New Uni-Body MacBook Pro: 10 Imperfections that Affect Real Life Usage
I’ve been using my new MacBook Pro for two weeks now and while it’s an impressive notebook it’s far from perfect. I know I shouldn’t be complaining too much considering Apple replaced my old MacBook Pro with the new 2.53GHz uni-body MacBook Pro free of charge, but there are a few things that really bug me.
Overall, the new MacBook Pro is definitely an improvement over the previous version in terms of performance and style, but I have high standards for a $2,499 notebook and I think too many people give Apple products a pass on their faults.
Here’s a list of 10 things that I don’t like about the new MacBook Pro.
1) Glossy Display: I really like matte displays, especially on “Pro” notebooks. In dim lighting conditions the display is beautiful, but the glossy display makes the MacBook Pro unreadable outdoors or while sitting with my back to a bright lighting source. The keyboard leaves little marks on the display, which is also a fingerprint magnet. If you enjoy staring at yourself all day you can count the glossy display as a positive I guess.
2) Long Battery Charge Times: It’s taken as long as six hours to charge my MacBook Pro’s battery. This is because Apple’s AC adapter isn’t powerful enough to run the MacBook Pro at full throttle. Instead, when I’m editing videos or taxing the processor, the MacBook Pro goes into a sort of “hybrid” energy mode, utilizing the battery for extra juice and halting the charging process.
Apple’s stated in a support document (via jkontherun):
If the battery is removed from a MacBook or MacBook Pro, the computer will automatically reduce the processor speed. This prevents the computer from shutting down if it demands more power than the A/C adaptor alone can provide.
This is really bothersome if you drain your battery all day and have limited access to an AC outlet. For tech conferences I am typically editing photos and videos when I’m plugged in, which means my MacBook Pro would NEVER charge.
I wanted to bring my new MacBook Pro to AMD’s Financial Analyst day for example, but I knew I wouldn’t have ready access to a power outlet. I also knew that I’d be doing a lot of video/photo work. The only solution to ensure all-day computing was to buy two extra MacBook Pro batteries at $139 a pop. Ouch…
3) Battery indicator: The older MacBook Pro batteries have a built-in LED indicator that displays how much charge is remaining. The new MacBook Pro has the battery indicator on the side of the notebook instead since the battery is hidden beneath a cover on the bottom of the computer.
The problem with this is that it’s impossible to tell which one of your batteries is charged or not. While I was at a meeting my MacBook Pro’s battery died and it wouldn’t turn on when I popped a new one in. The new one wasn’t charged obviously, so I had to swap in a third one.
Most notebook batteries don’t have this kind of indicator and it’s sad to see Apple drop this feature.
4) Overcrowded Ports: Not only did Apple drop FireWire 400 from the new MacBook Pro, but it jammed all of the ports onto its left side. The ports are so close together that it’s nearly impossible to use several of them at once.
Many USB devices are too wide. For example, when using my USB SD card reader I have to choose one of the two available USB ports. If I use the one towards the back of the MacBook Pro then the card reader blocks the FireWire 800 port AND the second USB port. If I use the USB port towards the front of the notebook then I block the display port and the second USB port.
I have to make the same choice when using my Sprint Compass 597 3G USB modem.
I tried using a friend’s 3G ExpressCard modem and it blocked the MacBook Pro’s headphone jack.
5) Hybrid Graphics switching: The new MacBook Pros have hybrid graphics, which allow for either battery savings by using an integrated NVIDIA graphics, or for improved graphics using the NVIDIA GPU. For changes to take effect you need to set your preferences in “Energy Savings” and log off. In practice, I leave my graphics setting on high and then when I unplug I forget to switch/logout. Apple should make a little popup reminder when you unplug to suggest you switch to your preset battery/plugged in preference.
6) Battery Cover: The battery cover is too difficult to snap back into place. It’s not impossible by any means, but there’s no slot/guide to aid in the process.
I feel like a klutz whenever I need to swap out a battery with the notebook on my lap. This makes changing the battery a balancing act if you don’t have a flat surface or in a confined space like an airplane or lecture hall. I don’t like having to shuffle four pieces of gear- my MacBook Pro, the battery cover and the two batteries I’m swapping.
Sure, having less seams looks better, but Apple’s chosen style over functionality again.
