Hello David. I recently upgraded my white Macbook to a 7200 RMP drive and I have had zero issues with heat and vibration. Honestly, I have felt no difference between the new and old 5400RPM drive. The only difference is the performance. You should recommend that he gets a Hitachi or WD drive. I can also tell you that my macbook runs at the same exact temperature as it did with the 5400 RPM drive.