded. your inputs are well-appreciated! :) cheers!

last time i went there, i saw that they are offering 12months 0% interest.. i think Power Mac Center (MOA) has this schemes also.

I was at Power MAC - MOA 2 days ago ( to service my Ipod Nano). They don't have the 12 mos 0 % interest on their Macbook Pro:(

i believe that's manila price... in HK i think you can get it around 55k if i'm not mistaken.


for the thread starter.. go mac. :)

maraming tao pinasaya na nito. (translation: we are happy mac users. :Grin: )


mac-mark fanatic, ah!
Is it just 55k in hk? i checked online, the black macbook is a little higher... :Grin:

@ Rizel Oliver Jimenez

thank you very much for your thorough explanation on all of my queries :)

HI, Marley! I've been a PC user since the first laptops came out in the early 90's. Just got my first Macbook two weeks ago and I'm already an Apple devotee!!! Galing talaga!!!
You can even get it cheaper in Singapore or HK, I think? I got mine in NYC.

wah! tnx sir aly :)

Mac all the way. Why? You have the best OS (faster than windows)! Clearly no hanging time and virus! And lastly, Apple has the best after sales support!

you won't go wrong with a Mac :)

@ Rizel Oliver Jimenez

thank you very much for your thorough explanation on all of my queries :)

ur welcome..:D do let us know about wat u end up getting..hehe

@Marley,

Thank you for this thread. I learned more than the idea of which one to buy, Mac or PC.

@Rizel,

I am thankful for you, bro. :)

OT: By the way, I successfully uploaded the avp in YouTube. I took the long route of burning it into a CD using Nero, thus making a .dat file. However, it greatly increase the file size from 6MB to 32MB. It is now live!

Here's the Link! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnkWhS7bh6w)

you're welcome marley, so many has responded already, hope they already answered your question. You can visit philmug.ph for anything about mac questions. Some members here are also in that forum just like me.:Grin:
Peace.
@ rowell and allan michael

tnx tnx! but what difference does it make as compared with non-mac notebook functions? :)

@Marley,

Thank you for this thread. I learned more than the idea of which one to buy, Mac or PC.

@Rizel,

I am thankful for you, bro. :)

OT: By the way, I successfully uploaded the avp in YouTube. I took the long route of burning it into a CD using Nero, thus making a .dat file. However, it greatly increase the file size from 6MB to 32MB. It is now live!

Here's the Link! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnkWhS7bh6w)

oi! great news! hehehehe...thanx for the tip..:D

@Marley,

Thank you for this thread. I learned more than the idea of which one to buy, Mac or PC.

@Rizel,

I am thankful for you, bro. :)

OT: By the way, I successfully uploaded the avp in YouTube. I took the long route of burning it into a CD using Nero, thus making a .dat file. However, it greatly increase the file size from 6MB to 32MB. It is now live!

Here's the Link! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnkWhS7bh6w)

***really glad that it's become beneficial for you too. Let's give the credits to everyone who responded. :) cheers!:)

ur welcome..:D do let us know about wat u end up getting..hehe

will do so, rizel...
"to mac or not to mac, that is the question.."
:) hehehe

exactly!! go for mac! macbook pro rules!


Mac all the way. Why? You have the best OS (faster than windows)! Clearly no hanging time and virus! And lastly, Apple has the best after sales support!

you won't go wrong with a Mac :)

mac is the way... you'll never go wrong with it.

Just wondering... where can you buy an original (or bootleg version) of CS3 for Mac here in Manila and for how much?

You may purchase original CS3 mac software from Ynzal Marketing.

www.ynzal.com

Cheers!

Jo Avila

Can you recommend a shop in HongKong where I can get the MACBOOK at a cheaper rate compared to Manila.

Thanks

the fact that xp is still very popular shows it's a good product! and i was generally happy with xp. The problem is the viruses, you never know when you're going to get them.
And if you install a norton anti virus, it just slows everything to a crawl. SO far i've been trying kaspersky and it doesn't slow it down as much. Factor in the cost of a yearly virus subscription and the costs adds up.

