Which size MacBook Pro should I buy
From Mac Guides
Introduction
The most significant benefit to purchasing a MacBook Pro is having both power and portability. Ideally, the nature of what you will be using the MacBook Pro for can help dictate what screen size MacBook Pro you invest in. Prior to making your purchase, ask yourself: "Will I be using my MacBook Pro for travel or primarily as a convenient portable solution around the home?" If your professional career dictates that you carry a MacBook Pro with you every day through airports, hotels and business meetings then investing in a 17" model might prove to be too cumbersome a companion for you. Likewise, if the majority of the work you do is stationary, with travel being relatively rare, both 15" and 17" MacBook Pros are appropriate.
MacRumors Examples
Here are some examples taken from posts on the MacRumors Forums of users stating what they'll be using their MacBook Pro for and the overall recommendation for what model they should buy:
| Scenario | Our recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| I'll be using the MacBook Pro for graphic design and/ or movie editing. I plan to occasionally move around from place to place with the MacBook Pro. | 17" MacBook Pro | You'll benefit from the better screen size and resolution. If you move around quite frequently, a 15" MacBook Pro with an external display may be a better choice. |
| I require something I can take everywhere with me, but I do demanding things like playing games and heavy photo editing. | 15" MacBook Pro | As you need portability the 17" MacBook Pro wouldn't be a very good choice. |
| I just want something to surf the Internet with, check email, listen to some tunes and word process with. | MacBook or 15" MacBook Pro | A MacBook Pro would be overkill in this case, however, if you really want a bigger screen, then the 15" MacBook Pro would be fine if you have enough funds. |
MacBook Comparison
That brings up an important point: Before purchasing the relatively expensive MacBook Pro, consider purchasing a MacBook. The MacBook comes in white or black, with a processor equivalent to the low-end MacBook Pro. In fact the only major differences between a MacBook and MacBook Pro is the MacBook's poorer graphics card and its smaller screen. MacBooks are especially an option if you already have a desktop computer and simply want a second portable computer. See the MacBook vs. MacBook Pro guide for more information.