7) No remote: Luckily I have a remote from my old MacBook Pro, but it’s really annoying that Apple doesn’t include one with a $2,499 system while PC manufacturers provide them on $449 notebooks. Apple charges $19 for a compatible remote, which is white and doesn’t even match the look/feel of the new aluminum MacBooks/MacBook Pros.
8 ) No External Display Connectors: Apple’s new MacBooks and Macbook Pros have a Mini DisplayPort adapter, which is compatible with exactly ONE external display- the Apple 24-inch Cinema Display. This display costs $899 and isn’t on most MacBook/MacBook Pro owners’ shopping list.
I’m sure there will be more compatible external displays in the near future, but in the mean time you’ll need to buy a Mini DisplayPort-to-DVI ($29) adapter and a Mini DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter ($29).
My last MacBook Pro’s DVI-to VGA adapter does not plug into my DisplayPort-to-DVI adapter so I had to buy both.
9) Track Pad Issues: The new track pad doesn’t work all of the time. Clicks are ignored a small percentage of the time and the cursor freezes from time to time. Apple released a firmware update a couple of days ago and I haven’t experienced the problem since though.
10) No FireWire 400: I have lots of FireWire devices, including a FW800 SanDisk Compact Flash card reader. With my old MacBook Pro I could plug the reader into the FW800 port and an external hard drive into the FW400 port when I was short on hard drive capacity.
With the new MacBook Pro this setup is impossible, and you can’t chain together portable FireWire devices the same way you can with desktop FireWire devices, which typically FireWire in/out ports.
Bonus* 11) Mac Fanboys: Ok there’s nothing wrong with being a Mac fanatic, but I’ve had several run ins with Mac fans that are absolutely astonished that I don’t think the new MacBook Pro is the best thing since Steve Jobs himself. No notebook (MacBook or not) is perfect and some of them have reacted at some of the above comments as if I was personally attacking them.
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Xavier,
I agree with most of what your bringing up even though I don’t own a new Mac Book Pro, but I don’t think anyone has said that the new models are perfect.
I think they are an incredible step in the right direction regarding manufacturing, cost reduction, and green design, but its still definitely flawed when it comes to being the ultimate notebook.
I think Apple has not provided a remote because many previous Mac owners have stacks of these remotes laying around and considering they are $19… if you really need one what’s an extra $20 bucks? I think this is a cost cutting measure and environmental issue. Also why the latest Apple TV update can now learn to use your existing IR remote.
Numbers 5,8,9, & 10 are very valid as well. You also have to remember the difference between you and the average notebook user.
The new Mac Book Pro is the stepping stone in a new approach to innovation and green design. Thats why I always love to see what comes of the second or third revision when they work out the kinks.
Nice article.
Xavier,
I agree with most of what your bringing up even though I don’t own a new Mac Book Pro, but I don’t think anyone has said that the new models are perfect.
I think they are an incredible step in the right direction regarding manufacturing, cost reduction, and green design, but its still definitely flawed when it comes to being the ultimate notebook.
I think Apple has not provided a remote because many previous Mac owners have stacks of these remotes laying around and considering they are $19… if you really need one what’s an extra $20 bucks? I think this is a cost cutting measure and environmental issue. Also why the latest Apple TV update can now learn to use your existing IR remote.
Numbers 5,8,9, & 10 are very valid as well. You also have to remember the difference between you and the average notebook user.
The new Mac Book Pro is the stepping stone in a new approach to innovation and green design. Thats why I always love to see what comes of the second or third revision when they work out the kinks.
Nice article.
AMEN bro. I agree with everything you said. I had the original MBP and a later MBP and now the newest unibody MBP. Even the later model MPB (before Unibody) did not have the remote with it. The first one had display adapters and everything, not so with the later models and now the uni-body version. At the very least, I wish they had left just one USB port on the right side. I am very sad to see only the glossy display. To be completely honest, I would give my new uni-body back for the old MBP. Layout was better, screen was better, more connection options… better track pad, the list goes on.
AMEN bro. I agree with everything you said. I had the original MBP and a later MBP and now the newest unibody MBP. Even the later model MPB (before Unibody) did not have the remote with it. The first one had display adapters and everything, not so with the later models and now the uni-body version. At the very least, I wish they had left just one USB port on the right side. I am very sad to see only the glossy display. To be completely honest, I would give my new uni-body back for the old MBP. Layout was better, screen was better, more connection options… better track pad, the list goes on.
