Instead of making life easier for the user, which was what I once advocated for Steve Jobs Apple seems to be doing the opposite. Take, for example, the MacBook line - now there are three varieties of it (ultra-thin 12-inch, thin Air and powerful Pro), so it is quite difficult for a potential buyer to figure out which laptop to choose. If you are not well versed in grocery Apple line or you can’t make a choice, we will try to help you with this.
First, let's define the characteristics of Apple laptops:
- MacBook is a 12-inch ultra-thin laptop (thickness varies from 0.35 cm to 1.31 cm), weight 0.92 kg.
- MacBook Air is a 13-inch thin laptop (thickness from 0.3 cm to 1.7 cm), weight 1.35 kg.
- MacBook Pro (in in this case we will talk about two versions of laptops at once) - a powerful productive laptop with a screen diagonal of 13 and 15 inches, a thickness of 1.49 cm and a weight of 1.37 kg.
Display
This is perhaps one of the most important points to pay attention to when choosing a model. The fact is that the latest Apple laptops are equipped with excellent Retina displays, providing high-quality images with rich colors. The new MacBook screens are much better than most Windows competitors.
Simple arithmetic applies here - than bigger screen, the larger the work area, but the more you will have to carry, and weight can be critical.
The MacBook has a 12-inch diagonal screen with a resolution of 2304 x 1440 (16:10) and a density of 226 ppi. This is exactly what a Retina display is, you really won’t be able to see the pixels with the naked eye, and the picture quality will pleasantly surprise you.
The MacBook Air is available only as a model with a 13-inch display (the 11-inch model has been discontinued) with a resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels (16:10) and a density of 128 ppi. This is a standard pixel density, and from a normal distance the “grain” of the screen is noticeable.
MacBook Pro comes in 13-inch with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels (16:10) and a density of 227 ppi, or 15-inch with a resolution of 2880 x 1800 (16:10) and a density of 220 ppi. Both screens are also Retina.
If we talk about the MacBook Pro 2016, they have a wider color gamut, so the colors look even brighter and more realistic. Other modifications use standard sRGB screens and display fewer colors than reality. MacBook Pro latest generation provide a wider P3 color gamut - the color space becomes 25% wider, and with big amount Image colors look brighter, more realistic and allow you to see even more details. If you take a photo taken on an iPhone and compare it to the exact same photo in HDR, you'll see what we're talking about.
- If you want a high-quality picture and don't need a large work area, feel free to choose a MacBook.
- For full graphics work, any MacBook Pro is better suited.
- If color accuracy is a fundamental issue for you, then we recommend looking towards the MacBook Pro 2016.
External monitors
MacBooks are often used as a portable computer, to which external monitors can be connected if necessary. For example, at home or at work. And here too there are some nuances.
The MacBook can be connected to the monitor via USB-C or via HDMI (if an adapter is available). Here it should be immediately noted that at the same time you will not be able to charge the laptop, since it only has one connector. You can connect a monitor with a resolution of up to 3840 x 2160 pixels (30 Hz), or up to 4096 x 2160 pixels (24 Hz).
MacBook Air only works with Thunderbolt monitors with a resolution of up to 3840x2160 pixels.
The capabilities of the MacBook Pro are much wider: a monitor with a resolution of 3840x2160 pixels is connected using Thunderbolt (you can have two at once), but if you bought a top-end package (with AMD Radeon R9 M370X), then you can connect a monitor of 5120x2880 pixels (60 Hz). "Proshka" also works with displays with resolutions of 1920x1080 (60 Hz), 3840x2160 (30 Hz) and 4096x2160 (24 Hz).
The 13-inch MacBook Pro 2016 supports connecting one monitor with a resolution of 5120x2880 (5K), but the 15-inch works with two such screens at once. Therefore, if you plan to use two external monitors, you should choose the MacBook Pro.
Camera
Perhaps one of the few elements in Apple laptops that requires serious improvement. The company allows you to use FaceTime video calling not only on the iPhone, but also on the MacBook, and video calls in general do not lose their relevance.
The 12-inch MacBook has a 480p camera, which is, to put it mildly, rather weak. The remaining models use a camera that shoots in 720p resolution. Even the newest MacBook Pro is 1080p front cameras portable Apple computers do not support. Actually, the choice here is simple - if you want high-quality video shooting, buy an additional camera with a USB connection.
