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For $1200, which 13" Retina MacBook Pro is better?
- Thread starter dmk1974
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I think the RAM issue is overstated for most users.
The XNU kernel manages memory incredibly well for multitasking, even before memory compression was introduced in mavericks. I'm pretty sure the dock-indicator change on 10.8 was to discourage users from obsessively closing out of applications since the OS handles it so well.
A typical workspace for me consists of 1-2 displays, ~4 desktops on mission-control, with 1-5 windows on each. Apps range from large software development projects(IDE, compiler, analysis and testing, simulator, version/source management), a range of photoshop/illustrator files, RAW editing/cataloging, globs and globs of chrome window/tabs, with itunes/skype/multimedia on the side. Hardly hiccups with 4gb. I find myself cpu-constrained more often than memory-constrained.
The only thing most users should be concerned about when it comes to memory-limitations is when a single application requires a large amount of fast buffer to work with, particularly applications where the CPU can't render in real-time. Video-editing for example, and 3D rendering with lots of detail/textures.
Massive 1gb photoshop files haven't caused a problem for me and bridge can scroll through thousands and thousands of images buttery smooth, but Lightroom seems to always be caching ram when I need it, and I wish I had more RAM working in After Effects.
The XNU kernel manages memory incredibly well for multitasking, even before memory compression was introduced in mavericks. I'm pretty sure the dock-indicator change on 10.8 was to discourage users from obsessively closing out of applications since the OS handles it so well.
A typical workspace for me consists of 1-2 displays, ~4 desktops on mission-control, with 1-5 windows on each. Apps range from large software development projects(IDE, compiler, analysis and testing, simulator, version/source management), a range of photoshop/illustrator files, RAW editing/cataloging, globs and globs of chrome window/tabs, with itunes/skype/multimedia on the side. Hardly hiccups with 4gb. I find myself cpu-constrained more often than memory-constrained.
The only thing most users should be concerned about when it comes to memory-limitations is when a single application requires a large amount of fast buffer to work with, particularly applications where the CPU can't render in real-time. Video-editing for example, and 3D rendering with lots of detail/textures.
Massive 1gb photoshop files haven't caused a problem for me and bridge can scroll through thousands and thousands of images buttery smooth, but Lightroom seems to always be caching ram when I need it, and I wish I had more RAM working in After Effects.
Well, of these two, I think I've decided that the 2013 is the better choice, despite having less RAM and storage space. FWIW, the newer tech and ~2hr longer batter life makes it worthwhile. I don't think the 4GB RAM will be that limiting for my use.
Now, just have to decide if it's worth the extra cash compared to my current 2013 13" base MacBook Air.
Now, just have to decide if it's worth the extra cash compared to my current 2013 13" base MacBook Air.