2016 MacBook Review Roundup: SSD Performance is Much Improved, Lack of Ports and 480p Camera Are Still Negatives

[ghost187]

To all the haters out there, please show me an alternative product that is;
- Exactly 2 lbs or under
- Has 41 watt-hour battery
- Retina equivalent display
- And the features you're complaining about, lol

 

[Boston007]

Nail on the head. I've got money burning a hole in my pocket to buy a graduation gift. I wanted to buy a Mac, but it all feels like a compromise for the exact reasons you outlined. So instead of feeling great about a purchase, I feel like I'm sacrificing. A retina MBA would be absolutely ideal...even if the battery life wasn't quite as good as the current version. A much better keyboard, USB port and magsafe connector.

The MB feels like another bloop single. I'd like to see Apple get back to hitting home runs.

I am in the same boat as you and I feel that LordVic said it best.

I wish they would have updated the macbook air's display, and that thick bezel(yikes).

 

[Mike MA]

Still can't figure out why anyone would by this crap. If you're spending this much on a laptop, get a MacBook Pro. One port is unacceptable!

For you.

 

[RedOrchestra]

When Apple walked away from 17" MacBook Pros, I walked away from Apple Laptops - replaced it with an iMac and an iPad.

 

[LordVic]

To all the haters out there, please show me an alternative product that is;
- Exactly 2 lbs or under
- Has 41 watt-hour battery
- Retina equivalent display
- And the features you're complaining about, lol

Microsoft Surface Pro 4.
1.73lbs (2.2 w/ keyboard accessory)
Battery is rated the same (app 9 hours)
Resolution: 2736 x 1824
USB-A port. Power Port, MicroSD card, Mini Display Port, detachable keyboard. Touch Screen. options up to an i7 CPU. Much less thermal throttling.

Price also starts at less than the rMB. The rMB starts at 1,249 USD. the base price for Surface Pro 4 (inclusive of keyboard) is $1028 (Core M3 + 4GB RAM, 128gb SSD)

"but thats not the same specs!" sure sure. Now there's no 1:1 price / performance comparison, Because once you start upping the Surface Pro 4's specs, you get into a lot more power than you can get in even the highest spec'd rMB

the Surface pro 4 @ 1,299.00 price point (Same as rMB entry) comes with a core i5 CPU, 8gb RAM, 256. So with Keyboard, its' $1,429.

I know what you're going to say. "BUT THATS MORE EXPENSIVE!". sure. it's $129 mroe expensive. But again: USB-A port, power port (the power brick also comes with a USB-A charging port for additional device charging). The Surface Pen. The detachable keyboard. 10 point touch screen that is in the "retina" calibre. 9 hour battery life. MicroSD expansion for space. Mini Display Port for video output.

 

[ghost187]

Microsoft Surface Pro 4.
1.73lbs (2.2 w/ keyboard accessory)
Battery is rated the same (app 9 hours)
Resolution: 2736 x 1824
USB-A port. Power Port, MicroSD card, Mini Display Port, detachable keyboard. Touch Screen. options up to an i7 CPU. Much less thermal throttling.

Price also starts at less than the rMB. The rMB starts at 1,249 USD. the base price for Surface Pro 4 (inclusive of keyboard) is $1028 (Core M3 + 4GB RAM, 128gb SSD)

"but thats not the same specs!" sure sure. Now there's no 1:1 price / performance comparison, Because once you start upping the Surface Pro 4's specs, you get into a lot more power than you can get in even the highest spec'd rMB

the Surface pro 4 @ 1,299.00 price point (Same as rMB entry) comes with a core i5 CPU, 8gb RAM, 256. So with Keyboard, its' $1,429.

I know what you're going to say. "BUT THATS MORE EXPENSIVE!". sure. it's $129 mroe expensive. But again: USB-A port, power port (the power brick also comes with a USB-A charging port for additional device charging). The Surface Pen. The detachable keyboard. 10 point touch screen that is in the "retina" calibre. 9 hour battery life. MicroSD expansion for space. Mini Display Port for video output.