I agree with everything that you said. Even after the firmware update, my trackpad was giving me issues. On top of that, I noticed that several of the monitor hindges are rather loose and tend to close on you if you use them in an elevated position.
Additionally, the new MBP runs too hot for my liking. The bottom gets quite hot to the touch, and I clocked my CPU at 83 C running normal apps (safari, ichat, itunes) before the fans turn on. The 2.53 Ghz chip is only rated to run to 100 C.
There are definately quite a few imperfections, and for $2500, they have no earthly business being there. Asus model G50VT-X2 has the exact same specs as the MBP (with a faster 7200 rpm harddrive) and it costs $1400. If Apple outsources to China for production to cut costs, why haven’t the cost savings been passed down to us?
The other developing issue is that Apple began recommending the use of multiple anti-viris software apps for their systems. Three at a time, to be exact. Since then, apple has removed the recommendation but I have definately noticed a problem with 10.5.5. stability. You can read more here.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7760344.stm
A mac just isn’t what it once was. But for some reason, it still costs more than it should.
smc fan control to control the heat, and ive used a mac for ever, and have many friends that used macs forever – and never ever a single virus. the unibody mac is awesome, better than my vaio, better than any dell, better than hp. But i agree that it is priced wayy too high when apple has cut production costs, and when the company itself is making wayy more dough than a lot of its competitors.
I agree with everything that you said. Even after the firmware update, my trackpad was giving me issues. On top of that, I noticed that several of the monitor hindges are rather loose and tend to close on you if you use them in an elevated position.
Additionally, the new MBP runs too hot for my liking. The bottom gets quite hot to the touch, and I clocked my CPU at 83 C running normal apps (safari, ichat, itunes) before the fans turn on. The 2.53 Ghz chip is only rated to run to 100 C.
There are definately quite a few imperfections, and for $2500, they have no earthly business being there. Asus model G50VT-X2 has the exact same specs as the MBP (with a faster 7200 rpm harddrive) and it costs $1400. If Apple outsources to China for production to cut costs, why haven’t the cost savings been passed down to us?
The other developing issue is that Apple began recommending the use of multiple anti-viris software apps for their systems. Three at a time, to be exact. Since then, apple has removed the recommendation but I have definately noticed a problem with 10.5.5. stability. You can read more here.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7760344.stm
A mac just isn’t what it once was. But for some reason, it still costs more than it should.
smc fan control to control the heat, and ive used a mac for ever, and have many friends that used macs forever – and never ever a single virus. the unibody mac is awesome, better than my vaio, better than any dell, better than hp. But i agree that it is priced wayy too high when apple has cut production costs, and when the company itself is making wayy more dough than a lot of its competitors.
For the life of me, I would never ever buy a first generation ANYTHING from Apple. It is like playing a lottery or BETA testing the product. Things like low AC power, heat and extremely glossy screens and even high prices will probably be address somewhat in the next revision.
For the life of me, I would never ever buy a first generation ANYTHING from Apple. It is like playing a lottery or BETA testing the product. Things like low AC power, heat and extremely glossy screens and even high prices will probably be address somewhat in the next revision.
Very informative review. I haven’t seen many reviews of the MacBook Pro that had many valid negative points on it. This widen my eyes as I prepare to purchase one in 1Q2009.
Very informative review. I haven’t seen many reviews of the MacBook Pro that had many valid negative points on it. This widen my eyes as I prepare to purchase one in 1Q2009.
On top of all this, add two other issues…
1. CD/DVD now on side instead of front.
2. Started getting random Kernel Panics when plugging in external display while computer has been sleeping for about 20 minutes. These KP’s then turned into just Mac shutting down when plugging in while sleeping. Never had a problem with old MBP 17″. We will see if todays EFI firmware update fixes this.
On top of all this, add two other issues…
1. CD/DVD now on side instead of front.
2. Started getting random Kernel Panics when plugging in external display while computer has been sleeping for about 20 minutes. These KP’s then turned into just Mac shutting down when plugging in while sleeping. Never had a problem with old MBP 17″. We will see if todays EFI firmware update fixes this.
I simply hate it, it looks and feels like a PC, the MAC effect its gone in the nw MBP.
Im very sad that Apple went mainstream on this one i hope they reconsider changing back to theyr known style.