Get the mac.

Can you recommend a shop in HongKong where I can get the MACBOOK at a cheaper rate compared to Manila.

Thanks

as far as i know, the price for the macbook in hong kong is standardized.. They charge the same if you buy it from a store or online. AND IMO, it's better to be safe than sorry. So I guess, MAC CENTER is the way to go. Anyway, just by purchasing it from hong kong instead of here, saves you money already. Hope this helps...

happy shopping! :)

buying here or from hong kong or from any other place in the world wouldn't matter. i did buy mine in hk. mac's have a standard 1year global warranty. and yes, they do accept the warranty claims even if you bought your mac outside the country.

as far as i know, the price for the macbook in hong kong is standardized.. They charge the same if you buy it from a store or online. AND IMO, it's better to be safe than sorry. So I guess, MAC CENTER is the way to go. Anyway, just by purchasing it from hong kong instead of here, saves you money already. Hope this helps...

happy shopping! :)

windows users: virus issues? use deep freeze by faronics...no, its not an antivirus....its really something...=) hehehe

I was at Power MAC - MOA 2 days ago ( to service my Ipod Nano). They don't have the 12 mos 0 % interest on their Macbook Pro:(

sorry sir for the wrong info.. i check their flier again.. they offer 0% interest only on the iPods.

try iStudio sir.. just check their flier too.. and they have it in 0% interest.

ur welcome..:D do let us know about wat u end up getting..hehe

MACBOOK it is :) just got mine today... :)

how about u?

guys/gals need your help :(

please recommend a 30k budget laptop, that can

Edit pictures using photoshop CS2 or CS3 while browsing internet
and playing some mp3's :)

please include brand and specs ... 13" screen will do

thank you very much :)

not so sure about that budget but you could try "Neo".. they have decent notebooks naman

thanks chard, i think neo have the cheapest price :), any specs do you recommend ? :)

i know ranging from 30k-40k yung high end na ng Neo eh, so maganda na un.. unless you want to buy their tablet notebook.. i think they have a website so try to search dun.. take advantage now kse alam ko dami prices ng notebooks na nagbabaan sa malls ngyn..

i know ranging from 30k-40k yung high end na ng Neo eh, so maganda na un.. unless you want to buy their tablet notebook.. i think they have a website so try to search dun.. take advantage now kse alam ko dami prices ng notebooks na nagbabaan sa malls ngyn..

thanks chard, wala bang problem sa neo brand :)

Hi Dennis,
looks like you will put the "challenge" into good use... good luck 'pre on your purchase (I'm sure you know what should be "inside" :-)
maykC

I suggest Asus X80NE

that i dont know dude, pero sbe naman nila ok naman daw.. if your willing to spend around 35k, i suggest to check out Dell Inspiron 1525.. maganda specs rin nya and marami rin designs, yun nga lng 15 inch sya pero its slim naman..

If you intend to use your notebook for PP using CS3 or other kinds of photo editing software...I suggest the following specs:

Intel Core 2 Duo or its equivalent
2 gigabyte of DDRam or its equivalent
15 inch LCD
DVD combo drive

I own a Dell 1420...so this works for me...and the one I got has the specs I mentioned.

Don't just look at the brand, you can go for a number of them, just make sure the specs are up to speed so you can edit photos easily, specially when you use RAW.

HTH

I used a Neo Laptop from a friend before. I am not pretty sure where the laptop was manufactured but some says its only here in the Philippines. If you have a 30K, I would suggest go for a branded laptops say HP, Dell, Asus, Acer. Based on my POV, since I already used a Neo, the GUI of the laptop itself is not that appealing than that of those well known laptop manufacturers. Well at least its like putting an investment on your hard earned cash. But don't be just fooled by brands, but rather look for the performance of the laptops itself.

