Did the Design Team run out of ideas?

[John Jacob]

And just how many aluminium cars do you think there are on the roads. Here's the hot tip: Not many. The Audi R8 springs to mind as one. A specialised car for a specialised need.

The original Audi A2 was another. But the reason for that is cost. Aluminium is lighter, stronger and more rust-proof than steel, but it costs a lot more to build a car entirely out of aluminium.

Similarly, I think Aluminium is better than plastic for laptops. Of course, neither of them are indestructible, but my new Unibody feels stronger than any plastic laptop I have seen. And my Aluminium Powerbook G4 lasted for five and a half years without any problems.

 

[aussie.damo]

MacRumors; Where if Apple is doing things different: people whine and if they're doing things the same: people whine. (Also it sounds like a lot of these comments haven't even handled the new MBP when referring to it's flimsiness.)


Shh. Don't tell them that. They're busy accusing Apple of ripping off PC manufacturer's who've just caught on nearly a decade later.

Oh? Did the TiBook have a black screen bezel? I, and everyone else with eyes, must have missed that bit!

Assuming you're referring only to the black keyboard, no, the TiBook was not the first to do that either. But if you'd like to believe they were, feel free.

Damo

 

[neiltc13]

Just imagine how much better looking the computer would be if it had a silver screen bezel and a silver keyboard. They had a great look with the MacBook Pro of old and they have shot themselves in the foot with this new design.

I think a lot of people who say they like the new design are actually saying they like the new build quality. It is definitely significantly improved but the look of the computer is far, far worse. I don't see how going from one, neat looking colour to two is a step forward.

 

[aussie.damo]

The original Audi A2 was another. But the reason for that is cost. Aluminium is lighter, stronger and more rust-proof than steel, but it costs a lot more to build a car entirely out of aluminium.

Similarly, I think Aluminium is better than plastic for laptops. Of course, neither of them are indestructible, but my new Unibody feels stronger than any plastic laptop I have seen. And my Aluminium Powerbook G4 lasted for five and a half years without any problems.

I do like the fact that Apple uses aluminium - don't get me wrong on that point. What I'm trying to say though is that it's not because it's a durable material. Search the boards to see the number of chips, dents, flex issues that people are faced with. See how many people buy invisible shields and other similar products.

A work colleague of mine bought a "classic" MBP about a year ago. He ruined it the first day he got it. How? He carried the whole laptops weight by one corner (where the DVD drive is) whilst the laptop was open. Result? Crushed the DVD drive. Of all the plastic laptops I've ever owned, none have ever done this.

I'm sure the new ones are better. I have a MacBook Air which feels a lot more solid than my "classic" MBP. I still feel like I need to be super careful when handling it. And I would feel the same with the new MBPs.

Look at it this way. The interior of most cars is predominantly plastic (dashboard, buttons, grips etc). For decoration, a lot of manufacturers will use aluminium. Durable for practical, pretty for non-practical.

Anyhoo, like I said, I love my aluminium Mac's - I am happy to be careful with them cos I like the shiny!

Just imagine how much better looking the computer would be if it had a silver screen bezel and a silver keyboard. They had a great look with the MacBook Pro of old and they have shot themselves in the foot with this new design.

I think a lot of people who say they like the new design are actually saying they like the new build quality. It is definitely significantly improved but the look of the computer is far, far worse. I don't see how going from one, neat looking colour to two is a step forward.

Couldn't agree with you more. If they had done this, I would've bought one without any hesitation. Probably two, so I could stare at one whilst using the other

Damo

 

[Red-red]

Just imagine how much better looking the computer would be if it had a silver screen bezel and a silver keyboard. They had a great look with the MacBook Pro of old and they have shot themselves in the foot with this new design.

I think a lot of people who say they like the new design are actually saying they like the new build quality. It is definitely significantly improved but the look of the computer is far, far worse. I don't see how going from one, neat looking colour to two is a step forward.