I simply hate it, it looks and feels like a PC, the MAC effect its gone in the nw MBP.
Im very sad that Apple went mainstream on this one i hope they reconsider changing back to theyr known style.
I think the real problem here is that too many of you don’t adapt well to change. “apples gone mainstream” “i dont like the glossy screen” “it looks and feels like a PC” get a grip and move with the time guys…if you spend two weeks using a bog standard dell and vista you wont be complaining anymore!
I think the real problem here is that too many of you don’t adapt well to change. “apples gone mainstream” “i dont like the glossy screen” “it looks and feels like a PC” get a grip and move with the time guys…if you spend two weeks using a bog standard dell and vista you wont be complaining anymore!
Joseph, I’m using several PC notebooks right now and I’m still complaining about the MacBook Pro. You expect more out of a $2,500 notebook.
Joseph, I’m using several PC notebooks right now and I’m still complaining about the MacBook Pro. You expect more out of a $2,500 notebook.
I think with the strenght and durability of the unibody, mac OSX and the amount of power under the hood for me its unbeatable. Also as far as design goes, you will never please anyone. for example, the problems that youve mentioned with the port layout can easily be over come by using a USB extension cable. and fair enough it might be something more to carry around, but i dont see how on the move you will be wanting to use the headphone and the firewire 800 at the same time!? also, can you give me the name and make of any other $2500 notebooks that even come close?
Joseph- I agree that you’ll never please everyone, but the MacBook Pro has really neglected real-world usability. OSX is the primary reason to buy the new MacBook Pro, and its styling is a close second.
If that’s your operating system of choice. In terms of performance comparisons- take a look at the HP Elitebook 8530w from HP or Dell’s Dimension. You can get quad-core processors and Blu-ray for under $3k.
It’s very easy to use several of the ports at once- using an external FW800 drive to edit a movie while using headphones for example. I really think any 15-inch notebook should have at least three or four USB ports, with at least one on each side. FW and headphones are far apart, but the Expresscard slot is jammed next to the headphone jack. If you use an ExpressCard WWAN modem and a headset you’re hosed.
I think with the strenght and durability of the unibody, mac OSX and the amount of power under the hood for me its unbeatable. Also as far as design goes, you will never please anyone. for example, the problems that youve mentioned with the port layout can easily be over come by using a USB extension cable. and fair enough it might be something more to carry around, but i dont see how on the move you will be wanting to use the headphone and the firewire 800 at the same time!? also, can you give me the name and make of any other $2500 notebooks that even come close?
Joseph- I agree that you’ll never please everyone, but the MacBook Pro has really neglected real-world usability. OSX is the primary reason to buy the new MacBook Pro, and its styling is a close second.
If that’s your operating system of choice. In terms of performance comparisons- take a look at the HP Elitebook 8530w from HP or Dell’s Dimension. You can get quad-core processors and Blu-ray for under $3k.
It’s very easy to use several of the ports at once- using an external FW800 drive to edit a movie while using headphones for example. I really think any 15-inch notebook should have at least three or four USB ports, with at least one on each side. FW and headphones are far apart, but the Expresscard slot is jammed next to the headphone jack. If you use an ExpressCard WWAN modem and a headset you’re hosed.
I am not at all happy with my Macbook Pro. It permanently went dim (CCFL Backlight failure) after only a few months, it has a USB port that is spotty, and the CD/DVD drive only reads about 20% of the media you put into it – on a good day. For 4k I could have put together a much better laptop than this!
I am not at all happy with my Macbook Pro. It permanently went dim (CCFL Backlight failure) after only a few months, it has a USB port that is spotty, and the CD/DVD drive only reads about 20% of the media you put into it – on a good day. For 4k I could have put together a much better laptop than this!
ive looked into the HP that youve recomended, and it just dosnt have the build quality or design for me, and you would still have to put up with the everything-but-perfect Vista. By the way, i am not saying that the new macbook pro is perfect, although ive had mine for about a month now and its an amazing machine. I just think that you can never take everyones needs/preferences into account when designing a mass produced notebook.