CPU
Processor - second important point, which is worth paying attention to when choosing a MacBook. Hardware affects performance, and we need to understand for what tasks we are buying a laptop.
MacBook is considered the weakest laptop in terms of performance. The 12-inch model is based on chips Intel Core M with Skylake architecture, which are significantly weaker than Core i5 or i7. On the plus side, this processor doesn't require a fan, and the smallest MacBook is completely silent. Apple offers configurations with M3, M5 or M7 chips - they differ in performance, but not much.
The MacBook Air uses an outdated chip with Broadwell architecture, but it is a proven Intel Core i5 or i7, depending on the configuration. This laptop is more powerful than the previous one, although it is worth remembering about weak displays.
The MacBook Pro runs on Skylake (13-inch), the 15-inch version runs on Broadwell. Both laptops, depending on the diagonal, are equipped Core processor i5 (2.7 GHz and 2.8 GHz) or Core i7 (3.1 GHz and 2.8 GHz).
MacBook Pro 2016 runs on Skylake with almost identical parameters: 13 inches - Core i5 (2.0 GHz), Core i7 (2.4 GHz); 15 inches - Core i7 (2.6 GHz, 2.7 GHz, 2.9 GHz); Version with Touch Bar— Core i5 (2.9 GHz, 3.1 GHz), Core i7 (3.3 GHz)
- If you want a thin and beautiful laptop but with decent performance, choose the M7-based MacBook.
- If you need a portable machine, but with better performance– MacBook Air.
- If you need a powerful laptop for everyday use– your choice is MacBook Pro.
- If you need a top-end laptop for complex tasks like video rendering, you'll have to fork out for a 15-inch MacBook Pro 2016 and forget about upgrading for three years.
Graphic arts
Apple laptops don't have super-powerful graphics, and you're unlikely to be able to fully play video games on a MacBook. Again, a lot depends on the configuration - the GPU power may not be enough to comfortably play games rich in 3D graphics, but Apple laptops can handle complex multimedia content quite well.
The MacBook uses the simplest Intel HD Graphics 515, which is enough to work on one Retina screen. The MacBook Air runs on HD Graphics 6000, which is better than the MacBook, but still may not be enough to handle complex processes.
The 2015 MacBook Pro is equipped with an Intel HD Graphics 6100 chip, which is slightly more powerful integrated graphics than the MacBook Air. The top version provides a fairly powerful AMD video card Radeon R9 M370X with 2 GB GDDR5 memory.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro 2016 received Intel Iris Graphics 540 (model without Touch Bar) and Intel Iris Graphics 550 (with Touch Bar) with the ability to upgrade to Radeon Pro 450/460. The 15-inch has Intel HD Graphics 530 and discrete graphics Radeon Pro 455 / 460.
The choice here is obvious - to work with multimedia content, you should take a closer look at the MacBook Pro 2015 or MacBook Pro 2016.
Autonomy
Everyone understands how important time is battery life laptops. Whether you are flying on a plane, traveling on a train or bus, or even just sitting with a laptop in the park, these “last” 15-20 minutes are usually not enough to finish an important report, finish a presentation, or watch an interesting video. Wherever we need a working computer, and there are no sockets nearby, an additional plus to the laptop’s autonomy will not be out of place.
Fortunately, the MacBook has no problems with this - all models work without recharging for a very long time.
- MacBook: 10 hours of browsing, 11 hours of video playback, 30 days of standby time.
- MacBook Air: 12 hours browsing, 12 hours video playback, 30 days standby time.
- MacBook Pro 13 inches: 10 hours of browsing, 12 hours of video playback, 30 days of standby time.
- MacBook Pro 15 inches: 9 hours of browsing, 9 hours of video playback, 30 days of standby time.
- MacBook Pro 2016: 10 hours of browsing, 10 hours of video playback, 30 days of standby time.
If battery life is a key factor for you, the 13-inch MacBook Air is worth a look.
RAM
The more random access memory in a laptop, the more applications you can run simultaneously without reducing performance, process photos or videos.
The MacBook only offers one option: 8GB 1866MHz LPDDR3 memory
The 13-inch MacBook Air also only comes with 8GB of RAM.
MacBook Pro 2015: 8 or 16 GB 1866 MHz LPDDR3 RAM for the 13-inch version. The 15-inch MacBook Pro 2015 has 16 GB of 1600 MHz DDR3L memory.
