Buying Advice: MacBook vs. MacBook Pro
I'm planning on buying a laptop in the New Year, and need a little input in making my decision. My first choice is the MacBook because of it's size and price. I'll be hauling it back and forth to school, and although the Pro isn't that heavy, the lighter the better.
I mainly use my computer now for all the basic things (web, email, iTunes, Office, etc) plus some photo editing (with Lightroom). However, starting next semester I'll be using AutoCAD (specifically AutoCAD for Civil) on a regular basis and want a machine capable of running it smoothly (via Boot Camp). I stress "smoothly" because if I had to stare at that coloured pinwheel on a regular basis I might go off the deep end.
The MacBook claims improved 3D graphics with the new nvidia chips, so I was wondering if it would be a sufficient machine for me. If anyone has experience using these two together I would greatly appreciate the input. Thanks.
I mainly use my computer now for all the basic things (web, email, iTunes, Office, etc) plus some photo editing (with Lightroom). However, starting next semester I'll be using AutoCAD (specifically AutoCAD for Civil) on a regular basis and want a machine capable of running it smoothly (via Boot Camp). I stress "smoothly" because if I had to stare at that coloured pinwheel on a regular basis I might go off the deep end.
The MacBook claims improved 3D graphics with the new nvidia chips, so I was wondering if it would be a sufficient machine for me. If anyone has experience using these two together I would greatly appreciate the input. Thanks.
Comments
I'm planning on buying a laptop in the New Year, and need a little input in making my decision. My first choice is the MacBook because of it's size and price. I'll be hauling it back and forth to school, and although the Pro isn't that heavy, the lighter the better.
I mainly use my computer now for all the basic things (web, email, iTunes, Office, etc) plus some photo editing (with Lightroom). However, starting next semester I'll be using AutoCAD (specifically AutoCAD for Civil) on a regular basis and want a machine capable of running it smoothly (via Boot Camp). I stress "smoothly" because if I had to stare at that coloured pinwheel on a regular basis I might go off the deep end.
The MacBook claims improved 3D graphics with the new nvidia chips, so I was wondering if it would be a sufficient machine for me. If anyone has experience using these two together I would greatly appreciate the input. Thanks.
\\
Depends how intensively you want to use AutoCAD, and what AutoCAD's recommended system specs are.
In any case, the Macbook should run it. The current model has roughly the equivalent of a Radeon X1600 in it. I don't imagine you should have any problems, but keep in mind that for a lot of graphics-intensive apps, using a PC with integrated graphics is not recommended. Although what's in the current model Macbook is pretty advanced. See what the recommended specs are for AutoCAD and post them.
\\
Depends how intensively you want to use AutoCAD, and what AutoCAD's recommended system specs are.
In any case, the Macbook should run it. The current model has roughly the equivalent of a Radeon X1600 in it. I don't imagine you should have any problems, but keep in mind that for a lot of graphics-intensive apps, using a PC with integrated graphics is not recommended. Although what's in the current model Macbook is pretty advanced. See what the recommended specs are for AutoCAD and post them.
Autodesk's website doesn't specify any kind of video card nor video memory. Here's the complete list: http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet...112&id=8915326