And that’s the problem here- they aren’t taking everyone’s “needs” into account when designing the MBP. A lot of users need more than 1 functional USB port. Many need 3G, a docking solution, matte screen, etc. I know one size doesn’t fit all, but it could have fit a lot better if Apple considered a little more functionality over form.
im a designer – industrial designer to be specific, i do renderings all day on photoshop, illustrator, etc etc, and so far this new mac is wayy better than any pc ive used to render. So in my line of work this mbp rocks. but I do hate how the ports are so damn close to each other
ive looked into the HP that youve recomended, and it just dosnt have the build quality or design for me, and you would still have to put up with the everything-but-perfect Vista. By the way, i am not saying that the new macbook pro is perfect, although ive had mine for about a month now and its an amazing machine. I just think that you can never take everyones needs/preferences into account when designing a mass produced notebook.
And that’s the problem here- they aren’t taking everyone’s “needs” into account when designing the MBP. A lot of users need more than 1 functional USB port. Many need 3G, a docking solution, matte screen, etc. I know one size doesn’t fit all, but it could have fit a lot better if Apple considered a little more functionality over form.
im a designer – industrial designer to be specific, i do renderings all day on photoshop, illustrator, etc etc, and so far this new mac is wayy better than any pc ive used to render. So in my line of work this mbp rocks. but I do hate how the ports are so damn close to each other
David – if your macbook pro is so bad take it back and get a refund! And truely, if you all think the design is so bad then, er, it begs the question: why even buy one?!
David- you definitely need to get a replacement. It’s a lemon.
David – if your macbook pro is so bad take it back and get a refund! And truely, if you all think the design is so bad then, er, it begs the question: why even buy one?!
David- you definitely need to get a replacement. It’s a lemon.
As an followup to the video issues I mentioned earlier, it seems that Apple fixed them with 2 updates I installed (external monitor plugged in caused Kernal Panic)
As an followup to the video issues I mentioned earlier, it seems that Apple fixed them with 2 updates I installed (external monitor plugged in caused Kernal Panic)
recently purchased the new Mac Book Pro- and was completely in love- until I woke up this morning and watched a hairline crack grow across the screen. Much to my dismay, the new unibody LED screen is made of glass. A slight bump or normal wear and tear will cause the screen to break- and this screen is not covered under the Apple Care warranty. Apple Store members insist that the computer was dropped- it was not. Apparently if the screen is slightly out of alignment it may potentially cause extra pressure on the glass. The flexible aluminum surface- plus the brittle glass screen are subject to shattering the glass with apparently little pressure exerted on the computer top. This is a buyer beware. The older Mac Book Pro was much more of a sturdy machine in my open. This new super cool pretty laptop- is now uncovered by Apple and a the cracked glass is obviously a health hazard and a HUGE BUMMER.
MJ – sorry to hear that. However, i must say you are very unclear about the exact circumstances before the crack – had the taken the laptop out for the day or did you knock it? or was it just sat on a desk?
recently purchased the new Mac Book Pro- and was completely in love- until I woke up this morning and watched a hairline crack grow across the screen. Much to my dismay, the new unibody LED screen is made of glass. A slight bump or normal wear and tear will cause the screen to break- and this screen is not covered under the Apple Care warranty. Apple Store members insist that the computer was dropped- it was not. Apparently if the screen is slightly out of alignment it may potentially cause extra pressure on the glass. The flexible aluminum surface- plus the brittle glass screen are subject to shattering the glass with apparently little pressure exerted on the computer top. This is a buyer beware. The older Mac Book Pro was much more of a sturdy machine in my open. This new super cool pretty laptop- is now uncovered by Apple and a the cracked glass is obviously a health hazard and a HUGE BUMMER.
MJ – sorry to hear that. However, i must say you are very unclear about the exact circumstances before the crack – had the taken the laptop out for the day or did you knock it? or was it just sat on a desk?
excellent article, I completely agree and wrote a very similar analysis on engadget some months ago. Unibody mac looks definiely awesome, but these flaws IMHO makes it unworth of the “pro” label. It would certainly be the killer MacBook, but not the PRO one.
When we talk about pro users we definitely not talking about itunes iphoto or ichatting with your college mates. Many MBP users even consider these programs crapware. Sorry boys, me too.
It’s a pity because the old MBP is much closer to perfection than this one. I have a old MBP-on-steroids (6Gb RAM, 500Gb HD) and NO WAY im changing to this new one. I was dreaming before this brick was released that the new MBP would include just one USB more, an external SATA and OF COURSE the two firewires. The removal of one of them is IMHO an insult for the people that have zillions of firewire gear. Same for the glossy display but everything’s been said about that already.