MacBook Pro 2016: 8 GB 1866 MHz LPDDR3 RAM for the model without Touch Bar, upgradeable to 16 GB. 13-inch MacBook Pro 2016 with touch panel The Bar is equipped with 8 or 16 GB of 2133 MHz LPDDR3 memory. The 15-inch model is offered with 16 GB of 2133 MHz LPDDR3 memory.
- If RAM is important to you, choose the MacBook Pro.
SSD drive
MacBook: 256GB PCIe SSD, upgradeable to 512GB.
MacBook Air: 128 GB, expandable to 256 GB or 512 GB.
MacBook Pro 2015: 13-inch – 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB; 15-inch – 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB.
MacBook Pro 2016: 13-inch – 256 GB, 1 TB; 15-inch – 256 GB, 512 GB, 2 TB.
Ports
MacBook: one USB-C, 3.5mm audio jack.
MacBook Air: two USB port, one Thunderbolt 2 port, an SD memory card slot, and a 3.5 mm audio jack.
MacBook Pro 2015: two USB ports, two Thunderbolt ports, an HDMI port, an SD slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
MacBook Pro 2016: two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports for the version without Touch Bar, four Thunderbolt 3 ports for the version with Touch Bar, while on the 13-inch model two of them do not work at full capacity.
Force Touch trackpad and keyboard
Force Touch technology allows you to press with force. To do this, you need to press down on the trackpad and then apply additional force. In this way you can activate additional features many Mac programs and system features. The Force Touch trackpad is available on MacBook and MacBook Pro.
Laptop keyboards are different - the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro 2015 are equipped with conventional keyboards with a mechanism called “scissors”, which has one significant drawback - the keys are slightly loose around the edges. If you press such a key closer to the edge, it may hit the bottom before the mechanism registers the press.
The 2016 MacBook and MacBook Pro feature a new keyboard that uses a butterfly mechanism. It is a solid element made of more rigid materials with a larger support area. Thanks to this, the keys are more stable, respond more accurately to pressing and at the same time take up less space in height.
Colors
MacBooks are available in different color options. MacBook Air and MacBook Pro 2015 are available in silver, the MacBook is available in four shades (silver, gold, space gray, rose gold), the MacBook Pro 2016 is available in two colors (silver, space gray).
conclusions
The MacBook is perfect for managers and travelers who need the thinnest and lightest laptop with modern technologies for comfortable work.
The MacBook Air will be the choice for those who need the most affordable laptop from Apple - the device still has almost all the necessary ports, but the model itself is quite outdated.
MacBook Pro 2015 is a good and high-quality laptop with all ports; it is suitable as an alternative to a desktop computer for almost any user. Although it is not very convenient for travel.
Well, if you need the most advanced and productive laptop, choose the MacBook Pro 2016 (but remember that the “apple” no longer lights up there, if this is important to you).
What is the difference between a MacBook and a laptop? This question can often be seen on forums and comments under various articles about computer technology. However, initially the question was posed absolutely incorrectly. What is a laptop? In modern times, this is a compact computer that contains all the basic elements desktop computer, and accumulator battery, capable of holding a charge at active work from 1 to 9 hours. These have been sorted out. What is a MacBook? This is a laptop by definition, named differently by the manufacturing company.
Why do people so often perceive these concepts as completely different things? For the most part, all modern laptops initially run Windows, while the MacBook has a unique Mac OS X, developed by Apple specifically for its devices. Therefore in the minds ordinary users, a laptop and a MacBook are different things precisely because of the differences in the OS, and they calmly compare which is better. Another strange fact is that when purchasing a MacBook, people rush to install their native and beloved Windows on it, without even trying the original operating system. It is better to buy a laptop from another company that is optimized for it. Consider a MacBook and any other laptop.
Cons of Mac OS X
In order not to seem biased, let us first consider the disadvantages of the system. The first disadvantage is that the operating system is designed and optimized only for Apple devices. That is, you can install Windows on a Mac laptop, but the OS X operating system will not work on any Samsung. Even if you managed to install it on your laptop in some unknown way, it is unlikely to lead to anything good.
The second feature can be called high price category. Yes, these are not budget gadgets. You spend a considerable amount of money on them, and if you need a laptop for gatherings in social network, a MacBook is simply not needed. The latest models of gadgets often feature updated Mac systems OS X, working even more clearly and well. The MacBook itself and the iPhone also do not stand still. Every year new modifications are released that amaze the entire civilized world. Naturally only in a good way.
