Best printer scanners for home use. Sheet-fed scanner look a bit like a printer or the sheet-feeder on a copy machine. Above you'll find our product list, featuring our top five scanners. • Pros: You can put in a whole stack of paperwork and leave a sheetfed scanner to do its thing. You put documents in at the top, and the machine spits them out the other end, after they've been scanned. But first, read on for our full guide to scanners and how to select the perfect model to fit your requirements.
The MacBook Air 2015 is possibly the best laptop for students and everyday users. I have been using the '2015 MacBook Air' more than my 2012 MacBook Pro as it has been better in terms of weight. Here are my picks for BEST LAPTOPS: Asus ROG Series Laptop. The Asus Rog Series is a powerful 6th generation Intel Core i7 laptop. Built to focus on portable gaming and is one of the best laptops for music production. An external sound card is a device used in computers and offices. It’s numerous functions and features allow it to turn any average computer or laptop into a full home-theater. These sound cards offer easy installation without having to risk opening up your laptop or personal computer. Laptop Recommendations. We don’t require it, but many students opt to buy their own laptop. Listed below is a table of laptop components and our recommendations for those components in three categories: Good, Better, and Best. Netbooks are NOT viable solutions for audio/video/web production & design, database work, and math/engineering applications. Note: If deciding on purchasing a Mac, please contact your program advisor first.
- Engineering Laptop Best To Buy
- Best Laptops For Sound Recording
- Best Mac Laptop For Gaming
- Best Laptop For Sound Quality
Today we’re looking for the best computer for music production and recording. So you have the music production gear; keyboards, speakers, microphones, and most importantly, the ideas storming around in your brain. But what about the actual computer to act as the backbone of your entire digital music production setup? When it comes to a music making computer, we want to settle some anxiety you may have right off the bat: it isn’t too big of deal which one you get. When we say that, we mean what kind, type, brand, etc. You will want to follow our checklists for musts so you ensure you have a computer that can actually handle the modern-day digital music production setup; however, there is a vast majority of models to choose from that will work perfectly fine.
How to choose your computer for music production
- Your budget – As perhaps assumed, this is our first and foremost the biggest deciding factor. Although you don’t necessarily have to drop thousands of dollars on your music making computer, the higher you go, the better overall quality your work flow will be. Many reading this article may be just starting to build a home studio, so keep in mind what other gear you need to balance your money out. To have a fast and easy setup however shouldn’t take more than a thousand bucks (and lower). If you’re a starter musician buying your beginners music gear, you may want to save some money and grab a more budget-friendly computer to get going (read our beginners music computer guide for that). However, we do recommend saving up as much cash and being as patient as you can, since computers will be a long-term investment for the next 5 or so years. As stated previously, they’re also the backbone of a home studio — without a solid music computer, your other gear won’t even work properly and will be useless.
- Mac vs. PC? Uh oh, we’re not going to get into this debate. When it comes to music production, this debacle is quite overplayed. You need to understand that in the end both are merely just computers. There is not a preferred “brand” of computer for music making! The only deciding factor for using a Mac or PC (in our opinion) is explained in the next bullet point (or if you’re loyal to a certain route, but that’s not our business). However, you can also read our PC or Mac for music making article for more detail into this popular argument before you continue on.
- What DAW are you using? Do you have your digital audio workstation picked out yet? If so, this may steer you towards a specific Mac or PC choice. We would only go with Mac if you’re planning on using Pro Tools (they do have a Windows version out now), Garageband or Logic since they are Mac-only. Otherwise, both can work, but double-check on your preferred software’s compatibility.
- Laptop vs. desktop – Here’s another debate when it comes to computers for music. Nowadays, I’ve heard of producers using laptops at home considering how powerful and capable they’ve become in recent years. One of the biggest deciding factors for a laptop vs. desktop choice is if you’re planning on traveling or performing live. If this is so, we’d grab a laptop since it’ll work amazing for these purposes as well as can hold its own while you’re at homein the studio making some tunes in between gigs (you can read our music production laptops guide as well). Otherwise, grabbing a powerful desktop PCMac has a lot of potential. We have mostly desktop below, so read our guide we’ve just linked in case you’re in need of a laptop — we did sprinkle a few below, too.