I really hope Apple releases a new MBP. This one is a no-go.
excellent article, I completely agree and wrote a very similar analysis on engadget some months ago. Unibody mac looks definiely awesome, but these flaws IMHO makes it unworth of the “pro” label. It would certainly be the killer MacBook, but not the PRO one.
When we talk about pro users we definitely not talking about itunes iphoto or ichatting with your college mates. Many MBP users even consider these programs crapware. Sorry boys, me too.
It’s a pity because the old MBP is much closer to perfection than this one. I have a old MBP-on-steroids (6Gb RAM, 500Gb HD) and NO WAY im changing to this new one. I was dreaming before this brick was released that the new MBP would include just one USB more, an external SATA and OF COURSE the two firewires. The removal of one of them is IMHO an insult for the people that have zillions of firewire gear. Same for the glossy display but everything’s been said about that already.
I really hope Apple releases a new MBP. This one is a no-go.
Powerbook 12″ G4 = the greatest.
Powerbook 12″ G4 = the greatest.
Hello Xavier.
Some time has passed since you originaly wrote this piece. I wonder if you still feel this way…
I am in a similar position: Apple is offering to replace my 2008 15in 2.4 MBP for a brand new 15in unibody. I got it yesterday and I am not liking it (for less reasons than you mentionned).
Before I send it back and get them to replace the offending parts on my old MBP, I wanted to see if you still felt the same. The woman writing about the hairthin crack spooks me since the delivery box came in a pretty bad shape. No observable damage to the MBP but I am weary…
Please, let me know how you feel now.
Thank you!
Ghislain
A lot of these things really annoy me still, but I’ve worked around some of them. The track pad is working flawlessly thanks to some Apple software updates.
The glossy screen still gets to me. I still need to hunt down a FireWire 800 hub and buy an ExpressCard adapter for my SD cards. The crammed ports are the second most annoying thing next to the glossy screen.
That being said, I think you should take the free unibody MacBook Pro while you have the chance. You’ll have a fresh warranty on it- I’m not sure what your situation is with your old one in terms of remaining warranty and AppleCare. Second, it’s probably got better specifications than your old MacBook Pro. It completely depends on your priorities though- if you must have the matte display stick with the 2008 model.
If your old MBP is a problem child you could always sell the unibody, and pick up a 2.4GHz 2008 MacBook Pro from MacMall.
Thanks for your speedy response.
Actualy, I made a typo. My old MBP is 2.2. But 4gb ram DDR2. The new one is 2.4 and 2gb ram. It is quite faster to boot up but having to fork money on 2 more gb of ddr3 does not appeal to me.
My waranty has expired on the old ne but I think that if they give me apple care for 2 years instead of the new MBP Unibody, I’ll take that over dealing with the glossy screen and the extra charge for the ddr3…
Thank you again for your suggestions.
Hello Xavier.
Some time has passed since you originaly wrote this piece. I wonder if you still feel this way…
I am in a similar position: Apple is offering to replace my 2008 15in 2.4 MBP for a brand new 15in unibody. I got it yesterday and I am not liking it (for less reasons than you mentionned).
Before I send it back and get them to replace the offending parts on my old MBP, I wanted to see if you still felt the same. The woman writing about the hairthin crack spooks me since the delivery box came in a pretty bad shape. No observable damage to the MBP but I am weary…
Please, let me know how you feel now.
Thank you!
Ghislain
A lot of these things really annoy me still, but I’ve worked around some of them. The track pad is working flawlessly thanks to some Apple software updates.
The glossy screen still gets to me. I still need to hunt down a FireWire 800 hub and buy an ExpressCard adapter for my SD cards. The crammed ports are the second most annoying thing next to the glossy screen.
That being said, I think you should take the free unibody MacBook Pro while you have the chance. You’ll have a fresh warranty on it- I’m not sure what your situation is with your old one in terms of remaining warranty and AppleCare. Second, it’s probably got better specifications than your old MacBook Pro. It completely depends on your priorities though- if you must have the matte display stick with the 2008 model.
If your old MBP is a problem child you could always sell the unibody, and pick up a 2.4GHz 2008 MacBook Pro from MacMall.
Thanks for your speedy response.
Actualy, I made a typo. My old MBP is 2.2. But 4gb ram DDR2. The new one is 2.4 and 2gb ram. It is quite faster to boot up but having to fork money on 2 more gb of ddr3 does not appeal to me.