The third disadvantage is the most noticeable - a very small number of applications, programs and games that are optimized for the system. Of course, many developers are already trying to correct this injustice, but it is not happening as quickly as we would like.
Pros of Mac OS X
It’s not even worth talking about the advantages for a long time. Advantages: simple controls with various Easter eggs; easy installation and update operating system; Stable operation better than any other system; a small number of “pests”; a simple and at the same time skillful security system (we are talking about passwords and other security mechanisms); availability of various drivers.
Cons of Windows
A Windows laptop often causes irritation due to software incompatibility. Microsoft at one time chose a profitable path, producing hardware for the OS from various manufacturers. And given the love of people in the post-Soviet space for “pirated” versions of the operating system, you will have to forget about licensed technical support. How much malicious files missed your antivirus?
The second mistake we can name is the huge amount of energy that a laptop with Windows absorbs. It's best to take Charger always with you. You can work autonomously for only 4-5 hours. This is especially noticeable on older computer models. And games will generally eat up the charge in 1.5-2 hours. Therefore, no mobility. Do you want to sit in a cafe alone? Look for a place just next to an outlet. Do you like to travel? Well, then the laptop will happily sit for a couple of days without working if you forgot the charger.
The interface can also be considered a disadvantage, although people accustomed to stability may disagree. The bottom toolbar is clear and simple, but the Start menu is completely out of place. Also, the interface is often overloaded, there is absolutely no consistency.
Pros of Windows
We can honestly admit that the amount of software released over the entire period of its existence different versions The OS is simply amazing. Standard programs, however, leave much to be desired, but you can easily replace any of them.
Microsoft constantly corrects the system, releasing a large number of patches annually, updating and problem solvers operating system. This is good news, because raw versions often simply need improvements.
Optimization large quantity programs and games that “sit like a glove” on the system. Of course, if the laptop itself allows you to do this. To be honest, the system is loved by a very large number of people due to the availability of a large number of “perks”. All these are also significant advantages.
Bottom line
Now you can make your own choice, choosing based on your own wishes. We advise, nevertheless, to lean towards the MacBook, because, despite its price, it will serve for a long time and with dignity. But the decision is always yours in almost everything! After all, only you know what is best for you.
Which Apple laptop is the best? Light as a feather MacBook Air, or reliable and powerful MacBook Pro? Have you decided it's time to trade in your old Mac for one of Apple's new laptops? Or maybe you've finally decided to switch to the Mac platform? MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, MacBook Pro with Retina display - a lot of options. Keep in mind that these models cover a wide price range. What will you get for the money that you still planned to part with? And which model is right for you? Let's figure it out.
New MacBook models and price tag
Apple's MacBook line consists of two products: MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. These two laptops differ in size, weight, and performance. Well, for the price, of course.
MacBook Air is Apple's lightest laptop. It comes in two different screen sizes - 11-inch and 13-inch. This is Apple's most inexpensive laptop. Prices start at $999 for the 11-inch model, and $1,099 for the 13-inch.
Base models of both sizes of this year's MacBook Air feature processors Intel Haswell with a frequency of 1.3 GHz, 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB SSD. On the 2013 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro Retina models, HDD is now connected via PCI Express or PCIe. This is significantly faster than the Serial ATA (SATA) interface used in last year's systems.
You can order a MacBook Air with a faster processor, more RAM, and hard drive increased size. Please note that the processor cannot be changed later. The SSD hard drive can be upgraded, although this is quite difficult - Apple does not release separate ones for sale SSD drives, so if you decide you need more storage space, you'll either have to borrow a hard drive from another MacBook Air or contact service center, which will help you do this.
The latest generation "standard" 13-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,199. These Macs have an internal "SuperDrive" optical drive. It has 4 GB of RAM and a 500 GB hard drive working with a SATA controller. This makes the MacBook Pro quite snappy, even though it still uses a regular hard drive rather than an SSD. The processor operates at a frequency of 2.5 GHz. This is a fairly fast processor that works well in conjunction with good RAM. Also, various data storage options are provided, including a classic hard drive or SSD.