How on earth did they shoot themselves in the foot? I personally think the black gives it a bit more character, It has a bit of contrast and I like contrast. The old one is a bit bland and always has been. If you take the new one, take away the black because of the lack of parts and different materials it would look even more bland.

The black surround to me makes the screen really pop so I don't see nothing wrong it and glass over silver? Wouldn't look so good.

As for the build quality, well thats tied in with looks. It's the whole package. The new one can pull off the black contrast because of the simplicity of the whole package, the old one would look ridiculous with the same colour scheme, but like I said above the new one would look too boring all silver.

I said before, you sit the new one next to the old ( in person not just internet shots ) the difference is huge.

I would admit though that if I had the old one I would try to convince myself it was better.....in turn making threads like this one.

 

[aussie.damo]

What are you talking about. Apple had to be tremendously innovative just to get noticed in a market dominated by Windows PCs.

True - but a turd in a box WOULD be innovative

Damo

 

[Red-red]

True - but a turd in a box WOULD be innovative

Damo

I wonder what colour the apple logo would be...white...black...or rainbow?

 

[pdxflint]

BTW, Sony and Lenovo both make glossy/glassy screen black bevel laptops with metal and chickets. They look good, but they don't look like an Apple design, and the new MBPs have the impression of having borrowed more than a few cues from these existing models. Maybe you like the way they look, but to me they don't stand out in a crowd. I'm not speaking of getting microscopically close, just overall style points. For example, in any movie or tv show or commercial product placement spots, or many reality shows, we've all seen tons of them featuring the previous MBP, and even when disguised to try to hide it's identiy, it's unmistakable. It's a unique design, thus quite iconic. The new model isn't quite as easy to tell, unless one is looking only at the top cover, being aluminum with the apple logo. Then it becomes mistaken for the old one, doesn't look all that different. But, from the user's point of view, showing keyboard and screen, it could easily be a Sony. Nice looking, but looks like a Sony.

 

[john2006wright]

black bezel

What is the reason for the black bezel? Apple did this with the imac and now the notebooks. Is their a reason for black? Does it frame the colours of the dispaly better than white or chrome? I know I use the black backround in iphoto as I think it shows them off better.

John

 

[neiltc13]

What is the reason for the black bezel? Apple did this with the imac and now the notebooks. Is their a reason for black? Does it frame the colours of the dispaly better than white or chrome? I know I use the black backround in iphoto as I think it shows them off better.

John

I think it is everything to do with how the computer looks when it is switched off rather than on.

 

[MowingDevil]

And you either drink the Kool Aid or you don't.

A spade is a spade mate, whatever you use it for.

In case that's too subtle, what I mean is that Apple could drop a turd in a box and people would love it, just because it's Apple.

Damo

...and sure enough their would be a hoard of fanboys who swear up & down the OLD turd is better & superior.

I think it is everything to do with how the computer looks when it is switched off rather than on.

How many digital picture frames out there have black bezels compared to silver? How many modern HD flatscreen TVs have silver bezels compared to black? I think you are incorrect sir.

 

[EvryDayImShufln]

Holy **** this discussion is stupid.

How many possible colors do you think apple (or other PC makers for that matter) has to choose from when picking their keyboard color?

Last time I checked, a keyboard that is blue, red, green, yellow, etc will NOT happen. It's pretty much a pick between white, black, greyish or silver.

Same for the bezel: hey why didn't apple put a red bezel? It can obviously be one of 2 colors: black or silver, maybe white as well. All the other colors would look ridiculous.

So anybody saying they're unoriginal is obviously not looking at these simple facts.

I would say the new MBPs & MBs are original on many points:
- Full glass screen, I haven't seen any other consumer laptops with this around.
- Machined aluminium body: it feels AMAZING, about a billion times better than the old MBPs.
- I'm not so hot on the trackpad, but I can't say its not original.

It just frustrates me to see these ridiculous threads and arguments that go round and round about something that really is a non-issue.

