<p>I'll be attending UNC-Chapel Hill next year for journalism. I have already decided that I'll be getting a Mac, for various reasons. I have a Dell laptop right now and it's been nothing but trouble...anyway, do any of y'all see any reasons that the extra $200 would be necessary? I'm not going to be making any purchases until later this spring, so I'm not really in a rush. I prefer the look of the Macbook Pro, but I also feel like the Macbook could be sufficient. I intend on using this computer for several years, so I want to take into consideration how long the laptop will last too. I am definitely going to be getting a Mac, so don't make any PC recommendations. :] Thank you!</p>
<p>There will be no notable performance difference… the only difference is one looks better and the other (macbook) looks worse and scratches easier. ( actually, very easy)</p>
<p>If you hate scratches and/or the color white $200 more may be worth it.</p>
<p>A agree with briangt the differences between the macbook and lowest level macbook pro is negligible. In fact with the cheapest Pro you ge a smaller hard drive than you wuld on the macbook.</p>
<p>The base macbook has one of the best price to specs ratio on the market. Though if you really wanted a macbook pro, never a bad choice.</p>
<p>I would get the MB Pro, simply because the backlit keyboard will be worth it and if you want to use it for a long time then you will love the aluminum.</p>
<p>Also if cost is a bit of a concern I have bought two macs refurbished from apple and had great luck. If you are saving more than 10% it will beat the student discount(in most cases).</p>
<p>I hope this helps!</p>
<p>Wait until Apple refreshes the entire Macbook line (which should be pretty soon), so you can compare the new models.</p>