For $1299 you can purchase new MacBooks Pro with Retina display. It is equipped with 2.4GHz dual core Intel processor i5, 4 GB RAM and 128 GB SSD. The Retina display found on MacBook Pros is connected internally optical drive, as a result of which models with a Retina display are thinner and lighter than “traditional” phones.
The 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display completes Apple's line of laptops. It is equipped with a 2.0 GHz quad-core Intel i7 processor, 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD. It uses an integrated Intel graphics Iris Pro. This year, the model with a Retina display is the only 15-inch model Apple is making. It retails for $1,999.
It’s worth mentioning separately about the more expensive 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display - this is the only model that is equipped with a fast discrete graphics chip. It is equipped with a 2.3 GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, also includes discrete graphics Nvidia GeForce GT 750. This is the top model made by Apple, so its price is appropriate - $2,599. Like other MacBooks, the MacBook Pro with Retina display can be customized with more fast processors or a large hard drive.
Comparing screens by size and pixel density
MacBook Airs aren't yet available with a Retina display—both the 11-inch and 13-inch models feature classic LED panels. The 11-inch MacBook Air has a resolution of 1366 x 768, while the 13-inch model uses 1440 x 900 pixels.
The MacBook Air's 11-inch display is a bit of an outlier—the screen has a different aspect ratio than any other MacBook model. Most MacBooks come with 16:10 aspect ratio screens; and the 11-inch MacBook Air has a 16:9 aspect ratio screen. This results in the 11-inch MacBook Air having a more elongated display than other MacBook models.
Either way, the 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Air models have pixel densities of 135 pixels per inch (PPI) and 128 PPI, respectively. These are sharp and crisp displays that are capable of displaying millions of colors, even though they don't have Retina resolution.
As does the $1,199 MacBook Pro. This is a fast model with a native resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels, equipped with a 13.3-inch display. It's in the same segment as the MacBook Air, with a pixel density of around 113 PPI.
The concept of “Retina display” came into fashion with the iPhone 4 and soon Retina displays appeared on the iPad. Also, since 2012 we have seen the MacBook Pro with a Retina display. This doesn't mean the MacBook Pro has the same pixel density as, say, an iPhone 5S or iPad Mini Retina- this simply means that you will not be able to see individual pixels when looking at the screen from an average distance.
In this particular case, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display has a standard "Retina" resolution of 2560x1600 - that's even higher resolution than iPad Air. Although the screen is the same size as a standard 13-inch MacBook Pro, it has double the pixel density at 227 PPI. The 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display has a resolution of 2880 x 1800 pixels. This is about 220 PPI.
Difference between Retina display and standard screens is huge. Retina displays show more detail in photos and are much easier to read because they have smaller pixels. Naturally, you can judge the difference yourself at any Apple store or reseller.
Haswell platform
With the exception of the "standard" 13-inch MacBook Pro, which is a holdover from Apple's 2012 product line, all MacBooks now come with an Intel processor fourth generation, which is known by the code name "Haswell".
Haswell is an improvement over the Ivy Bridge chips found in last year's models. They include a smaller die size and have improved power management, which is why this year's MacBook models have such improved battery life.
Haswell-equipped MacBooks also have a decent graphics subprocessor. According to Apple, tests have shown that the processor's integrated Haswell graphics are up to 40 percent faster than before.
In the MacBook chain, graphics power gradually improves along with price. The MacBook Air uses Intel HD 5000 graphics, while the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display uses an Iris chip, which is faster than the Intel HD 5000. The 15-inch MacBook Pro uses Iris Pro, which is even faster thanks to the addition of memory EDRAM. The most expensive 15-inch model uses a discrete Nvidia GeForce GT 750 graphics chip, which is automatically activated when running resource-intensive games. graphic applications, such as games or Photoshop.
Battery life
An important aspect of a laptop's performance is how long you can use it away from an electrical outlet. After all, what's the point of carrying around a power bank all the time that adds weight to your bag? So the main idea is lost - to have a laptop computer.
The tiny 11-inch MacBook Air lasts about 9 hours on a single charge when surfing the web, and about 8 hours when watching videos. The 13-inch MacBook Air, which has almost a third more battery capacity, can run up to 12 hours on a single charge. This model rules the roost in battery capacity tests.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display, despite its screen with high resolution, battery life is an impressive 9 hours. And the 15-inch MacBook Pro Retina has a battery life of 8 hours, despite all its powerful hardware inside.
The standard 13-inch MacBook Pro, with its hardware from 2012, has a battery life of approximately 7 hours.
