If you think it's bad here, try going to the iPhone subforum -it gets more vicious there. These forums used to be about helping each other. At least in these two subforums, it seems to have gotten to justifying why people got the shinier device/machine or the less shinier device/machine by attacking the other side. Too bad but it seems that it's become more about image than what works for each person - "because I got the shinier and newer device. the others are inferior" or "because I got the less shiny or newer device, I'm smarter".
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All these years later, the Macbook Air is still Apple's most popular laptop
- Thread starter Adelphos33
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If you think it's bad here, try going to the iPhone subforum -it gets more vicious there. These forums used to be about helping each other. At least in these two subforums, it seems to have gotten to justifying why people got the shinier device/machine or the less shinier device/machine by attacking the other side. Too bad but it seems that it's become more about image than what works for each person - "because I got the shinier and newer device. the others are inferior" or "because I got the less shiny or newer device, I'm smarter".
I couldn't agree more and very well said.
The tone of intemperate outrage is astonishing - along with a clear inability to acknowledge that the MBA perfectly well meets the needs of those who have bought it and are happy with it (which does not equate to their being silly sheep).
I love my MBA. I fell in love the day Steve extracted MBA from the A4 envelop. I will always love MBA. It meets my needs and makes me happy.
I have remarked on it before, but I think a lot of women like the MBA, and find its combination of portability, power and reliability very attractive, and I would be willing to argue that - apart from students - women, working women, professional women, comprise a considerable percentage of the MBA's user base.
However, the preferences of women are often overlooked, or simply not noticed, by some in the tech world.
I'm a man! And I haven't been a student for about 30 years!
Lightweight, battery and price are why I chose it over the other options for work.
Absolutely: Lightweight - this is a dream to carry through those endless airports - battery (since 2013, the battery life has been outstanding) and power. And reliability. Utter and total reliability.
Price is another consideration - although, as I have always gone for the best specs available, my MBAs were less inexpensive than those purchased by others.
But, I thought I'd throw out the thought, that - I suspect - quite a number of women have bought it and have loved it.
Again, to repeat: This is simply, hands-down, the best computer I have had in my life.
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I own a wide range of devices... iPads, Android tablets, 2-in-1s, chromebooks, laptops, and desktops.... but ounce for ounce, my 11" Macbook Air packs the biggest punch to get work done on-the-go. I can get most of my work done on those other devices, but not quite all of it, and not always in a manner that is as straightforward as I can do it on the MBA. (and the regulars on MR know I've tried... really tried) 
When I travel and absolutely need to get work done, I've come to the conclusion that I'd take my 11" MBA + iPad Mini 4 and leave the 12.9 iPad Pro at home.
Having said that, I thoroughly enjoy my other devices... not a dud in the bunch. I continually use them, tinker with them, and push the limits of what they can do. Maybe one day one of them will be able to replace that combo... but that day is not today.
When I travel and absolutely need to get work done, I've come to the conclusion that I'd take my 11" MBA + iPad Mini 4 and leave the 12.9 iPad Pro at home.
Having said that, I thoroughly enjoy my other devices... not a dud in the bunch. I continually use them, tinker with them, and push the limits of what they can do. Maybe one day one of them will be able to replace that combo... but that day is not today.
The day in early 2008 I watched the keynote where Steve Jobs pulled a MacBook Air out of a manila envelope, I said, "WOW!" and instantly wanted to see one for myself. As soon as they were available in Apple retail stores, I headed to my closest one. Took a look, picked up the incredibly thin, lightweight MBA -- THIS was really a COMPUTER??!!! and marveled at it. I didn't want to put it down, but time was passing..... I gave it a hug and set it back on the display table. Unfortunately that year there were weather problems in China and so stores had not yet received actual stock to sell, so I had to wait a few more days before I could return to Tysons and get my own first-generation MacBook Air. Loved that machine, even though there were some quirks. It was my first introduction to the use of SSD/flash memory in a computer, too, and the thing felt like an absolute speed demon.
Time went on and although I still kept that first-generation MBA I did not purchase any of the later iterations which followed it, instead choosing a 13" rMBP a few years later when I was again in search of a portable machine. I wanted the retina screen and the more up-to-date look of that machine, which also had been thinned down a little and had lost a little weight, making it much more portable than earlier iterations had been. In the meantime that little first-gen MBA still plugged along, though, even though she could no longer up updated to a current OS, and a couple of years ago I gave her to a friend -- and she is STILL plugging right along!