Dennis, got mine for P29K
Compaq Presario C700 (http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/ph/en/ho/WF25a/321957-321957-3329742-89318-89318-3466274.html)
Intel® Pentium® dual core processor T2390
• 1.86 GHz, 1 MB L2 Cache, 533 MHz FSB
120 GB A Hard Disk Drive
1 MB DDR2 Memory (haggle for a free upgrade to 2MB)
15.4” WXGA High Definition BrightView Widescreen 1280 x 800
Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator X3100 up to 251MB Total Available Graphics Memory

It doesn't come it an OS, I had an XP retail CD. Also, since it's built for Vista, the shop will install your drivers for you. A small inconvenience, but runs CS2 well.

Shops in Greenhills have this, all at the same price. So you really have to haggle for the free memory upgrade.

Are you open to a desktop option?if yes,30k can get you a near high-end spec'd unit.for photoediting,RAM is essential,minimum of 1-2gb. 4gb is recommended for power users. Videoram is not very useful,unless you'll do games/3d design. Get a big hdd, 250gb and up. A fast powerful processor like core 2 duo. For monitor, 15" should be minimum,or you'll need to squint.

Hi Dennis,
looks like you will put the "challenge" into good use... good luck 'pre on your purchase (I'm sure you know what should be "inside" :-)
maykC

hehe :D thanks mayk .. (darn, im sched critique for nxt week) :( anyway whats your current NB ??

Toshiba? check out Gadget Grocery (http://www.gadgetgrocery.com/)

My sister who doesn't really care about laptops just got one for her birthday. BLUE around 30k from Villman.

that i dont know dude, pero sbe naman nila ok naman daw.. if your willing to spend around 35k, i suggest to check out Dell Inspiron 1525.. maganda specs rin nya and marami rin designs, yun nga lng 15 inch sya pero its slim naman..

thanks chard i will check it :)

ok i will add 5k for the budget :D

If you intend to use your notebook for PP using CS3 or other kinds of photo editing software...I suggest the following specs:

Intel Core 2 Duo or its equivalent
2 gigabyte of DDRam or its equivalent
15 inch LCD
DVD combo drive

I own a Dell 1420...so this works for me...and the one I got has the specs I mentioned.

Don't just look at the brand, you can go for a number of them, just make sure the specs are up to speed so you can edit photos easily, specially when you use RAW.

HTH

thanks rafi will check it also ... how much for this one ?
i prefer 13" only :)

I used a Neo Laptop from a friend before. I am not pretty sure where the laptop was manufactured but some says its only here in the Philippines. If you have a 30K, I would suggest go for a branded laptops say HP, Dell, Asus, Acer. Based on my POV, since I already used a Neo, the GUI of the laptop itself is not that appealing than that of those well known laptop manufacturers. Well at least its like putting an investment on your hard earned cash. But don't be just fooled by brands, but rather look for the performance of the laptops itself.

noted danny ... thanks :)

@Tammy: is that the toshiba satellite a205-s5866?

Dennis, got mine for P29K
Compaq Presario C700 (http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/ph/en/ho/WF25a/321957-321957-3329742-89318-89318-3466274.html)
Intel® Pentium® dual core processor T2390
• 1.86 GHz, 1 MB L2 Cache, 533 MHz FSB
120 GB A Hard Disk Drive
1 MB DDR2 Memory (haggle for a free upgrade to 2MB)
15.4” WXGA High Definition BrightView Widescreen 1280 x 800
Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator X3100 up to 251MB Total Available Graphics Memory

It doesn't come it an OS, I had an XP retail CD. Also, since it's built for Vista, the shop will install your drivers for you. A small inconvenience, but runs CS2 well.

