Apple MacBook Pro 2008 Edition (Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz, 2GB RAM, 200GB HDD)

Pros: thin and fairly lightweight, keyboard and media outlets make for no clutter, loud speakers, larger trackpad than before, sexy aluminum finish everywhere, clear and sharp displays, OS X Leopard is TOO easy to learn and use (easier than Vista)

Cons: would like to have seen at least an additional USB Port, limited initial coverage (purchase of 3-year warranty a must), battery can get very warm

Summary: This is only my second generation of an Apple computer. I finally upgraded from my first computer which was the iBook G4 1.42 Ghz PowerPC at 14.1 inches. This is a very welcome upgrade and I have not been disappointed at all since upgrading.

The keyboard is very ergonomic. All of the media options that have their own sections on other PC Laptops come integrated into the F-row keys of the keyboard, requiring only the simple press of a button to operate (no shortcuts necessary). I chose a Matte over Glossy display because I only require simple multimedia use. Either way, this display is bright, crystal clear, and very sharp. Keys on the keyboard are large enough for big fingers, stress-less to press, and relatively quiet. The laptop itself is only several pounds in weight and is about the size of your average college textbook, yet is only one inch thin all the way around. As a doctoral student I carry it around quite often and can easily fit in my backpack . The exteriors of these high-level laptops are also made entirely of durable aluminum (not plastic), given their surface a very smooth, satisfying, and classy feel to them.

Only thing I personally felt apple could have probably done to make this machine even better was to add an additional USB port. Only having 2 USB ports makes it picky when I choose to hook up my peripheral devices.

Overall, this machine left this user extremely impressed with just about every expectation met. It is a much more costly machine, but the quality and support you get for what you pay will not leave you feeling ripped off - very much worth it!