My waranty has expired on the old ne but I think that if they give me apple care for 2 years instead of the new MBP Unibody, I’ll take that over dealing with the glossy screen and the extra charge for the ddr3…
Thank you again for your suggestions.
I went to an apple dealer and tried out the new MacbookPros. I really don’t like the black keys with the alumium body. I prefer if it was white keys. I am using the current keyboard that I attach to my older Macbook Pro at home, and really love the design/look. However the black keys on the Macbookpro (and now on all notebooks) just looked cheap. Also I wasn’t very use to the trackpad without a button. There was no real placeholder for my thumb to click on so natually I would subconsiously just look for it and remind myself there is no button anymore. With the very reflective glossy screen it didn’t really feel like its a laptop anymore… its really gloss over function to me. I still really like the previous silver keyed macbookpros. Although I like to type on the new keyboards with the flatter buttons, the let down of the new design and also the lack of support for the older monitors I will wait another year before they reinvent a new looking macbook pro. I almost forgot as well, the actual words Macbook Pro on bottom of the screen is way too big in relation to the 15inch version I was trying out. Sigh…
I went to an apple dealer and tried out the new MacbookPros. I really don’t like the black keys with the alumium body. I prefer if it was white keys. I am using the current keyboard that I attach to my older Macbook Pro at home, and really love the design/look. However the black keys on the Macbookpro (and now on all notebooks) just looked cheap. Also I wasn’t very use to the trackpad without a button. There was no real placeholder for my thumb to click on so natually I would subconsiously just look for it and remind myself there is no button anymore. With the very reflective glossy screen it didn’t really feel like its a laptop anymore… its really gloss over function to me. I still really like the previous silver keyed macbookpros. Although I like to type on the new keyboards with the flatter buttons, the let down of the new design and also the lack of support for the older monitors I will wait another year before they reinvent a new looking macbook pro. I almost forgot as well, the actual words Macbook Pro on bottom of the screen is way too big in relation to the 15inch version I was trying out. Sigh…
One of the problems with new unibody is sharp edges on the sides and bottom – you can almost cut yourself especially the place where in the middle where top latches on to with the magnet. Also, I hope Apple considers using other materials since many people have allergies on Aluminum. Better choices would be Titanium, Magnesium or some combo with plastic.
One of the problems with new unibody is sharp edges on the sides and bottom – you can almost cut yourself especially the place where in the middle where top latches on to with the magnet. Also, I hope Apple considers using other materials since many people have allergies on Aluminum. Better choices would be Titanium, Magnesium or some combo with plastic.
I agree largely with the comments from Adam. I know of nobody that uses that remote they used to include beyond the “oh look.. thats cool” stage. Then it is quickly retired to a drawer. I have 3 of them in a drawer myself. My wife 2 more. Far better strategy to sell them to the few that use them rather than include them for the masses who don’t. Honestly what percent of users would you say use the remote beyond the first month? I would guess 80% don’t.
Overall good comments, but the remote one is really being nit-picky
I agree largely with the comments from Adam. I know of nobody that uses that remote they used to include beyond the “oh look.. thats cool” stage. Then it is quickly retired to a drawer. I have 3 of them in a drawer myself. My wife 2 more. Far better strategy to sell them to the few that use them rather than include them for the masses who don’t. Honestly what percent of users would you say use the remote beyond the first month? I would guess 80% don’t.
Overall good comments, but the remote one is really being nit-picky
No remote eh? well…. just use your ipod touch/ iphone… assuming you have one, and use the free remote app….. w8… that is only for itunes…. but if that is all you need a remote for then its a awesome app to have…
No remote eh? well…. just use your ipod touch/ iphone… assuming you have one, and use the free remote app….. w8… that is only for itunes…. but if that is all you need a remote for then its a awesome app to have…
xavier, i think now Apple has released a new MBP revision with a USB card reader (!) instead of the ExpressCard slot (thus making impossible using hi-performance eSata drives and a lot of other professional stuff), the machines are even worse and seem targeted to beginners, teenagers and college students rather than video, audio or IT professionals. Why do you think Apple is losing interest in the Professional market?
Apple’s gaining traction in the broader market, far beyond creative professionals. For every person that really wants the ExpressCard slot, there are probably 100 or 1000 that want the card reader.