Shops in Greenhills have this, all at the same price. So you really have to haggle for the free memory upgrade.

nice buy Mon :) do they accept credit cards ?
any difference with dual core proc. VS core2duo ?
thanks :)

Are you open to a desktop option?if yes,30k can get you a near high-end spec'd unit.for photoediting,RAM is essential,minimum of 1-2gb. 4gb is recommended for power users. Videoram is not very useful,unless you'll do games/3d design. Get a big hdd, 250gb and up. A fast powerful processor like core 2 duo. For monitor, 15" should be minimum,or you'll need to squint.

thanks Vin my Oldy P4 desk top is still working well, want to try notebook for the very 1st time ... hehehe:D

@Tammy: is that the toshiba satellite a205-s5866?

Yeah but it's costs 1k more than his budget

@dennis: i think the only difference between core duo and core 2 duo is that core 2 duo has somewhat faster clock speeds, not really sure though

@tammy: ok..

hehe dennis you could get that toshiba, my friend uses that same model and its good

Toshiba? check out Gadget Grocery (http://www.gadgetgrocery.com/)

My sister who doesn't really care about laptops just got one for her birthday. BLUE around 30k from Villman.

thanks tammy, does it performed well regarding picture editing :)
dont know if there's a big difference regarding dual core VS core2 duo ??

by the way i'm still using P4 desk top :Grin:

@tammy: ok..

hehe dennis you could get that toshiba, my friend uses that same model and its good

How I wish the major electronics shops here offered student discount...do they?

Yeah but it's costs 1k more than his budget

hahaha :D

ok i'm extending my budget up to 35K fixed :D

thanks tammy :)

How I wish the major electronics shops here offered student discount...do they?


i dont think so.. hehehe but they do have back to school sales during May.. :)

@tammy: ok..

hehe dennis you could get that toshiba, my friend uses that same model and its good

thanks chard ... will check it :)

hehe :D thanks mayk .. (darn, im sched critique for nxt week) :( anyway whats your current NB ??

Good evening there Dennis,

I actually have a desktop, our vintage PC-program unit was put into "donation" (pang high-school assignments nalang). I have now a legacy 3GHz Dual-Core (4MB cache mem)... (Darn! after 3mos after it's assembly, Core2Duo hits the market!) but still can manage CS3 and Literoom2 just installed recenty If you're open to a Desktop option, why not ponder on purchasing the uProcessor via employee discount program? a QuadCore maybe? Ronald has one and he said its really Fast!

OT: it was Mike-A's NB I used during the photo-critique
maykC

Good evening there Dennis,

I actually have a desktop, our vintage PC-program unit was put into "donation" (pang high-school assignments nalang). I have now a legacy 3GHz Dual-Core (4MB cache mem)... (Darn! after 3mos after it's assembly, Core2Duo hits the market!) but still can manage CS3 and Literoom2 just installed recenty If you're open to a Desktop option, why not ponder on purchasing the uProcessor via employee discount program? a QuadCore maybe? Ronald has one and he said its really Fast!

OT: it was Mike-A's NB I used during the photo-critique
maykC

they said that the employee discount program have been discontinued ?? :(

anyway my vintage PC-program have died 2 months ago and it was located at dasma, i guess its a HD failure or a MOBO..
i already upgraded it 2 years ago by P4 3gigs that i'm stiil using right now here at manila:)
i think i really need a portable one .. based on my different location scenario :Grin: hehe
not yet for the really fast desktop for now :)

thanks mayk :)

Also try Lenovo G410 series. I got mine 29k last Feb with a free Netgear wrieless router. It's Dual-Core 1.86 and 13" display. Suffice my Ps3 and Lr3 needs very well after upgrading the mem to 2G. All in all a steal because it was purchased last Feb but quite on the heavy side though at 2Kg. :Thinking:

Also try Lenovo G410 series. I got mine 29k last Feb with a free Netgear wrieless router. It's Dual-Core 1.86 and 13" display. Suffice my Ps3 and Lr3 needs very well after upgrading the mem to 2G. All in all a steal because it was purchased last Feb but quite on the heavy side though at 2Kg. :Thinking:

thanks mark i will include it as an option :) ang dami din pa palang options for a 30-35k budget :) its starts to confuse me now:Grin: hehe

thanks for all the replies pipols,

its still open for a great buy recommendations :Grin:

There are some Intel Core Duo MacBooks on that price range of yours, and some earlier G4 PowerBooks too.