 

[UltraNEO*]

I have noticed the similarity between the new MacBook Pro and my fathers HP. I cant deny their is some similaritys. Although one of the biggest differances is that the MacBook's are made entirely out of aluminum and the HP and Sonys are made out of plastic!

edit: and, today i saw two 4 door cars. One was a ford, one was a toyota. They both were red. THOSE STEALERS!

To me, Sony and all the other PC manufactures can rip of the Mac's physical look as much as they want!!!
Bottom line is, the PC stuff won't ever be running MacOSX natively.. For me it's the OS that makes or breaks a platform, cause without it, it's just another electronic box of tricks with billion of annoying assorted issues.

I just wish Apple sort out there ***** quality control!!! I seems to get worst every year!

 

[Red-red]

To me, Sony and all the other PC manufactures can rip of the Mac's physical look as much as they want!!!
Bottom line is, the PC stuff won't ever be running MacOSX natively.. For me it's the OS that makes or breaks a platform, cause without it, it's just another electronic box of tricks with billion of annoying assorted issues.

I just wish Apple sort out there ***** quality control!!! I seems to get worst every year!

Completely agree although I do think the quality control "increase" is just a direct result of the user base increasing.

I wish when people talk about the extra "premium" price of a Mac they factored in OSX.

 

[mojohanna]

And I think you'll find you are very wrong. Sony was using chicklet keys on Vaios LONG before Apple ever used them. Sony weren't first either, as multiple threads on this board can attest to.



Oh? So if someone disagrees with you, they have no taste or are deluding themselves? Well, I am very happy with my "classic" MBP and think it looks many times better than the new one. In fact, I only bought my "classic" a few weeks back, giving me plenty of time to drink in the new design before purchase. I thought the new design was an ugly mess when they first released it and, 1 month on, I still agree with myself. That said, I have no problem with you liking them, to each their own. I support diversity of opinion, unlike you.

Mac's used to be set apart by their distinctive look. Now, they look like every other silver bodied, black screen, black keyboard rubbish that all the other manufacturers put out. I think that's the point the OP is trying to make.



And just how many aluminium cars do you think there are on the roads. Here's the hot tip: Not many. The Audi R8 springs to mind as one. A specialised car for a specialised need.

Plastic is a lot more durable than aluminium. Why do you think the "classic" MBPs suffered from so much flex in the screen? The MBs didn't have this problem (plastic). Not sure why you mention rust, do you think that plastic rusts?

In any case, I don't think that Mac's should be made of plastic, I like the aluminium look; however, I don't fool myself into believing it's a more practical or durable solution.

Damo

There are a CRAPLOAD of Aluminum planes in the air though. And many for quite some time I might add. The point is, in most cases and applications, aluminum is a stronger more durable material than plastic.
The reason you don't see more aluminum cars is simply cost. steel is too cheap at the moment, in relative terms.

 

[Eddyisgreat]

Steel Dents. Plastic Breaks.

Anyway. I think the new design is fugly, however, people for the last 6 or 7 months were complaining very loudly on these forums that Apple's old MBP/PB aluminum design was played out.

You wanted an update. You got an "update".

There was no reason for them to change what they had. its still the holy grail of functionality and design. How many of those hedious plasticy dells do you see gracing tv commercials.

Not Many.

I can go through a list of scenes where Mac's and specifically the MBP has made its production.

*A show on TruTV
* Transformers Movie
*Vehix Commercial
* Another TV commercial that escapes me

I'll admit. I hated Apple for a while. The (old) machine is very sexy, indeed, but the specs were nothing to call home about. Yet, its fully functional as a desktop replacement, and as gorgeous as ever. I have various protections on it (malware kit, incase hardshell, iskin keyboard cover) ONLY because I like to protect my investments, and I'll probably keep this sucker around for a while (after I get a SSD and buy a set of replacement fans, I won't have to worry about moving parts besides the fans which I can replace). I recently sold a powerbook 12 inch g4, and while I'm sure there are many machines that would still work after how ever many years, the quality of the machine was absolutely outstanding, and the price I sold it for shows that the product is still highly sought after.