- These are all pre-built – We know many computer junkies out there who frown at those who buy computers that already have their insides picked out. We wanted to mention this last since it won’t pertain to everybody. If you’re in the mood to just get going on making some tunes, pre-built is the way to go. Creating your own music computer does give you some flexibility when it comes to doing a little more work and researching the best RAM, hard drive and processor you’d like to mix and match with (which can probably save you a few bucks in the long run as well); however, many pre-built PC’s in the market are still amazing for recording and producing music, so if you aren’t into learning how to make your own computer right now, it’s no worries. We’ll leave that up to you. If you are indeed into making your own music computer, read our article for an in-depth guide.
Our checklist for computers for making music
In order to get a feel for what specifications we actually need in our computers, let’s first compare and contrast with some of the most popular music software out there and what minimum system requirements they ask for. We can then use this as a guide to see what the absolute minimum is. Going above is always a good idea since a lot of software out there update quite frequently and sometimes increase their requirements, and you want to be set for the long-term, not just the “minimum”.
Let’s review the three most popular software out there right now in Pro Tools, Ableton and Logic. Pro Tools is by far the most demanding software, so if you aren’t using it but still want a computer that supports it, you’ll be in the clear for literally anything else out there.
Pro Tools:
- Operating System: Windows 8.1 or higher, Mac OS X 10.11.6 or higher
- Processor: Intel Core i7
- RAM: 16 GB (32 GB ‘recommended’)
- Hard Drive: 15 GB (installation only)
- PCle slot for HDX or HD native cards
Ableton Live 10
- Operating System: Windows 7 or higher, Mac OS X 10.11.6 or higher
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- RAM: 4 GB (8 GB ‘recommended’)
- Hard Drive: At least 10 GB
Logic Pro X
- Operating System: macOS 10.12 or higher
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- RAM: 4 GB
- Hard Drive: 6 GB for installation, 63 GB for full Sound Library installation
- Graphics: OpenCL-capable, Intel 3000 or later
Now that we’ve analyzed the “minimum requirements”, and key word here is “minimum”, let’s organize it al into a checklist for you to use when shopping for the best music production and recording computer.
- Processors – This is a tough one because a 3.0 GHz processor is a huge difference if it’s let’s say dual core or quad-core. Processor is extremely important (besides RAM or an SSD drive listed below), because it allows us to work in a quicker, more fluid manner, as well as merely to handle the “processes” we need while we make our music. In our opinion, the faster you can work, the more ideas you can get out of your head and into your music canvas. You also don’t want your computer clogging up during a crucial moment of creation, especially if you’re recording and there’s a blip in your track and you have to re-do it all! We would go with at least a 3.0 processor that is at least a quad-core — more specifically, an Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent.
- There must be at least 16 GB of RAM. Any higher you go in the RAM department is always a plus, so be our guest. For this year we’ve just increased this from 8 to 16 because Pro Tools now has a minimum requirement of 16 GB! RAM is short for Random Access Memory, which is responsible for storing temporary data to act as the “working memory” of our computer. This is important because just like our processor, music software needs to constantly “work” with each action you partake in, calling for not only “enough” working memory but fast enough so we don’t experience any glitches or lag.
- At least 500 GB of hard drive capacity– This is up to you, as some say 1TB at least; however, 500 GB is pretty hefty if you aren’t downloading sounds and storing them on the computer or using the device for anything else (such as work, school, images and videos). Keep in mind however a lot of VST software plug-ins and effects are very demanding in regards to hard drive space. We actually use both our internal hard drives as well as an extra external hard drive with about 2 more TB on it (we have thousands of VST’s and samples).