I remember being intrigued by the 11" MBA when it first came out, but after playing around with a friend's for a while decided that I didn't really care for the fact that I had to scroll so much more with it and that for working on images the screen really would not be large enough. Interestingly, the friend, who had purchased it for the purpose of taking on trips and being able to import his images from memory cards for reviewing and saving, eventually decided that it just wasn't for him, either, and within a few month's time he sold it to someone else and bought a 13" rMBP.
More time went on.....and the 12" MacBook came on the scene. Again, I was captivated but this time did not immediately buy the first-generation. I did buy the 2nd generation one in 2016 and now have the third generation one from 2017; primary reasons for upgrading so soon were the 16 GB RAM and the better processor, along with the changes in the keyboard. When I pick up and carry around my 12" MB I am reminded of my beloved first-gen MBA and I have many of the same feelings for it: the light weight, the incredible slimness, the remarkable portability are important features and undoubtedly a reason for this machine's appeal to many, especially those who travel frequently. It has a stunning retina screen and that does make a difference, especially in a small-sized computer. It is also a very fast little machine and surprisingly capable, more so than one initially expects of a machine which has only one port and no fans. It is definitely the wave of the future in terms of portable computers. I do think that the machine would have even greater appeal if somehow Apple found a way to put another port on it, though......
My travel companions now are the 10.5 iPad and the 12" MB...... If it is just a short overnight trip I will sometimes just take the iPad, but for longer than that or for certain types of trips I want to have the MacBook along, too, and I find that I do use both quite a bit when traveling.
Time went on and although I still kept that first-generation MBA I did not purchase any of the later iterations which followed it, instead choosing a 13" rMBP a few years later when I was again in search of a portable machine. I wanted the retina screen and the more up-to-date look of that machine, which also had been thinned down a little and had lost a little weight, making it much more portable than earlier iterations had been. In the meantime that little first-gen MBA still plugged along, though, even though she could no longer up updated to a current OS, and a couple of years ago I gave her to a friend -- and she is STILL plugging right along!
I remember being intrigued by the 11" MBA when it first came out, but after playing around with a friend's for a while decided that I didn't really care for the fact that I had to scroll so much more with it and that for working on images the screen really would not be large enough. Interestingly, the friend, who had purchased it for the purpose of taking on trips and being able to import his images from memory cards for reviewing and saving, eventually decided that it just wasn't for him, either, and within a few month's time he sold it to someone else and bought a 13" rMBP.
More time went on.....and the 12" MacBook came on the scene. Again, I was captivated but this time did not immediately buy the first-generation. I did buy the 2nd generation one in 2016 and now have the third generation one from 2017; primary reasons for upgrading so soon were the 16 GB RAM and the better processor, along with the changes in the keyboard. When I pick up and carry around my 12" MB I am reminded of my beloved first-gen MBA and I have many of the same feelings for it: the light weight, the incredible slimness, the remarkable portability are important features and undoubtedly a reason for this machine's appeal to many, especially those who travel frequently. It has a stunning retina screen and that does make a difference, especially in a small-sized computer. It is also a very fast little machine and surprisingly capable, more so than one initially expects of a machine which has only one port and no fans. It is definitely the wave of the future in terms of portable computers. I do think that the machine would have even greater appeal if somehow Apple found a way to put another port on it, though......
My travel companions now are the 10.5 iPad and the 12" MB...... If it is just a short overnight trip I will sometimes just take the iPad, but for longer than that or for certain types of trips I want to have the MacBook along, too, and I find that I do use both quite a bit when traveling.
At one time, perhaps the portability (size/weight) had a special appeal to women, assuming women prize that more than men (does the "puny woman" stereotype apply?). However, a comparison between either the 13" MBP or the 12" MB shows that MBA does not take the prize in that department - 13" MBA is just a hair heavier, and the 12" MB clearly takes the prize. Further, when you add the choice of 4 colors (if you want to stereotype), the 12" MB ought to be the hands-down female favorite. I don't think it is.
For quite a while, MBA was cutting edge tech - compact, lightweight, fast (SSD), etc. Now, all of Apple's laptops share those basic characteristics. MBA today is, first and foremost, the "value proposition." As long as you don't need USB-C or a Retina display, you get great bang for the buck. That, of course, appeals to anyone, regardless of gender.
