New MacBook air or old MacBook pro?

I'm getting a Mac for college. The new Retina Pro is definately out of my price range. So should I go with the new Air (the $1599 one, with 8 GB ram and maybe upgraded CPU) or the old MacBook pro (in the same price range)? It will primarily be used for schoolwork/ personal things and maybe some games. Which one would be better to get?

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    I actually have a 13 inch Macbook Pro (the non-Retina, of course), and I personally love it. As of choosing between the Macbook Air and the Macbook Pro, that's basically preference. Would you prefer lightweight and portability over specs?

    PORTABILITY
    If you like to travel a lot, and you're not picky with sound or video editing quality or whatnot, then an Air is perfect for you. The MBP is about 4 times heavier than the Air (considering the Air weighs less than a pound.), but it does have a sturdier feel to it (which you get used to).

    FEATURES
    If you enjoy better graphics, sound, and editing abilities then a Pro may be something you want to purchase. Now, the Air does boot up and shut down faster. Personally though, I chose a Pro over the Air, because I prefer functionality over looks. Yes, the Air boasts a very slim profile, but the Pro offers a better experience watching movies, playing music, and even gaming (although the Retina version has BREATH-TAKING graphics, as a student, would we really blow a grand on a nicer screen?). There are some other great features of the MBP, like a fantastic microphone that sounds AMAZING with GarageBand and the RAM or GHz upgrade option that can keep me satisfied for years (The most expensive Air has a 1.8 GHz processor while the most expensive 13" Pro has a 2.9 GHz processor) Also, the Pro has an Ethernet port and an optical drive- which I still find VERY convenient.

    MEMORY
    Also, with a thin body, comes with smaller storage. If you're like me and you have a LOT of stuff you need to store (for instance, I have THOUSANDS of high-megapixel pictures that I need to save onto my laptop); well, a MB Air isn't going to cut it. The highest Air flash storage is 256 GB, while the highest Pro is at 750 GB.

    PRICE
    Both $1,500 for the most expensive 13".

    BOTTOM LINE
    It's all about weight vs. specs. Looks and portability is all in the Air, but if you invest in the Pro, and you'll get more bang for your buck.

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