- Make sure at least some of your hard-drive is SSD (Solid-State Drive)! This is very important because SSD helps process data and requests much faster than regular HDD. Read more about SSD vs. HDD here.
- A big enough screen to work with (15″ and up), but that really comes down to your personal preference and whether or not you’re on a laptop or desktop computer. We personally couldn’t imagine making music without two for a dual-monitor setup. But that’s your call.
- We don’t think video cards matter at all unless you’re editing videos on the side. The stock card in most pre-built computers are feasible, since nowadays most computers will come with some great video cards that support most types of video work or video games.
The top 10 best computers for music production and recording
The following list is our recommended 10 best computers for production currently in the market. We made sure to choose a wide range of types. Also understand that there are new models of computers coming out almost weekly now, so don’t let the “this one is new!” label get too into your head. We feel the following models are solid because of user reviews, specs, and overall reputation. Let us know if you have any questions or comments!
Apple iMac
Check price of Apple iMac: US | UK
If you’re planning on being a “studio only” producer (whether you’re home, semi or even professional), here’s the best Mac computer to buy. If you grab one of these, you can use their Mac-specific DAWs, such as Logic, Garageband, and of course Pro Tools. Even if you don’t plan on using Pro Tools right away, you can always upgrade in a few years (we think this will last you at least 5+ years if you purchase a model with a decent specification list). So don’t forget to keep the future (long-term of course) in mind when investing in a computer for music production, considering it’s what holds the entire setup together. If you want a Mac, grab either this or the laptop we first presented and don’t look back, we wouldn’t bother reading on.
We link you to a broad search page because there are many iMac versions available and are continued to be released to this day. This is also first due to this — we have options to pertain to our budgets and can mix and match certain specs we need or don’t. Of course, be sure to use our checklist above when finding the right Apple iMac for you. This is by far the safest pick as the best music making computer in the market today.
![Best Mac Laptop For Sound Engineering Best Mac Laptop For Sound Engineering](/uploads/1/2/5/3/125382903/785363001.jpg)
Lenovo ThinkServer
View price for the Lenovo ThinkServer: US | UK
We’ve done a lot of research and talking to our friends who make music for a living, and when it comes to a PC that isn’t Mac, the name Lenovo continued to come up. Although it really doesn’t matter (really, it doesn’t) which brand you grab, there are a few aspects to take into consideration: user reviews, reports on longevity, brand support, and stats on the quality of internal parts they use. That’s why we feel as compared to some other PC brands like HP, Acer or Dell (although mentioned later), it’s safe to grab one we’ve analyzed and have used personally. Therefore, this is our (our recommendation) choice for Windows PC for producing music. Lenovo builds tanks, and the word among the internet supports that. This may be a bit excessive for some, but can more than handle any process you throw at it to act as the best music recording and production computer out there if you need a Windows machine. Best hard drive for time machine. Enter the Lenovo ThinkServer.
Acer Aspire
See prices for the Acer Aspire: US | UK
When it comes to the best music making and recording desktop PC, we have a few options. The Acer Aspire is one we couldn’t ignore as another one of the best music production computers due to the reviews backing up its overall quality and build. Depending on which model you grab, there will be very feasible specifications to get your music making going out of the box. You have numerous USB ports for your interfaces and other external pieces of gear, ability to have multiple screens (oh yes, this helps tremendously), a decent weight (it’s a desktop, so in our opinion the heavier the more sturdy), and a wonderful Acer community out there if you need any help. Here’s a great pick for a desktop PC to run Windows with your music making endeavors, and you get some great options to customize to your price-point on top of it all.
