p.1 #1 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
Need to upgrade my computer(s). Currently running LR + PSE (min use) on iMac 21.5 (late 2009 model-4gb ram) and internal drive is 90% full. With new large files from 5dmarkiii (>20Mb), LR is very slow. I also have to run parallels for window based software but not simultaneous. Have MBP 13"(2009) also
Have been looking into either replacing both MBP +iMac outright or just using MBP(beefed up) + display. My main concern is parallels and LR run very slow on iMac(where all processing done) and I cant use new CF cards (udma 7) on anything I have as dont have usb 3.
Looked into docks for MBP but it appears its gonna cost quite a bit more to beef up a MBP + dock + display v. replace iMac and MBP.
Option 2:
MBP 15 retina
16GB (max amount)
768 flash drive
apple TB 27"display or Dell?
Dock
So my question is there a big or minimal difference with these two different set ups in terms of speed, performance, limitations, etc? For those who have MBP + displays, what limitations, if any, have you noticed? Am I missing something here where one is clearly a no brainer?
p.1 #4 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
Dell XPS 8500 Special Edition I configured with govt discount and 27" ultra sharp display a lot cheaper then getting MBP and 27" display and Dell specs way better
p.1 #5 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
Don't buy a new Mac without an SSD. 240GB works out well. Use an external USB drive for storage. I replaced my MBP HD with an Intel 335 SSD and the difference in battery and heat is great. Used Time Machine on an external USB drive to restore to new blank SSD.
p.1 #6 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
Paul Gardner wrote:
Don't buy a new Mac without an SSD. 204GB works out well. Use an external USB drive for storage. I replaced my MBP HD with an Intel 335 SSD and the difference in battery and heat is great. Used Time Machine on an external USB drive to restore to new blank SSD.
The 15 MBP retina version does not have option of SSD. Comes with flash. The non-retina can get SSD. Is SSD better than flash?
Besides battery and heat, did you notice much speed and performance difference with Intel?
p.1 #9 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
As suggested already, SSD drive is important. The Fusion (SSD hybridized with rotating drives) are also now an option, but I can't speak to their role. I'd personally not go for a SSD smaller than 500GB; I'm always regretting my 250BG choice on my 2010 MPB.
p.1 #12 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
docsmiles17 wrote:
Do the ssd or fusion drive for either a MBP or iMac have to be added by Apple or can 3rd party be placed?
Apple says only RAM can be added/replaced after purchase, true??
That may be true in the newer ones. I have a late 2011 mbp and i replaced the hard drive with a SSD. moved the hard drive to the cd/dvd bay (as i can't remember the last time i used a cd/dvd).
p.1 #14 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
Dell res 2560x1600
From Apple,
Dual display and video mirroring: Simultaneously supports full native resolution on the built-in display and up to 2560 by 1600 pixels on up to two external displays, at millions of colors
p.1 #15 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
I reckon that a retina screen will be more beneficial than an SSD in a non-retina MBP. Use the thunderbolt to drive speedy external storage options, though "speedy" usually implies expensive as does "reliable".
Check out available accessories at OWC ( www.macsales.com )
My 17-inch MBP screen has high resolution but not as high as a retina. Unfortunately it has a problem displaying bright red tones and loses tonal detail on bright red subjects. A high-end screen fixes that but I find they have too few pixels per inch and look a bit chunky for my liking. In general, though, I recommend the 15" retina MBP with a suitable external screen over an iMac with a tiny macbook pro. 13" is just too small for me regardless of resolution.
I'm more than a bit dark on Apple's new icloud-only approach to linking my MBP with an iPod or iPad and for that reason I have put a hold on buying new Apple computers. Another reason that put me off the retina MBPs is that some of them have a ghosting problem. I forget whether the LG- or Samsung-manufactured retina screens are at fault but it is hard to know in advance which one you will get.
p.1 #16 · iMac + macbook pro or macbook pro + display
I choose option 1
Not a MBP but the highest spec-ed MBA 13" for better portability.
At the moment I'm waiting for the iMac (with fusion drive) to be delivered.
