Originally Posted by MapleLeaf

An equivalent Mac would be $1,100 - $1,200... trying to figure out if it is worth the extra $$ (ie less hassle, less time intensive, last longer etc.- I think my current laptop should have lasted longer than 2.5 yrs, but it doesn't seem to want too)

There is an Apple Store walking distance from me. Don't know if they will give me the educational discount though... my student card is from a Canadian University. Also with exchange, it is cheaper to purchase in Canada, but then I have more taxes to contend with - so probably balances out.