Apple MacBook Pro
Check price for the MacBook Pro: US | UK
Here’s the consensus when it comes to the best laptop for music making and recording — The Apple MacBook Pro. Talk to many producers who have a laptop in their setup and they’ll swear by it (if they’re “Mac people” of course). In fact, there will probably be people who scoff at the thought of making music anything but this. You all can have your opinions; however, if you don’t have a strong belief yet and if you want a computer for making music that you’re confident others use, this is one to grab. There are many specification combinations available to fit within your budget range, too (such as screen size, memory capacity, processor speed (for a price) and more).
Another big reason we recommend the Apple MacBook Pro first for a laptop-seeker aside from Mac’s obvious reputation is the flat-out performance of these things — they’re sturdy, last a while, come with feasible internal builds (that you can’t customize, though) and more. Lastly, some music software come as mac only, while others both — it’s more likely software and gear are mac-only as opposed to windows-only — something to think about. MacWorld’s article loves the MacBook Pro for music making.
PC Audio Labs Rok Box
Flying under the radar at times (unfortunately) due to the lack of heavily marketed brand names, PC Audio Labs brings us computers literally made for the tough processes of music production. We were unfamiliar with what they brought to the table until a few years ago, but after heavy research and asking around with other producers what their thoughts were, many had zero complaints and actually scoffed at the fact that we recommended any other music production computer aside from these guys.
Perhaps labeled as ‘expensive’ by others (you’ll get what you pay for, trust us), especially compared to dinkier machines, their Rok Box series in particular brings us many solutions in not only the personal computer department but laptops as well. They have quite a few models to choose from depending on budget — you can up go to a few thousands to grab a tank, or perhaps just under a thousand for a decent budget-friendly workstation for beginners. They also allow for add-ons for your PC’s internal parts, such as RAM, hard drive and more. Praised by many professional musicians around the world, we’re glad this takes a place relatively early in our best recording and production computer guide. They also have tons and of how-to’s and support videos on their website to help you through out your music journey.
Dell Inspiron
Check pricing for the Dell Inspiron: US | UK
Engineering Laptop Best To Buy
We’ve had Dell around our entire lives, and although they had mixed reviews back in the day when it came to quality, the Inspiron series as a whole has been recommended quite a few times when it comes to overall effectiveness, especially for music considering the specs are up there. If you aren’t a fan of Mac and don’t recognize the Lenovo name, we’d grab this one and check out the reviews for yourself. The Dell Inspiron is a highly reviewed and reputable desktop PC for music production. They have decent user support if you ever need (we suppose is a plus), and it doesn’t hurt to have a brand name you’re familiar with. Dell Inspiron help is always available, too.
HP Pavilion
Read reviewspricing of the HP Pavilion: US | UK
The HP Pavilion is another popular and highly reviewed pre-built computer series in the market right now that brings us great specs and power for handling music production tasks. Widely praised for their compatibility with ‘gaming’, this also gives us confidence music software is viable as well. Again, this is a pre-built ‘series’ (yes, they have laptops as well if you’re a big HP fan), so you can choose a particular model that fits not only your budget but music software’s needs as well. Of course, we require going a bit higher than the ‘minimum’ (a few of the higher models have more than enough, or you can always add-on let’s say some more RAM or hard drive memory later down the road as well). Just another decent computer series here that can act as the best music recording computer if you want a known brand and Windows desktop.
Lenovo ThinkPad
View price for Lenovo ThinkPad: US | UK
These things are tanks. Lenovo is a heavy hitter in the quality department of both laptops and PC’s (we have a few of their models in this article for a reason). The overall build is extremely sturdy (which is one of the main reasons we recommend Lenovo’s to our readers) and they’ll last you for quite a while if you’re looking to invest in a laptop that will be around for a while. Additionally, a lot of these come with SSD (Solid State Drives) which as we’ve stated previously, is a must and a huge plus for convenience and speed (SSD’s are basically less affected by impacts, load apps and your computer quicker, and lower failure rates).
