Refurb PowerBook vs MacBook Pro

[xebeche]

I'm in the market for a new notebook. I recently returned a defective MacBook and haven't purchased a new system because I've caught wind of the potential Merom release. I know anticipating Apple's upgrades can be difficult, but my understanding is that the first shipments of the Core 2 Duo processors have begun shipping for Apple and another company only. This leads me to believe a MacBook Pro update is on its way.

Normally I'd simply wait, but I have the option of purchasing a refurbished version of the last 15" PowerBook (Dual-Layer DVD-RW) for a little less than $1200. A bottom of the line Merom MacBook Pro (whenever it will be released) will probably cost me $1800.

I'd love the extra power, but I honestly just need a portable machine to run Aperture/Photoshop and to do some school work. If I decide on the PowerBook I'd probably resell it in about a year. Would I lose a lot of money over eBay, is it even worth it?

All input is appreciated! :)

Jeremy

[Partial]

if you're gonna resell it in a year why not get the more expensive one and sell it for more. I am confident the MacBook pro will be worth closer to what you pay in a year than the PowerBook will be

[Banana]

I thought there's refurb MacBook Pro already? If there are, you might as well get them instead of a refurb PB...

[Fahrenheit]

I hope, that as a school student, you have a full license for aperture ($299) and Photoshop ($649)? ;)

I'd personally go with the PowerBook, although with the MacBook Pro you will get more speed, Photoshop will run slow- and the PB will be significantly cheaper. Specially if you are going to resell in the future. Peace out.

[xebeche]

I hope, that as a school student, you have a full license for aperture ($299) and Photoshop ($649)? ;)
Actually, for college students Aperture is $149 and Photoshop is $299. I'm not making money off my photography...yet. So, why pay more? :P

I'm still torn over the topic, so I think it's wise to wait it out until WWDC has come and gone. Even if new MacBook Pros aren't released there, hopefully we'll have more of an idea when.

[JayReding]

Yeah, there's a pretty good chance that the MBP will get a bump with the Core 2 Duo, so it might be worth waiting to see what Apple does.