Try Asus X80-LE or Dell Vostro

Hey Dennis, there are a lot of good brandnew and second hand laptops at tipidpc.com at that price range. Just search advanced, sort by category (laptop) and price (ascending or descending i think) then look at the laptops at 35k below.

For the specs, make sure to get a lappie with Core 2 Duo aka C2D processor (the higher the clock speed the better) and at least 1GB mem (much better if 2GB). Integrated video is more than enough for laptops too. I think these are the only things you should look at in getting a laptop. For the HDD, common capacities are 120GB and 160GB.

Don't get anything other than Core 2 Duo. Core Duo processors are considered old tech already. Although they can still perform, hey who wants old tech when you can get the new ones with that budget. :)

I just got a Lenovo g410 for 29,950. 12 mos to pay. Intel Dual core lang xa pero can accomodate XP unlike new laptops being manufactured na Vista lang ang driver. max RAM is 2GB. Intel 950 graphics card 14.1 inch 160 HD memory.

Hi Dennis! Getting more and more confused eh? You've got a lot of useful info from everyone here. Ponder each recommmendation well before deciding.

Of course, get Intel processors. CoreDuo processors (aka Yonah, 1.06-2.16Ghz clock speeds, 2MB L2 cache size) are already old. Go for Core2Duo chips (aka Merom and Penryn, 1.06-2.33/2.4/2.5/2.6Ghz clock speeds, 2-6MB L2 cache size, 533-1066MHz FSB). RAM should be 2GB. 120 GB HDD size should be ok esp. if you own an external HDD, you can later transfer your files to the external drive. And check on the monitor specs.....the higher the contrast ratio, the better.

Happy shopping!

Hey Dennis, there are a lot of good brandnew and second hand laptops at tipidpc.com at that price range. Just search advanced, sort by category (laptop) and price (ascending or descending i think) then look at the laptops at 35k below.

For the specs, make sure to get a lappie with Core 2 Duo aka C2D processor (the higher the clock speed the better) and at least 1GB mem (much better if 2GB). Integrated video is more than enough for laptops too. I think these are the only things you should look at in getting a laptop. For the HDD, common capacities are 120GB and 160GB.

Don't get anything other than Core 2 Duo. Core Duo processors are considered old tech already. Although they can still perform, hey who wants old tech when you can get the new ones with that budget. :)

Thanks patrick :) i already check TPC, agree with the specs, the problem now is the brand:(

is it advisable to get a 2nd hand NB ?

Hi Dennis! Getting more and more confused eh? You've got a lot of useful info from everyone here. Ponder each recommmendation well before deciding.

Of course, get Intel processors. CoreDuo processors (aka Yonah, 1.06-2.16Ghz clock speeds, 2MB L2 cache size) are already old. Go for Core2Duo chips (aka Merom and Penryn, 1.06-2.33/2.4/2.5/2.6Ghz clock speeds, 2-6MB L2 cache size, 533-1066MHz FSB). RAM should be 2GB. 120 GB HDD size should be ok esp. if you own an external HDD, you can later transfer your files to the external drive. And check on the monitor specs.....the higher the contrast ratio, the better.

Happy shopping!

thanks alford, sir Ernest S. PM me his recommendation :) above is a decent specs, but it must fit the budget :)

dennis, go with brand new and with a brand that is supported locally. IMHO, memory has a bigger impact on performance rather than coreDuo vs core2Duo, unless you're talking about desktops. With most laptop CPUs, the speed rating isn't going to be felt that much.

shops in greenhills accept credit cards, you can also haggle to get the cash price using a credit card - the tactic is to return several times to a shop saying you're ready to buy "but..." :)

Remember, free upgrade to 2MB memory and cash price even if using a credit card.