When getting a laptop for college, there are a number of things to consider, usually price is a huge factor, but quality and overall comfort is also a big concern. Carful consideration should also be given to the two major types: PCs or Apple.
As a student at the University of Wisconsin-Stout, I have had the opportunity to work with both of laptop computers, the Hewlett Packard (HP) 6230 Series PC and the Apple MacBook Pro. I will briefly review aspects of both laptops that I found to be important to me a as a student. Since each computer was pre-loaded with software suites required by the university, I won’t be discussing software applications. However, regardless of the brand of computer, certain requirements as a student and laptop user were more important to me than others.
Features
I have found that some features were more important to me as a student than others, most people immediately think about the memory and processor, but don’t give much thought to the “details” that make the computer more personal. Included in this review are the features I think are important considerations.
Screen
The HP series laptop has a 14-inch XGA matte screen, while the MacBook Pro features a 15.4 inch glossy LED-backlit display. Although both displays are adequate, I prefer the HP’s screen because of its matte finish, which provides the user with a clearer screen picture, resisted fingerprints and was easy to clean with standard screen cleaners.
The Apple’s glossy screen is tough on the eyes especially when forced to sit in a classroom with your back to the windows, a glossy screen can be tough to see because of the extreme glare and is nearly impossible to clean fingerprints off with standard screen cleaners. Popular Mechanics discussed the topic, so you can understand the difference between matte and glossy screen differences and see how others weigh in.
Weight
Lugging a stack of books, notepads and a laptop from one end of campus to the other can be tough on the back, so weight is a big factor in determining the preferred notebook. The HP laptop’s weight stacks up at 5.2 lbs, while the MacBook Pro we
ighs in at 5.5 lbs. However, I like the feel of the MacBook better than the HP because the weight feels more evenly distributed throughout the machine. HP’s feels heavier on one side, but that could be just my imagination. Although the MacBook adds another .3 pounds to my backpack, the discrepancy is minor. The laptopauthority.com website cites additional information on the positives and negatives of different laptop sizes and weights.
Available Slots
Plugging in USB storage, printers, mp3 players, digital cameras and an external mouse all at the same time is a monumental task for any computer, but hands down the HP takes on what a student would throw at it. The HP offers a power port, Ethernet, phone connection, SD, SC and SV ports, audio in and out, 3 USB ports and DVD drive. The MacBook Pro offers a power port, Ethernet, FireWire, Mini Display Port, 2 USB ports, SD card, and audio in and out, battery indicator lights and DVD drive.
Side view of the MacBook
Most students need a bunch of USB ports for printers, USB drives and an external mouse and clearly the MacBook fails. The MacBook struggles to offer students variety, neglecting other video card slots besides the SD and forgot about those still trying to get their parents to upgrade from dial-up internet. The HP laptop has all the bases covered.
Battery Life
Power outlets are scarce around most campuses, so battery life is another huge consideration. The HP laptop features a battery life of 4.5 hours and offers the option of swapping out with another external battery. The MacBook Pro, however, does not offer this option, but offers an internal battery with an impressive 7 hours of life.
For me, this issue is a bit of a toss-up. Although the MacBook has a longer battery life, there are consequences for only having an internal battery-namely the cost of replacing it when it eventually loses its ability to keep a charge, which is usually about 300 “cycles” for this computer. (See MacRumors.com for more info.) The benefit of the HP is that replacement batteries are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
Price
It looks good. It has the basic criteria, so how much? The HP 6230 Series PC reigns in at $1709 at the manufacturer’s website. The MacBook Pro, from Apple’s website, claims they start at $1199, but while doing my research, didn’t actually find one at this price. I consulted a major electronics retailer, Best Buy and found they average about $1700, the same as the HP.
HP offers a 3 –year limited warranty on their laptop, quite lengthy for a manufacturer (HP). Apple offers a one-year limited warranty on their laptops, so you may want to consider additional coverage. Extended warranties may also be available, so consider the continued coverage and shop around, different retailers offer extended warranties, and verify that you understand what is covered and any deductibles you may be liable for.
All things considered, both computers have their advantages and disadvantages. Each student needs to carefully evaluate their needs and preferences before taking the leap to by a new laptop. Students should take plenty of time to familiarize themselves with the features of the laptop and ensure that they are comfortable before the semester begins. Other advice on selecting a new laptop is offered at howtodothings.com.
Overall Rating
Apple’s MacBook Pro 3/5
Hewlett Packard’s 6230 Series PC 4/5
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