On a more positive note, Apple’s brought back the matte display on the 15-inch MacBook Pro. I’ll probably trade in my 10 month old MacBook Pro for one of these sometime soon as I really prefer antiglare screens.
yes you are right in your statistics, but sadly that 10% is probably close to the 100% of the professional users
xavier, i think now Apple has released a new MBP revision with a USB card reader (!) instead of the ExpressCard slot (thus making impossible using hi-performance eSata drives and a lot of other professional stuff), the machines are even worse and seem targeted to beginners, teenagers and college students rather than video, audio or IT professionals. Why do you think Apple is losing interest in the Professional market?
Apple’s gaining traction in the broader market, far beyond creative professionals. For every person that really wants the ExpressCard slot, there are probably 100 or 1000 that want the card reader.
On a more positive note, Apple’s brought back the matte display on the 15-inch MacBook Pro. I’ll probably trade in my 10 month old MacBook Pro for one of these sometime soon as I really prefer antiglare screens.
yes you are right in your statistics, but sadly that 10% is probably close to the 100% of the professional users
Thankx Xavier for the post. Now, it leaves me wonder when will Apple be coming up with the revised edition.. Its already October, to my guessing it would be after Xmas or so, what do you think guys?…i wanted to go for the new one as i sold out the old 2008 macbook(black edition). but its seems to be a long wait if its not until Xmas.
Thankx Xavier for the post. Now, it leaves me wonder when will Apple be coming up with the revised edition.. Its already October, to my guessing it would be after Xmas or so, what do you think guys?…i wanted to go for the new one as i sold out the old 2008 macbook(black edition). but its seems to be a long wait if its not until Xmas.
I too had my non unibody macbook pro replaced with the new unibody one after my old one failed and was still under warrantee. I agree that it takes time to get used to changes but personaly disagree that the new Mac is that bad. While it is true that use of multiple USB devices can be difficult with the new placement, I love that I no longer have cables coming out of ALL sides of my notebook.
I too have an external monitor that just plugged in to the laptop and have firewire 400 devices that no longer connect. I asked nicely and was given FREE adapters for both the external monitor as well as 2 cables that go from FW800 to FW400 for external drives and my video camera. I found that Apple was more than willing to help out since they replaced my old Mac with a newer design.
As for the display, I have mixed feelings. I have had both displays and agree that the new glossy one is a bit hard to use under certain conditions but the deeper blacks and sharper colors make me like it enough…
Anyways, to sum things up, I love the new unibody Macbook Pro. I even got used to the chiclet keyboard EVENTUALLY…
Mr Xavier ……..If you can afford a MBP and you are using one then i would put aside the flaws and look at the Plus points of the MBP. It beats any other notebook out there in terms of looks and especially OS, as windows i personally feel is a sad attempt at making an OS….So be thankfull for what you have and stop bitching about the MBP….afterall Apple replaced it for a new one absolutely free…….Think of the others out there using sad looking Dells and HP's…….and as for the USB issue, try getting the new slim silicon USB that is small in size…that should solve the problem.
Apple was a niche company until they introduced a robust OS, there are still options out there but for a flexible operating system OS X is tough to beat. That being said, who cares what the machine looks like? Do you feel better when people say how pretty your computer is? I hate the evolution of the portable computer into simply another accessory.
I understand why all of the changes were made, but unfortunately I believe the main reason for many of them was cost. When you're paying $2,500 there should be no issues, period. I mean seriously…did they not test trying to put two USB flash drives in at once? They don't fit! I agree its more convenient to have everything on one side (versus wires all over) but there's still plenty of space to space them out more. Also, my new macbook (the best model you can get) keeps glitching while using after effects and gives me a flickering blue screen. When I went into the apple store (because I called and they told me this was definitely a problem) they did absolutely nothing for me! If it's definitely a problem, and you can't fix it…then for something that is still under full warranty and cost $2,500 I expect a new one! Apple is definitely not as top notch as it used to be. My sister has been using her older macbook pro model for about 5 years now and its still going strong, I don't expect my newer model to last nearly that long – it already seems to be loosing its oomph. In all honestly im hoping it completely crashes while still under warranty so I can get it replaced w/ the next model – cause this generation has the feel of a batch of lemons.
Hello, I agree with some of them, but for the firewire, I recommend you buy a 9pin-6pin cable and everything will be back to normal. Enjoy