Every manufacturer lies about battery life, but at least Apple is more realistic. That's why I said 41 watt hour battery, at exactly 2 lbs. That's an unbelievable engineering feat for a laptop with a keyboard and all, and no one comes close to that.

It's not for everyone, I know, but that's why there is also the MacBook Pros, which will also receive a major upgrade soon.

 

[ConnYoungy]

480p camera????? Cmon!!

 

[zhenya]

Microsoft Surface Pro 4.
1.73lbs (2.2 w/ keyboard accessory)
Battery is rated the same (app 9 hours)
Resolution: 2736 x 1824
USB-A port. Power Port, MicroSD card, Mini Display Port, detachable keyboard. Touch Screen. options up to an i7 CPU. Much less thermal throttling.

Price also starts at less than the rMB. The rMB starts at 1,249 USD. the base price for Surface Pro 4 (inclusive of keyboard) is $1028 (Core M3 + 4GB RAM, 128gb SSD)

"but thats not the same specs!" sure sure. Now there's no 1:1 price / performance comparison, Because once you start upping the Surface Pro 4's specs, you get into a lot more power than you can get in even the highest spec'd rMB

the Surface pro 4 @ 1,299.00 price point (Same as rMB entry) comes with a core i5 CPU, 8gb RAM, 256. So with Keyboard, its' $1,429.

I know what you're going to say. "BUT THATS MORE EXPENSIVE!". sure. it's $129 mroe expensive. But again: USB-A port, power port (the power brick also comes with a USB-A charging port for additional device charging). The Surface Pen. The detachable keyboard. 10 point touch screen that is in the "retina" calibre. 9 hour battery life. MicroSD expansion for space. Mini Display Port for video output.

The Surface Pro is close, but it's not the same device (I own both). The surface is noticeably heavier and bulkier in day to day use. The touchpad is nowhere near as good, and the battery life is more like 5-6 hours when I get 7-9 hours easily out of the MacBook.

Closest devices I'm aware of are the new HP Folio G1 and the Lenovo Yoga 900s. But both have some pretty serious downsides compared to the MacBook.

 

[brewmonkey]

I would love to see sales figures for the new (and old) rMB. I have a feeling they're selling a decent number of them, even considering the niche they serve: "portability at all costs".
[doublepost=1461612551][/doublepost]

480p camera????? Cmon!!

I've said it before - do you really want somebody seeing your face in full HD? ;P

 

[LordVic]

Every manufacturer lies about battery life, but at least Apple is more realistic. That's why I said 41 watt hour battery, at exactly 2 lbs. That's an unbelievable engineering feat for a laptop with a keyboard and all, and no one comes close to that.

It's not for everyone, I know, but that's why there is also the MacBook Pros, which will also receive a major upgrade soon.

Every manufacturer lies about battery life, but at least Apple is more realistic. That's why I said 41 watt hour battery, at exactly 2 lbs. That's an unbelievable engineering feat for a laptop with a keyboard and all, and no one comes close to that.

It's not for everyone, I know, but that's why there is also the MacBook Pros, which will also receive a major upgrade soon.

I don't mean to sound like the rMB isn't a feat of engineering. Its an impressive little machine. if they could ever figure out how to fix the thermal throttling issues, and add that 2nd USB-C port, and drop the price a little to be more in line with the MBA's price level, I think most of us doubters of this product would be shut up. most of the gripes people have with the rMB isn't the technology, it's Apple's design choices and pricing.

the Surface Pro 4 was the first thing that comes close to the size / weight. it's not exact. there's really nobody who cares to make a rMB clone (except that HP spectre, which I don' think will be successful). Between all the thin and lights in the similar category (like the SP4 and the other ones mentioned), each one is attempting to do something slightly different from eachother. Apple is going for the "lightest, thinnest laptop", Surface is going fro the "tablet and laptop all in one". the Lenevo goes for the hinge.

but yes. Many people are "close". .1 lb is close. .2 lbs is close. anyone who is complaining about how heavy something is that is .2lbs heavier, especially a laptop that is typically used resting on a surface, Has other issues IMHO.