Wireless connections
This year's entire lineup of laptops, except the $1,199 MacBook Pro, comes with 802.11ac wireless. In practice, an 802.11ac-equipped Mac is capable of transferring data over wireless communication up to three times faster than 802.11n Wi-Fi found on older machines like the standard MacBook Pro.
Naturally, the signal transmission must be carried out with base stations 802.11ac format, such as the new AirPort Extreme or Time Capsule from Apple or other equipment operating in the same range. Otherwise, your new MacBook Pros won't make the most of 802.11ac speeds.
The Bluetooth 4.0 module is installed in the entire line of laptops from Apple.
External connectors
MacBook Air has two USB ports 3.0 and one Thunderbolt port. The Thunderbolt connector can be used to connect to an external monitor, RAID system, and other devices. The 13-inch MacBook Air adds an SDXC card slot, making it easy to import photos and videos from SD cards to your computer.
SDXC card slots are standard on MacBook Pro with Retina display. They are also the first Apple laptops to support Thunderbolt 2. This is a high-speed interface that transfers data twice as fast as the original Thunderbolt. What's more, there are two Thunderbolt 2 ports. There are also two USB 3.0 ports and an HDMI connector, so you can connect the MacBook Pro directly to an HDTV if necessary.
$1,199 MacBook Pro has built-in Gigabit Ethernet, FireWire 800, one Thunderbolt port, two USB 3.0 ports, and an SDXC card slot.
operating system
All new Macs come preinstalled with OS X 10.9 Mavericks. Mavericks, released in October 2013, features new UI elements like Finder tabs, as well as new apps like a redesigned Calendar, Maps, and iBooks. iCloud integration has increased significantly, so you'll notice improved workflow efficiency when you share files and data between your Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
But what really makes Mavericks an exceptional OS is the way Apple has redesigned its internals to improve performance and battery life. Laptops running Mavericks will last longer than before thanks to important changes like Timer Coalescing and App Nap. Thanks to them, it was possible to use processor resources more efficiently.
Who should buy a MacBook Air?
I would compare the MacBook Air to a roadster like the Mazda Miata. It looks airy and flying over the waves. But once you get behind the wheel, you get a completely different feeling - it's flexible, nimble and a lot of fun to drive.
For the same reason, the MacBook Air is very pleasant to use; its PCIe-coupled holistic architecture makes it fast and responsive. Mac users who surf the web will enjoy performance software, graphics and design. The MacBook Air is a perfectly balanced machine that does a lot without costing a fortune.
The disadvantage is the limited memory capacity. 128 GB may not be enough for everyone. But there is an inexpensive solution - external hard disk.
Who should buy the standard one?MacBook Pro?
The standard MacBook Pro sits between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro with Retina display. It plays an important role in the Apple ecosystem: it's a laptop for people who need much more space than they can afford with an SSD-equipped system or built-in optical storage.
The downside is that it lacks fast Wi-Fi, high-speed graphics and better battery life, like this year's models. Thus, it is a compromise solution. It can be said that the 13-inch MacBook Pro remains a popular choice for many users. This is the Mac for those looking for a good, reliable laptop with a lot of features. That's why Apple kept it in the current lineup. If you are looking powerful computer with a large amount of memory, then this is a great option.
Who should buy a MacBook Pro withRetina display?
At $1,299, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina display is the best in its class. Its size fits most people. The price is also not overpriced. Don't forget that this year's MacBook models are faster than ever, thanks to powerful processors and installed Mavericks.
If you work with heavy graphics and video, you must work on a laptop that can quickly edit large files, such as Photoshop. Well, if you want to achieve maximum performance, then the 15-inch MacBook Pro will be yours the best solution. The Iris Pro graphics on it are simply amazing, and the discrete Nvidia graphics on the expensive version of the 15-inch MacBook Pro mean you don't have to compromise.
Still undecided?
If you're still having trouble deciding between MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Pro with Retina display, do some research before you go shopping. Additional information on the forums. Either way, you're looking at the best 2013 MacBook lineup, better than ever, and no matter your choice, you'll end up with best laptop which are sold on the market.
We hope this article will help you make your choice. If you have any questions or suggestions, be sure to leave them in the comments.
