Apple MacBook Buying Guide

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic by 9 people | Log in to rate

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Everything you need to know about buying Apple MacBooks and accessories in one place

If you're thinking about buying an Apple MacBook this is the place for you. I've scoured the web and tracked down the best deals on MacBooks and MacBook accessories.

What's in a MacBook? Quite a lot, actually! 

- 13.3-inch widescreen glossy display (1280 by 800 resolution)
- 1.83GHz or 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
- Up to 2GB memory
- Up to 200GB hard drive
- Apple Remote with Front Row
- Built-in iSight web cam
- Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950
- Slot-loading optical drive (Combo Drive or Super Drive)
- Built-in AirPort Extreme (for wireless internet access)
- FireWire 400 and two USB 2.0 ports
- Gigabit Ethernet (for fast wired internet)
- Bluetooth 2.0 wireless
- 60W MagSafe Power Adapter
- Lithium-polymer batter (lasts more than 3.5 hours)

The MacBook models - What's the difference? 

Apple makes three MacBook models, each one powered by the Intel Core 2 Duo processors.

1.83 MHz white
Standard configuration: 2MB shared cache, 512MB (2x256MB) of 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM (PC2-5300) (configurable up to 2GB), 60GB Serial ATA; 5400-rpm hard drive, Combo Drive

2.0 MHz white
Standard configuration: 4MB shared cache, 1GB (2x512MB) of 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM (PC2-5300) (supports up to 2GB), 80GB Serial ATA; 5400-rpm hard drive, SuperDrive (writes double-layer disks)

2.0 MHz black
Standard configuration: 4MB shared cache, 1GB (2x512MB) of 667MHz DDR2 SDRAM (PC2-5300) (supports up to 2GB), 120GB Serial ATA; 5400-rpm hard drive, SuperDrive (writes double-layer disks)

The latest MacBook reviews 

As you can see, I'm not the only one who loves the Apple MacBook

MacWorld Review: MacBook Core 2 Duo/1.83GHz and 2.0GHz
Excerpt: "...the performance benefits of the Core 2 Duo design are appreciable in many applications... All three MacBook models are fast, sturdy, and versatile computers."
ComputerWorldReview: First take: The Core 2 Duo MacBook is fast as all get out
Excerpt: "... already on store shelves and measuring up well not only to its predecessor but to its big brothers in the MacBook Pro lineup, the new MacBook is an even better value than the model it replaces. With a notable speed boost from the new Core 2 Duo processor, more standard RAM and larger hard drives, the MacBook arrived just ahead of the holiday shopping season.."
CNet Review (and Editors' Choice): Apple MacBook (Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz)
Excerpt: "Cheaper than the MacBook Pro, with nearly comparable performance; great design; built-in Webcam and remote control; can run Windows XP via Boot Camp."
Tech News World: Apple's MacBooks: One Pro, Two Winners
Excerpt: "the new models are superb values worth considering for an end-of-year purchase or holiday gift-giving."
ZDNet review: Apple's new 13.3 inch MacBook is a good buy, but in specific cases
Excerpt: "...the improvements in moving from the Core Duo to the Core 2 Duo are noticeable."

MacBook deals on Amazon 

Free shipping, low prices, and you don't pay sales tax! (unlike the online Apple store and other retailers)

Apple MacBook MA699LL/A 13.3" Laptop (1.83 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 512 MB RAM, 60 GB Hard Drive, DVD-ROM/CD-RW Combo Drive) - White

The lowest-priced MacBook is great for people who don't need to burn DVD's.

Amazon Price: (as of 12/23/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $1,099.99

Apple MacBook MA700LL/A 13.3" Laptop (2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 1 GB RAM, 80 GB Hard Drive, SuperDrive) - White

The middle-priced MacBook burns DVD's and has an 80 GB hard drive.

Amazon Price: (as of 12/23/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $1,299.99

Apple MacBook MA701LL/A 13.3-inch Laptop (2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 1 GB RAM, 120 GB Hard Drive, DVD/CD SuperDrive) - Black

The highest-priced Black MacBook boasts a large 120 GB hard drive and a black matte finish.

Amazon Price: (as of 12/23/2009) Buy Now
List Price: $1,499.99

Apple MacBook deals on eBay 

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C'mon, spill the beans 

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Latest Apple news and rumors 

From MacRumors.com

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My MacBook fund progress report 

Here's how much I've made towards my goal of buying my own MacBook

Update history
November 28th, 2006 - $0

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by SparkleMotion

I'm a poor grad student and Mac fanatic. I'd like to earn enough money from this lens to afford a MacBook of my own. (more)

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