Need some help deciding which model to purchase. The macbook pro 13' with the i3 or put on best buy credit and purchase 15" macbook pro with i5. I realize the the memory is going to be a hell of a lot better. But keep in mind that I have very little money. If the 13" i3 can handle maya 2010 and zbrush. I'd rather go that way. Also, how do i5 model PC laptops pan out against Mac. Not trying to start a debate or controversy. Just trying to get the best bang for my buck.

Keep in mind that unlike the 15" models the 13" can't offically be upgraded to a snappier 7200rpm or SSD drive which could noticeably increase performance.

Considering the i3 13" macbook pro doesn't exist, this should be an easy decision for you to make.

Although daviangel points out that the 13" cannot be "officially" upgraded to an SSD drive, the Apple website begs to differ.

Here is the link that shows that the 13" can be upgraded to SSD:


http://store.apple.com/us/configure/MC375LL/A?mco=MTc0Njg1NzE

Thanks for shinning some light on that topic for me guys. I have been looking into i3's a lot, sorry bout that. I knew the 13" came with the duo. Still though what you recommend. I don't necessarily care for the SSD. More for just being able to run stock straight out of the box with maya 2009, and zbrush 3.2 for mac.

For both Maya and Zbrush (and particularly Zbrush) large amounts of RAM is more important that processor speed for modeling. For rendering you'll want a faster processor (like the i5).

the 15 inch is going to be more suited to modeling and rendering, both due to the dedicated graphics memory and higher screen resolution. but for the price you might be able to get a better workstation laptop for the price with better performance and graphics