What’s even better are the options they give you; you can go as high as you’d like in the RAM and processor department. We’ve again linked you to a broad page to see the many different types of ThinkPad’s out there if you wanted one of the best laptops that uses Windows (in our opinion) — we recommend sticking in the middle price-point, fulfilling our checklist above; however, if you can go higher, we’d say go for it if you have the cash. We’re typing on a Lenovo ThinkPad right now.
Acer Predator
View price of the Acer Predator: US | UK
This Acer Predator is considered by many as a “gaming desktop computer”, and although obviously by the video card it is, the processor, RAM and overall quality of the machine works quite well as the best computer for music making, too. We put this in here because it’s just another option — although the PC’s listed first are more suited (and perhaps a bit cheaper) when it comes to music production (since video cards aren’t necessary with recording or producing), the Acer Predator is a PC to keep in mind while you shop if you indeed plan on perhaps playing games, making videos or other activities on a computer. I mean, it’s not like you’re buying a PC just to make music with (perhaps some of you are), so purchasing a computer that is more of an all-around type may be in your interest.
Lenovo ThinkCentre
Best house plan software for mac. Check price of the ThinkCentre: US | UK
Best Laptops For Sound Recording
This is Lenovo’s bit of a mix between a laptop and PC. The Lenovo ThinkCentre is considered a “tiny” desktop due to the size, and when it comes to price it’s relatively cheap as compared to many models we’ve listed in here. It’s just another option; you may be looking for an in-the-middle price point and something that fits snug into your existing studio setup. It’s also great for traveling if you plan on setting up a desktop at a friends or stage. Although we do recommend spending the extra few bucks on a computer we’ve previously listed, the ThinkCentre still brings what we feel are requirements for the “best music production computer” specifications, is by a reliable brand on top of it.
More gear reviews and guides in the realm..
21 replies4 threadsRegistered UserNew Member
I need to get a laptop for my son who is going to be a freshman engineering student at UW. We are leaning towards the MacBook Air or Pro. Any recommendations from fellow engineering students? Thanks!
15 replies![Mac Mac](/uploads/1/2/5/3/125382903/862327121.jpg)
Best Mac Laptop For Gaming
Post edited by Coffeelover9 on
Replies to: MacBook Air or Pro for engineering student at UW?
Best Laptop For Sound Quality
- #118 replies0 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberI'm not in UW, but if your son wants a really lightweight laptop with a really long battery life, then he should get the MacBook Air, but if he wants a more powerful one then he should get the MacBook Pro (I'd lean more towards the Pro). If you plan on getting the Pro, you may want to upgrade the hard drive to SSD because it's faster.
Make sure you buy the MacBook through the Apple Store for Education website (Official Apple Store US - Buy iPad mini, iPad, iPhone 5, MacBook Pro, iMac and More) for a student discount.0· Reply·Share - #26 replies0 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberWell the MacBook Pro line is rumored to either be refreshed September 10 or some time in October. This refresh will give the MacBook Pro 10+ (due to the new Haswell CPUs) mainly, other features are speculation at this point. The Macbook Air, on the other hand, has already been refreshed a few months ago to give 9-11 hours of battery life. I'd hold on until September 10 just in case (unless he needs it before then!).
In terms of the present I'd buy him the MBP. The MBA only has 128 GB of storage at the base model (but its blazing fast), compared to the 500gb on the MBP. The MBP is also more powerful in terms of CPU performance and it comes with an CD drive.