Well, I'm short, middle-aged and female - so, yes, portability matters in a computer to me. But, other things matter, too.
My first Apple was a 15" MBP, and, frankly, while it was a great computer, it was just too heavy for me to lug around comfortably, and I looked for reasons not to have to carry it; I ended up using it as a desktop and couldn't wait to buy a MBA.
For me, portability, power, reliability and battery life (along with form factor) are the key reasons I - like, adore, revere - the MBA.
Colour, stereotypes and all, I don't give a damn about - as long as it is anonymous and classy; personally, I like silver, space grey and black on computers. Likewise, the retina screen - while very nice - is not a priority when other needs have not been met.
The rMB has - according to feedback I have read, a somewhat neurotic keyboard, - one that clearly needs improvement - and that limited USB-C single slot; it is also underpowered for what it does, and I am not so certain about its battery life. For now, it reminds me of the early iterations of the MBA - stunning to look at but not what is needed until remedial action is taken. Apple may improve it - but, for now, - the MBA still meets my computing needs.
Just right. I don’t get all of this hate on the MBA. It is a great device for some people.... not everyone. So, why do some people get so critical of this reliable time tested entry level workhorse. For example, the MBA would still be at the top of my list for most college students. Reliability is hugely important at college. I simply could not recommend a New rMB or MBP to a student. The well documented keyboard failures are a disaster waiting to happen at 11pm the night a term paper is due to be turned in electronically.
For other folks, that have access to other computing alternatives if the keyboard fails, the MBP might be the right answer. Maybe they can dock it at their Work station and then have the IT department bring in a replacement. Whatever. I am really not knocking the rMB and MBP. They are probably great machines for some people.
The MBA has its shortcomings too. But, reliability does not appear to be one of them. So, why knock people that decide to sacrifice screen resolution and latest technology for a reliable lower priced alternative.....it’s just a matter of personal preference.
Well said and well argued.
In terms of reliability, the MBA just works, - the way the old advertisements said that "Apple just works".
I love the keyboard, too, nice and solid - dare one say reliable? - and not too temperamental.
Funny. Most of the MBA & MacBook owners I know are men. Most of the women have MBPs. I have both.
It was an observation - one from my own personal experience.
But - as I have written elsewhere - if I could lay hands on an 11" MBA (maxed out, as is the device I am writing this on), and brand new, I'd buy it in a heart-beat.
You'll have to fight past me for it.
If I knew when I bought my 2014 4GB/128GB 11" MBA just how fantastic it would be, I would've sprung for a maxed out one. (though I'm not complaining, $450 out the door @ Best Buy in the Summer of '14 brand new was a super deal)
MBA: ok old screen but has connections and works for what it was designed for: being v portable. Still wouldn't swap for my 2106MPB, though. Have two full specked MBA's to install but work means that'll take a few weeks (initial impression v good).
That is absolutely fine; what works for you, works for you.
What I don't get is this wild, excessive emotion and insane intemperate hatred - 'kill the MBA" - "why doesn't Apple murder annihilate obliterate this computer" and inability to accept that for some of us, this computer, despite its age, despite not being the latest and most fashionable and technologically advanced in Apple's line-up still meets our specific needs perfectly, and that we are perfectly happy with that.
We know other stuff exists and is available; for now, we choose not to avail of it, because we are perfectly content with what we have.
These are my current Apple products -- a 2012 MBA and an SE.
And I have a sneaking suspicion that whatever I eventually replace them with won't be as reliable and rock solid as these two products have been.
I'll take a guess. Hatred towards perceived inferior products is usually uttered by those that are insecure with their own "superior" product choices and need the reaffirmation or are simply trolling to get a rise out of people that make other choices then they do.
I'm a 30+ years Mac owner, have gone thru about 20 different desktops & laptops, not counting all the iDevices.
The MBA is to me a classic timeless design, which the architects of the new Steve Jobs theatre used as inspiration: http://www.businessinsider.com/new-...-inspired-by-macbook-air-laptop-photos-2017-5
Apart from its excellent keyboard for long typing session, the longevity of the battery is outstanding as well as the fact it isn't glued down and can easily be replaced when needed. Also, the SSD can be upgraded (if you're creative).