 

[mantan]

I am guessing you have not spent a lot of time with one. The keyboard is really stellar if you're the type to type on mechanical keyboards. It takes getting used to, but it's really much better after a few weeks (Yes, this is VERY subjective). USB-C is the future, and just like the 30-Pin went away, USB Type-A will do the same eventually. I am sure it will take much longer, but it's a much better standard for now. It's so cheap and easy to get adapters and docks, since USB-C is not an Apple proprietary (thank God), that it won't be a big issue in the near future.

So the compromise is spend more money on adapters and take a faith that a keyboard with very mixed results will pan out on a computer that seems somewhat overpriced for the Mac line.

As a graduation gift I want this to be as simple and 'just works' as it can be. Something my daughter can use for 4 years of college (and after graduation) and not worry about. I will probably wait to June just to hedge any WWDC bet - but will probably end up getting her an MBA.

 

[peterdevries]

Better off with the XPS 13in.

Does that run OS X? Because if it doesn't you are wrong.

 

[Mildredop]

I went to look at the MacBook yesterday having looked at the first gen when that was released.

Again, I didn't buy. I love the size and weight, but one port and no SD slot makes it a no-buy for me. It also worries me that the MacBook has a port that isn't present on any other Apple product. I don't want to invest in USB-C if Apple end up not bothering with it in the future.

Just one more USB-C port and I'd buy. Two USB-C and an SD slot and there'd be no hesitation.

 

[CFreymarc]

Still can't figure out why anyone would by this crap. If you're spending this much on a laptop, get a MacBook Pro. One port is unacceptable!

You are not the market for this product. There is a significant market for those who what as thin of a Mac as possible for portability above connectivity. You and I can deal with the thicker MacBook Pro. Others don't need all the ports. It is also creating an interested niche market of USB-C multi-port adapters that handles the connectivity issues.

 

[Barry Bishop]

Does that run OS X? Because if it doesn't you are wrong.

can you explain to me why I am wrong, other than saying does it run OSX?

 

[El Cabong]

It seems to me that most people who feel the way you do, are not the target audience of this product. I don't even need the single port, except for charging. I am very small, microscopic segment of the market, but I use a Mac for iMessage, Profile Manager (web based), and Safari. Keep it as small and light as possible. Apple makes two other Laptops that fit your needs better, you just need to accept that.

I use an 11" Air. I use the USB ports a lot, and often when it's plugged in. I would absolutely be interested in an RMB (aka a lighter MBA with a Retina display), but the single USB port makes it a non-starter for me.

Get the right tool for the work you plan to be doing. That's why Apple and others provide laptop options.

See above. I'm not asking for a quad-core i7. I don't even care about the 480p camera.

So... You agree with this member because every product Apple makes gets revisions generation after generation. According to your logic, everything is mediocre.

Nope. There's a difference between incremental improvements to keep up with technological progress/innovation, and revisions to correct flaws in a product that shouldn't have been present in the first place. The latter applies to mediocre products.

Mediocre is your word. The RMB is like the original iPhone, the original Apple Watch, and the original Honda Insight.

Amazing, for what it is. Plenty of room for improvement. And who thought orangish-green was an attractive color?

(My Insight is still in use after 16 years.)

Without getting into opinions of past products, I don't think the RMB is particularly amazing. It's a decent/mediocre/underachieving/pedestrian addition to Apple's ultralight laptop range. It's not groundbreaking; it's just the latest iteration of Apple's "thinnest/lightest MacBook ever!"

It's unfair to compare it to your Insight, particularly for its longevity

 

[Mildredop]

Better off with the XPS 13in.

Whilst you might be correct, I just can't consider going back to Windows. I've looked and tried, but it's not for me. And for that reason, I wouldn't be better off with the XPS 13, regardless of its extra power/battery life or whatever.

 

[Mac 128]

I went to look at the MacBook yesterday having looked at the first gen when that was released.