Currently I'd suggest you buy either Macbook at Best Buy. They are having a back to school sale and giving $150 off the MBP with another $100 off possible via student discount (you need a valid .edu email), for a $250 discount in total. Its currently a lot better discount than buying from Apple directly. This sale ends September 6, which again, might indicate a MBP refresh coming soon after and it's Best Buy trying to get rid of current stock before the new ones come in. Link:[url]http://*******/11JKyZq[/url]
Also if you're no dead set on a Macbook, you could always get a Windows laptop. Perhaps one of these: [url]http://*******/15dtUqo[/url]. $ 700 for 50% more RAM, .1 in thinner, faster hybrid hard drive, bigger screen, and touchscreen compared to the base $1000 MBP. It's a little slower though CPU wise and doesn't come with a backlit keyboard.0· Reply·Share - #321 replies4 threadsRegistered UserNew Member@nbms03 and DaveSpool - Thanks so much for the advice! I need all I can get.0· Reply·Share
- #422 replies5 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberNo offense, but after working with the engineering faculty at the UW, I would recommend a Windows laptop. What is the point of buying a macbook when he needs to install Windows on it? And viruses? Mac's can easily catch viruses, and odds are UW would require him to install an antivirus software either way. For the amount you will spend on the macbook is equivalent to a beautiful Windows laptop that can perform faster than a Macbook. If you really want that 'Mac' feel, install Linux.
The software for Engineering is popular on the windows platform ultimately, and today's industry is heavily focused on Windows as of right now.0· Reply·Share - #5Linux does not give the 'Mac' feel.
The point of getting a Mac is to get something with great build quality, good design, one of the most accurate and capable trackpads, long battery life, and high resale value, among other things.0· Reply·Share - #622 replies5 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberThere are numerous flavors of Linux OS's that have dumbified it for students who are afraid of the command line (Ubuntu). Part of being an engineer is to work with an environment and to take actual risks.
The point of anyone getting a Mac nowadays is to buy into the brand. Face it, and admit it, I can find the same exact laptop at Best Buy that is around $700 - $800. It is going to be as shiny and come loaded with features Mac users might not even get.
End of the story, you will need Windows. Why on earth buy a MacBook to install Windows?
I am sorry for sounding so rude, but it is time some people are actually told the truth, and not buy into a shiny logo.0· Reply·Share - #782 replies2 threadsRegistered UserJunior MemberKrine11, you are right about needing Windows but you are wrong about Macbooks being overpriced. There is a reason that many people choose Macbooks over Windows laptops and it is not because they are 'buying into the brand'.
The new Macbook Airs have 12+ hour battery life. NO Windows laptop can match that. But even if you disregard battery life it is still almost impossible to find a cheaper Windows ultrabook with the same specs. The Macbook Air's best competitor is the new Acer Aspire S7 and that costs a whopping $1500! Don't believe me? Go ahead, find an ultrabook with at least 128GB of solid state storage and a 4th generation i5 for $700-$800.
And don't forget about the Retina Macbook Pros. When I purchased a laptop earlier this summer I searched long and hard for a Windows laptop that could match the 15' Retina Macbook Pro in portability, performance, and screen quality. Price wasn't an issue for me. I found some Windows laptops that were more powerful but they were twice as thick and twice as heavy. I found some Windows laptops that were more portable but they couldn't match the performance. I couldn't find any Windows laptops with comparable screens. Long story short, I failed and I ultimately I settled for the Razer Blade ($2K), which matches the MBPr 15 in portability and performance but has a sucky screen.
I got a Windows laptop because I knew that I would need to run Windows-specific software and I didn't want to go to the trouble of switching between Windows and OSX. However, if you aren't planning on running Windows-only software then I recommend getting a Macbook. Not only are they amazing machines, but they also have great resale value and Apple has fantastic customer support.0· Reply·Share - #815 replies0 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberKrine,
The op asked for advice concerning laptops, not criticism. Perhaps more constructive advice would include /specific/ alternatives which you consider superior.
It's been over a decade since I've owned a Windows machine. I've personally had difficulties with Windows' security failings (as have many family, friends, etc.), and haven't run into those issues (yet) with Mac. It's likely that the 'exact same' $700-$800 laptop found at Best Buy is also twice as heavy, has cheaper components, doesn't have an iOS option, and is virus-prone. Maybe I just don't know how to use a Windows machine.
PS - Coffeelover, don't buy Office for Mac (or Windows machines!) - your son can get a heavily discounted to free version from the UW!
