Hi everyone, I’m trying to decide between the M3 2024 MacBook Pro for $1499 or the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 for $1699. I’m currently doing a networking course and working on my CCNA certification. I need something reliable that lasts at least 8-10 hours while I’m out. It should also work well with my Windows desktop at home. I use both an iPhone 13 Pro Max and a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, so I’m familiar with both ecosystems. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
I’d go with the Galaxy Book. It runs Windows, so it’s likely to be compatible with everything you need for school and should integrate well with your current setup.
Zane said:
I’d go with the Galaxy Book. It runs Windows, so it’s likely to be compatible with everything you need for school and should integrate well with your current setup.
No way a Windows laptop is going to last 8-10 hours on battery.
@Dallas
Some can, especially with ultra-efficient processors like Snapdragon or Intel Ultra CPUs.
Pip said:
@Dallas
Some can, especially with ultra-efficient processors like Snapdragon or Intel Ultra CPUs.
I doubt it.
@Dallas
Actually, it’s possible. My laptop lasted 6 hours on battery saving mode even after years of use.
@Dallas
Modern processors like AMD Ryzen or Intel Core Ultra are efficient enough to handle that kind of battery life.
@Dallas
Yep, the new Intel Ultra and AMD Zen 5 CPUs are perfect for this kind of usage.
This might not be the best forum. People here might lean toward the Samsung option.
Sable said:
This might not be the best forum. People here might lean toward the Samsung option.
Where should I ask instead?
Sable said:
This might not be the best forum. People here might lean toward the Samsung option.
Where should I ask instead?
Try the ‘computers’ forum.
Sable said:
This might not be the best forum. People here might lean toward the Samsung option.
You missed the point. OP asked for a comparison between the MacBook and Galaxy Book, not just random Windows laptops.
@Eli
But this forum is focused on Samsung, so you’re likely to get Samsung-biased answers.
Sable said:
@Eli
But this forum is focused on Samsung, so you’re likely to get Samsung-biased answers.
Fair point, but maybe OP wanted opinions from people who are familiar with Samsung.
@Eli
If that’s the case, I get it. But asking here will still skew toward Samsung.
For your use, I’d suggest the Samsung. More programs are compatible with Windows, and it offers great features for school.
Get whichever handles virtual systems better. Don’t you want to test things like switch configurations in virtual environments? If so, a Windows laptop might be better. Otherwise, pick the one you’re most comfortable with.
@Blair
I wouldn’t go for a Samsung laptop. Lenovo or Dell would be a better choice for Windows. If you prefer macOS, go for a MacBook with enough RAM to handle virtual machines.
@Blair
I’m not sure how to compare these laptops without buying and returning them. My desktop is powerful enough for heavy tasks, but I’m concerned about laptop thermals and battery life. Also, what are the trade-offs of using macOS for networking work?
Personally, I’d pick the Samsung. It’s just better overall.