What inferior specs?
Slower processor is the only thing but that's more than compensated for by the SSD in the MBA.
In 2013 the MBA is just a much better buy than the cMBP.
Not at all, completely different machines.
0 dedicated VRAM = 0 speed
0 dedicated VRAM = 0 speed
the 13 inch MBP doesn't have dedicated VRAM either?
Many people have said that the only reason for ipad mini is lower cost. Would people say the same thing about MBA?
it's like comparing a Ferrari to a truck and saying the ferrari is worse. It depends what you are intending to use the machine for.
0 dedicated VRAM = 0 speed
You might want to brush up on your Apple specs...
I just got a base 13" MBA and I am quite impressed with it. I had the first generation MBA years ago and that was severely lacking in performance compared to the MBPs then. However the current model for typical usage I cannot notice the difference between the MBA and my rMBP. Only thing I would like is 2x Thunderbolt instead of 1x.
iPad mini is a one-handed, pocket device, small and cheap enough to be given to kids, etc.
iPad is a slightly more powerful full-sized tablet, much better screen for photos and videos, etc.
MacBook Pro is a mainstream/high end laptop, balancing portability and power.
MacBook Air is an ultra-portable, as thin as it can be while still running a desktop OS well.
When you remove pricing from the equation, you see that there's very little overlap between these products.
For me, I'm taking the MBA every time. I feel I can speak pretty objective about this because I actually have a 15" MBP (non-retina) for work. My personal, home computer is a 13" MBA with 8GB of RAM. It is without a doubt the best computer I've ever owned and will probably last me the next 5 years and maybe more.
The ultraportable size, yet still durable, just can't be overstated.
For those who have never used a computer with the flash storage before, you'll be truly amazed at the difference.
The work MBP has the same amount of RAM and a better processor, but a standard HDD.