Happy computer hunting everyone!0· Reply·Share - #922 replies5 threadsRegistered UserNew Member@OldDwag
People are already into the brand. What you just said as 'security failings' can be just as applied to Macs: ? Safari hacked in five seconds at Pwn2Own
Windows are prone to viruses because they have a bigger population of users using specifically Windows OS. But, unless you are an complete idiot who clicks on everything you see on the internet, and download every piece of file out there on the interwebz, there is no way anyone else can complain about a virus in this point of time. Have you heard of Ultrabooks? They are just as light as the 'MacBook Air' and offer the same components. To claim that those laptops cheaply made is just another point that people who own Macs always bring up, other than the shiny metal, what else is there to brag about the MacBook? Why would anyone want an iOs option? I encourage you to at least demo the latest Windows and say that it is virus prone or has numerous failings.
There is a reason why today's industry is heavily relied on Windows, from Government, to HR, to Medicine, to Engineering, to Education.
I am only using this tone of matter because I am sick of people buying into the MacBook scheme and use false excuses to defend their $1200 investment.0· Reply·Share - #10125 replies31 threadsRegistered UserJunior MemberThe only true reason to buy a Mac is for its durability. Not saying PC laptops aren't as durable, but Apple's design with their Macbooks are really top notch. Also, the claim of 'Macs can't get virus's' is not true. Although most hackers and virus programmers are more familiar with PC, Macs can get virus's (is it virus's? or virus'? I'm dumb) just as easily as PCs in some situations.
I'm both a Mac and PC user and I find that I like Macs more only because I do editing and a little programming, but since you're going into engineering, a PC might be a better choice because a lot of programs and software are more compatible with PCs than Macs.
But just to add, I have run into more software (and sometimes hardware problems) on PCs than Mac laptops. I've gone through 3 different PC laptops (2 HPs and an Asus) whereas I've only had 1 Macbook Pro which is the 2011 model.0· Reply·Share - #1122 replies5 threadsRegistered UserNew MemberI bought my brother a ASUS machine three years ago for $650 during Christmas, he games on it, codes, never had to defrag and installs updates as prompted.
Getting a Mac is an excuse to having a dumbified OS that does everything for you.
I said it.0· Reply·Share - #1282 replies2 threadsRegistered UserJunior MemberKrine, did you even read my post? My challenge still stands: find an ultrabook with the same specs as a MacBook Air that is significantly cheaper.
And since when has having an operating system that is easier to use been a bad thing? You sound like the typical elitist Windows user who thinks that Mac users don't know anything about computers.0· Reply·Share - #13277 replies2 threadsRegistered UserJunior MemberMacbook Air has worked out well for our son who will be starting his third year at UW. He has been taking mainly Math, CS and EE classes and he says he is not handicapped in any way.
All this talk about Mac vs. PC and dumbified OS is quite entertaining.0· Reply·Share - #14414 replies8 threadsRegistered UserMemberSent son to school w a macbook. By the time he was a senior ME he realized the software he needed didn't run on Mac. Check a dell xps for an engineer0· Reply·Share
- #1573 replies4 threadsRegistered UserJunior MemberSeriously. I've spent then past ten years working on computers, mostly PCs. My home computer is a Mac for a reason. Some people have preferences. *shrug*
The first two comments are completely correct. The Airs aren't as much of a performance drop as they used to be, but if you're hoping to get him something to last all four years, I'd suggest waiting until the new MBPs drop and upgrading it to an SSD. That being said, they just refreshed the Airs. One other thing to consider is that students can request remote access to UW systems so he should be able to do everything he needs to with an Air.
One major thing to note is that everything on the Air (RAM, hard drive) is soldered to the board, meaning it can't be upgraded later. The Pros, on the other hand, can be easily upgraded by anyone with the internet, some common sense, and a tiny screwdriver. If you do go for the Air and plan on having him use it as long as possible, order it from Apple and max out as much as you can, and then get the AppleCare.0· Reply·Share