If they keep the new Macbook Pro design for seven years, so be it. But If something happens to my machine, I'll probably just get a Mac Pro and be done with Apple's portable lineup for the time being.

 

[HLdan]

And you either drink the Kool Aid or you don't.

A spade is a spade mate, whatever you use it for.

In case that's too subtle, what I mean is that Apple could drop a turd in a box and people would love it, just because it's Apple.

Damo

Look who's calling the vase "ming", your entire signature bleeds of Apple kool-aid sipping.

 

[SPEEDwithJJ]

Not to offend anyone here but the new Apple MB/MBP does remind me of the current Alienware Area-51 m15x:

 

[THX1139]

Notice how the OP posted then just ran off? The only reason I can think he would do that is that he was trolling in his post.

 

[THX1139]

Not to offend anyone here but the new Apple MB/MBP does remind me of the current Alienware Area-51 m15x:

Actually, the Aienware reminds me of the Macbook Pro. Apple doesn't copy other vendors... it's the opposite.

 

[Roba]

I think that the Sony is the best looking laptop out of all those listed. I also think that the HP laptop is the worse looking laptop out of that lot as well.
These new MBP's just don't look great to me the other ones just looked ten times better. Have some of you ever seen the Sony in real life?

As for the Sony being made out of plastic do some of you even know what you are talking about? The body is made out of a magnesium alloy case and magnesium is more durable than AL.

 

[daneoni]

Notice how the OP posted then just ran off? The only reason I can think he would do that is that he was trolling in his post.

I didn't run off, i posted just to get people's thoughts. I'm far from a troll. I've owned Apple products since 2004 and have owned a product from each product line at some point (and yes that includes the new MacBooks) excluding the Mac Pro but that doesn't mean i have to like everything Apple churns out and to me, these new machines are too PC looking and i'm not a fan of the glass either...it works well on the iMac but not on the notebooks.

I also showed my friends the new macbook and whilst some liked it...most thought it was too 'weird' or 'pc' looking. I personally think they should've gone with the MBA's design...everything silver but black keys.

Will i have to get used to the new design at some point...yes because this is the design direction Apple is taking: make everything look like the iPhone. Do i like it?...Nope but there are other things besides looks i.e. build quality and most of all...OS X

Actually, the Aienware reminds me of the Macbook Pro. Apple doesn't copy other vendors... it's the opposite.

It goes both ways and to say otherwise just tells me you're not free from Steve's RDF yet

 

[NT1440]

so they have the same type of keys and a very similar color.

anyone that actually looked at the DETAILS of the machines could tell them apart immediatly.

Apples always been about the little things.

 

[macrem]

The new Unibody MBPs look too much like a PC laptop?? Give me a freeeking break!

Get your mitts on a new MBP and then a PC laptop. Go ahead and have a look at the real thing. That Sony laptop the OP compared MBs to: there is about as much comparison there as there is between a Honda Accord & a BMW M5 (like the pics I posted earlier in this thread)... yes, they are both laptops. Great observation. Yes, they both have black chicklet keys. So what?! You yourselves say you would have done the MBs like the MBA (so you're ok with keys), but not the screen... so it all boils down to the screen, which is a beautiful display, the best ever, in the eyes of maaany!

As we know, the MBP is machined out of a block of aluminum and it is a work of art. The aforementioned Sony laptop has a very thin cosmetic layer of some metal that resembles aluminum and beneath that is ~1.5 inches of cheap plastic. There are big cylinders at the base of the screen. Its covered in cheap stickers. There is no comparison. And among the PC laptop makers, Sony makes one of the most elegant machines.

 

[macrem]

Look at the whole thing:

If you want to compare this laptop to a Mac, then frankly you should compare it to a pre-Unibody MB. Aside from one aspect, the keyboard (which you're ok with), the rest of the laptop has more in common with previous generation Macbooks. So what is the point you're trying to make?

It sounds like there's a small sewing circle of you guys who resist change, which is a natural human response which I do too sometimes.