What is the difference between a MacBook and a laptop? A question from the authors - how does an iPhone differ from a smartphone... However, people in whose minds this kind of dilemma arises can be understood. The Apple company, which produces these devices, is guilty of naming gadgets after the name of the product class - smartphone/iPhone, MacBook/laptop - this creates confusion.
In fact, there is no fundamental difference between a Macbook and any other laptop. Even so, a MacBook is a laptop. And yet, the Apple laptop has quite a few differences from the classic one. In this article we will look at these differences.
Macbook model line
However, before talking about how a Macbook differs from any other classic laptop, it is necessary to say what types of the first exist.
Apple laptops have long been represented by two lines - Macbook Pro(Pro) and Macbook Air (Air, Air, Air), but more recently appeared New episode with a simple and concise name - Macbook - no prefixes or additions.
Macbook Pro is a line of powerful Apple laptops. The most advanced hardware and Retina displays in recent versions allow devices in this line to be easily replaced full-fledged computers for home and work tasks. Moreover, when we say “working”, we do not mean only classic office programs, such as typing and presentation utilities. Macbook Pro will satisfy even the most demanding graphic designer or design engineer, whose profession generally involves working in heavy programs - Photoshop, Autocad, etc.
Macbook Air is a more universal series. Laptops in this line are slightly less powerful, but at the same time they are thinner and lighter, and also show record autonomy. In short, the Macbook Air is perfect mobile laptop for everyday tasks, unless, of course, working in Photoshop is not your everyday task. No, of course, this device will easily open this and any other heavy program and allow you to work in it, but only the Macbook Pro will demonstrate lightning-fast, lag-free operation when working with these types of applications.
And finally, just a Macbook. This series is relatively new and it is difficult to say how Apple sees its future. We’ll just note that this device (the line is currently represented by one device) is a kind of lightweight version of the Air.
Macbook is the most beautiful in the world
Well, now let's talk about the differences. And the first thing is striking. The design is impeccable, no matter how you look at it. No laptop - and this is recognized by both Apple fans and critics - can boast such a perfect design as the Macbook.
Both the Air and Pro versions are very similar. There are differences, of course, but they are minimal and insignificant within the scope of this review. What do the models of all lines of Apple laptops have in common? All-metal thin aluminum body, minimalistic design, elegant “apple” on the lid, noble colors of the body, and generally incredibly high-quality and neat execution.
In short, if you are one of those for whom image is everything and thirst is nothing, then for you the difference between a Macbook and a traditional laptop is obvious already at the first stage of comparison.
Mac OS is my faithful friend
If you think that appearance in technology it’s not the main thing and everything is determined by productivity, then we move on. We have already talked about the power of Macbooks above, but the above information requires additions.
So, as you already understand, an Apple laptop, especially if we are talking about the current model listed on official sale, is a powerful thing. However, the device with powerful filling can be found from another manufacturer. That’s right, but only the Macbook can boast of an optimal combination - hardware + platform. And this, in fact, is very important, this is the very reason why a Macbook freezes and slows down extremely rarely, even if it was purchased several years ago. Agree, a classic Windows laptop can only dream of this. What's the matter?
The fact is that Apple itself creates devices and writes the Mac OS platform for them. With laptops from other companies, everything is different - the manufacturer designs the device and installs a ready-made Windows platform written by Microsoft on it. And here the same story begins as in the eternal confrontation between iPhone and iOS vs any other smartphone and Android. When the platform is optimally adjusted with all other hardware being equal, you can achieve more in all respects - performance, autonomy, etc.
Enough for a long time
Another difference between a MacBook and a classic laptop is autonomy. Here again the Macbook stands out positively. Macbook Air is a real unique product - productive and thin, but at the same time capable of working in quiet office mode for up to 12 hours without recharging! This is generally an impressive figure for a laptop, not to mention an ultra-thin and powerful device. The Macbook Pro is a little behind in terms of battery life, because it is more powerful and has a Retina display, but the figure is still good - 10 hours.
In standby mode, Apple laptops can last up to 30 days! And by the way, getting back to the lightning-fast response and fast response - the Macbook wakes up from standby mode almost instantly - that is, you literally open the lid and the next second you can continue working. Even if you haven’t approached the device for a couple of weeks, it will still react with lightning speed.
A few words about the display
We are all already accustomed to high-definition displays in flagship smartphones, but laptops have a large diagonal and this kind of screen, as they say, costs a pretty penny. And yet, in the latest Macbooks Pro Apple I finally decided to install Retina displays, which no matter how much you look at, you can’t see an individual pixel. This, of course, is another advantageous difference from classic laptops.