Again, I didn't buy. I love the size and weight, but one port and no SD slot makes it a no-buy for me. It also worries me that the MacBook has a port that isn't present on any other Apple product. I don't want to invest in USB-C if Apple end up not bothering with it in the future.

Just one more USB-C port and I'd buy. Two USB-C and an SD slot and there'd be no hesitation.

There might be a second data port in the form of a Lightning port IF Apple actually removes the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone -- then they will likely replace it on the rMB as well. But there will never be an SD card slot. No room for one.

And frankly, I can't imagine the need for one, when a simple adapter for the times you do will suffice. But depending on why you need two USB-C ports, the Lighting port may suffice without the need for an adapter at all, as in the case of charging while using an external hard drive.

 

[akidd]

Why are people constantly complaining about this laptop as if Apple got rid of the Air and Pro and this was the only option? Get the other machines if you need ports or performance and quit whining.

Agreed. That's what did with a Pro.

 

[Mildredop]

There might be a second data port in the form of a Lightning port IF Apple actually removes the 3.5mm headphone jack from the iPhone -- then they will likely replace it on the rMB as well. But there will never be an SD card slot. No room for one.

And frankly, I can't imagine the need for one, when a simple adapter for the times you do will suffice. But depending on why you need two USB-C ports, the Lighting port may suffice without the need for an adapter at all, as in the case of charging while using an external hard drive.

Why would I want lightning and USB-C ports? Aren't they the same kind of thing?

 

[doelcm82]

Without getting into opinions of past products, I don't think the RMB is particularly amazing. It's a decent/mediocre/underachieving/pedestrian addition to Apple's ultralight laptop range. It's not groundbreaking; it's just the latest iteration of Apple's "thinnest/lightest MacBook ever!"

It's unfair to compare it to your Insight, particularly for its longevity

We'll have to wait a while before comparing the longevity.

There were many things about the Insight that made it an "mediocre" car. Only room for one passenger. Completely unsuitable for large families. No cruise control, and no automatic transmission, even as options. Top speed well under 100 mph. By those measures, it was an underachieving, pedestrian vehicle.

Also they tended to burn up on re-entry from space (I don't know if anyone actually tried doing that, but the lack of heat shielding tiles is an obvious design flaw on a re-entry vehicle.

It got (and still gets) 60 mpg consistently, though.

If you measure the RMB using criteria that it wasn't built to meet, it won't live up to your bogus standards, and you are probably better off looking elsewhere. But for someone in the narrow band of customers that Apple built this for, your criteria don't really matter, and your irritation that you wasted your money on something that obviously wasn't meant for you is misplaced. (I assume you are irritated because this affects you personally somehow.)

 

[pyrois]

Wait until September after the remove the 3.5mm jack from the iPhone. They will release an updated rMB with the 3.5mm jack replaced by a Lightning 2 connector.

Naw, they're going to release an updated rMB and remove the one USB-C connector it has

 

[Daws001]

Look at that sexy iPad Pro whopping those laptops!

 

[freddiecable]

I will wait until WWDC until i order. I'm sure Apple has some interesting Mac Book Pro-updates coming...

 

[El Cabong]

There were many things about the Insight that made it an "mediocre" car. Only room for one passenger.
[...]
Also they tended to burn up on re-entry from space (I don't know if anyone actually tried doing that, but the lack of heat shielding tiles is an obvious design flaw on a re-entry vehicle.
[...]
If you measure the RMB using criteria that it wasn't built to meet, it won't live up to your bogus standards, and you are probably better off looking elsewhere. But for someone in the narrow band of customers that Apple built this for, your criteria don't really matter, and your irritation that you wasted your money on something that obviously wasn't meant for you is misplaced. (I assume you are irritated because this affects you personally somehow.)

Including 2 USB ports = including heat shielding for atmospheric reentry?

I don't think having more than one USB port (in addition to the power port) is a bogus standard. In fact, just about every laptop on the market, Apple's included, meets or exceeds this standard. That's why I think the RMB is a mediocre product, but you're allowed to disagree.

btw, the driver counts as a passenger, so the original Insight actually has room for two