I bought a 8/128 model, but running it with a 256GB SSD (OEM) and a 128GB flush-mounted-SDcard. Plenty of space and speed.
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The MacBook Air is the only laptop or computing device that when i saw that thing slide out of that envelope, I said ... “OMG. I WANT THAT NOW”
i bought the original 11 inch one and realized after the awe had worn off I had just spent $1000+ on a netbook.
I have no doubt by the love of the current generations of MacBook Airs that they have improved tremendously and have dabbled into contemplating into getting one from time to time, that is until my rational thinking capabilities are rebooted and I come to my senses.
i bought the original 11 inch one and realized after the awe had worn off I had just spent $1000+ on a netbook.
I have no doubt by the love of the current generations of MacBook Airs that they have improved tremendously and have dabbled into contemplating into getting one from time to time, that is until my rational thinking capabilities are rebooted and I come to my senses.
Yes, you are quite correct that the appreciation-bordering-on-fanaticism of the 11" MBA is due to the significant improvements to the 11" MBA since that first generation.
With periodic sales that brought the price down to $650 for the entry model, it was hard for many to resist.
But those days are gone. I wouldn't recommend buying a refurb these days.
Just to clarify something here: to the best of my recollection, the 11" MBA was not part of the very first generation of MacBook Airs, which debuted in 2008....it came along later. The first-generation MBAs were offered in two flavors, both 13": one had a standard hard drive and the other had a much faster SSD/flash drive. Later, Apple expanded its offerings and sizes.
I love positive MacBook Air threads.
I purchased my first Mac as soon as I retired, six years ago last week and was no longer tied to my employer's Windows requirement. I still use the 2011 11" 4/128 MBA I bought that day for travel, coffee shops, and whenever I don't want to be stuck sitting at the iMac. I use it mostly to write in a text editor and to process and post RAW images when traveling. SSD size isn't an issue because because I use cloud storage so what I do will be available on the other machines. The battery is approaching end-of-life, but I'll have no qualms getting it replaced when it no longer holds a reasonable charge.
As others have said, it just works.
EDIT: I wrote 'seven' but meant 'six'
I purchased my first Mac as soon as I retired, six years ago last week and was no longer tied to my employer's Windows requirement. I still use the 2011 11" 4/128 MBA I bought that day for travel, coffee shops, and whenever I don't want to be stuck sitting at the iMac. I use it mostly to write in a text editor and to process and post RAW images when traveling. SSD size isn't an issue because because I use cloud storage so what I do will be available on the other machines. The battery is approaching end-of-life, but I'll have no qualms getting it replaced when it no longer holds a reasonable charge.
As others have said, it just works.
EDIT: I wrote 'seven' but meant 'six'
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I've had three. Two currently. Great machines. All day battery. Don't even bring my charger on the road. One was stolen. If you see it let me know.
I absolutely love my 13” 2013 MBA - best computer I ever owned. Carried and used daily, and still looks good as new after 5 years.
I have however struggled with the 128GB SSD and wish I’d gone bigger. However at the time I decided to spend my limited budget on getting the 8GB RAM model - probably still the better option as i’ve never, ever got low on RAM despite some heavy use. Getting a 128GB sdxc card helped with large file storage but still not as good as having a bigger SSD.
Recently I went for the iCloud 2TB family storage offer and I’m very happy with it. My SSD woes are more or less over now. OS X shuffles a lot of unused files into iCloud and seamlessly bring them back when needed.
I now have about 700+ GB of files on iCloud including about 20,000+ photos. Apart from the initial upload which was a pain, I don’t have to do any file management at all. I can scroll through all 20,000 photos in Photos and it brings back the master from iCloud whenever needed. Ditto for all my other files. They’re also all smoothly available any time on my iPhone and iPad, (when connected) which is quite remarkable.
I’ve ended up saving money as I don’t need a 1TB subscription on Dropbox any more, and my 7 year old Time Capsule which really needed a replacement is going unused & un-updated. Saved me spending £400 on a badly out of date Airport Time Capsule which is all Apple can offer.
I still have misgivings about not having a full local copy, and it’s something I intend to sort out soon, but for the moment that single £7 iCloud 2TB subscription has given a new lease of life to two MBAs as well as a continuous full backup and full data share for three iPhones and two iPads.