However, Air laptops also do not have Retina displays, but, in fairness, it is worth saying that not everything comes down to clarity. Apple uses advanced technologies in designing screens, so in fact, the display of any Macbook compares favorably with most classic laptops.
Important pleasant little things
Well, it seems that the significant differences are over, but there are still some pleasant little things that simply cannot be left out without mentioning. After all, isn’t it the little things that make up the big picture? In fact, the complex of all the pleasant little things can only be appreciated once you start using a Macbook, but some catch your eye right away. Firstly, there is a huge trackpad that is a pleasure to operate. Secondly, the keyboard is comfortable - the buttons and the distance between them are not small even on compact Macbooks. Thirdly, the keyboard backlight is a great addition when working in low light conditions.
However, Apple laptops, of course, are not ideal - they also cannot do without unpleasant little things. The Apple giant, for example, really doesn’t like to make holes in its equipment, and therefore the set of connectors in the Macbook is minimal. In addition, as a rule, Apple laptops are equipped with a small amount of built-in memory, and although it can be expanded, what matters is what you have initially. And finally, the price. Like any product of the Apple giant, the Macbook is not cheap - the minimum price for the current model is about 60 thousand rubles, and for the cool Pro versions you will have to pay all 200 thousand!
Let's summarize
Well, in the broad sense of the word, a Macbook is a laptop. But if you take a closer look... Compared to a classic laptop, the Apple product has a lot of advantages, however, they all fade when you find out what Macbook cost. However, if you call a Macbook a premium laptop (and this, it seems to us, is the best epithet for this device), then everything will fall into place. And a lot of advantageous differences, and the price become logical.
It has long been no secret that Apple products have conquered almost the whole world. And this is far from an accident, since computers from this manufacturer have always been distinguished by the highest performance, as well as the quality of the components and assembly used. Even though the price of these devices is much higher than that of practically similar devices from competitors, the choice of buyers still falls on Apple gadgets.
If we talk about what the main advantages of Apple MacBook laptops are, we can say that this particular series is distinguished by significant power, which is perfect for professional work. In general, Macbooks are almost head and shoulders above all competitors on the market, at least that’s what both users themselves and employees of a huge number of service companies say.
However, even unsurpassed reliability does not provide a 100 percent guarantee that the machine will not break down and require professional repair. Our company invites each of you to use the services of truly emergency and fully professional computer assistance, and at the most low prices. Among our services that are available to each customer are the following:
- Reliable and prompt computer assistance in Maryino, as well as subscription services for individuals and various forms of ownership of organizations;
- The most thorough diagnostics and repair of laptops and other computer systems;
- We restore monitors, printers and other peripherals;
- You will need to install the latest software - also contact us;
- Interested in setting up the system and networks? wireless internet– we organize;
- We will replace any burnt components in the car;
- We will provide inexpensive but very reliable components and much more.
The main disadvantages of Apple MacBook laptops
We all understand perfectly well that having such an electronic assistant as a MacBook is simply wonderful. But if such a product breaks, the user will face significant expenses, as well as a considerable headache, because to actually carry out reliable recovery Not all computer services can. What are the main disadvantages of Apple MacBook laptops:
- Possibility of overheating of the video chip, which burns out almost instantly;
- Frequent malfunctions in the system motherboard that occur due to mechanical damage, as well as due to other reasons;
- Possible malfunction hard drive, which is quite difficult to reanimate;
- There is a breakdown of the system used to backlight the display and much more.
Which is better: MacBook or regular laptop?
Whatever you say, the main advantages of Apple MacBook laptops are visible almost immediately. This type of device has very productive server processors, which were developed in Intel. Also, the manufacturer took care of a powerful graphics device. Still, most potential buyers cannot decide which is better: a MacBook or a regular laptop.
Our service staff believe that you should only purchase an Apple computer if you have expanded financial capabilities and are willing to easily shell out several thousand for system repairs. Just as mentioned above, the machine in question is necessary for its intended use, namely to solve some complex and voluminous problems. In any case, the choice always remains with the buyer, and we are only ready to organize repair of Reutov laptops, which will definitely revive any device, no matter what manufacturer it is.
Information provided by the website remont-noytbukov.ru. Laptop repair company Laptop Service.