I've been on here pretty religiously the past week or so reading thoughts and reviews on the new dGPU 15" MBP model, and today decided to pull the trigger. I initially ordered it online last night, but heard on these forums that many stores had some (secretly?) in stock, so I drove 35 minutes to the nearest store here in LA and guess what...they had "a few" in stock. They helped me cancel my online order and I'm writing this review from the new model. If you're in the same boat, I recommend checking out a store. I also recommend unboxing it in front of rep to check it for issues.
Anyway, if you're like me, you've read the benchmarks and seen the numbers. I thought I would let you know my first impressions with it in real-world use, because numbers only go so far.
Disclaimer: I'm upgrading from a 2010 MBP (non-retina), so this is quite a leap for me. I've also used 2013 and 2014 models in my office briefly, but this is my first purchase of a new computer in 5 years, and first time using the new Force Touch trackpad. My initial impressions:
1) SSD: This thing is FAST. Apps open before the icon can bounce. It starts up in a few seconds. When I open the lid, it's ready. Saving photoshop files is fast. Safari is incredibly snappy. I've never used an SSD this fast, it's quite nice.
2) GPU: Sliding between Spaces is buttery smooth, even using the iGPU (Iris Pro 5200). Mission Control is smooth as well. I've downloaded gfxCardStatus to allow me to choose which GPU to use, and the difference between the iGPU and dGPU seems indistinguishable for common tasks (both are solid). Only when I open After Effects / Final Cut Pro does it make a difference. I'm downloading Steam right now and will update later on gaming performance. I've heard many complaints here on the forums about Apple not choosing the top-of-the-line GPU etc, and I understand the frustration, but this thing is doing quite well so far. I'm editing HD video and only heard the fans kick on for a few seconds in the last couple hours.
3) The Force Touch trackpad is wonderful. I've read a few reviews that didn't like it, but I honestly love it. The ability to choose how the click feels is great (I have it on the 'firm' setting which feels just like a button), and I've found myself already using the Force Click on words to grab definitions etc. I also love the quiet sound it makes, and how much faster clicking seems now. I feel like I can fly around more with my trackpad.
4) The speakers are much improved compared to my 2010. Maybe that goes without saying, but I thought my 2010 was just fine. The speakers on this sound more 'full' and powerful.
5) Display: Retina. What can I say? Anyone who has used retina knows. I won't go back to non-retina. Absolutely stunning display on this thing. People in my office gathered around to look at it, and they also have retina displays. I'm not sure if it was my background, or because it was new, or what. But it looks fantastic.
Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like to know. It's a huge purchase and I know it helps to read the experience from others.
Cheers
Anyway, if you're like me, you've read the benchmarks and seen the numbers. I thought I would let you know my first impressions with it in real-world use, because numbers only go so far.
Disclaimer: I'm upgrading from a 2010 MBP (non-retina), so this is quite a leap for me. I've also used 2013 and 2014 models in my office briefly, but this is my first purchase of a new computer in 5 years, and first time using the new Force Touch trackpad. My initial impressions:
1) SSD: This thing is FAST. Apps open before the icon can bounce. It starts up in a few seconds. When I open the lid, it's ready. Saving photoshop files is fast. Safari is incredibly snappy. I've never used an SSD this fast, it's quite nice.
2) GPU: Sliding between Spaces is buttery smooth, even using the iGPU (Iris Pro 5200). Mission Control is smooth as well. I've downloaded gfxCardStatus to allow me to choose which GPU to use, and the difference between the iGPU and dGPU seems indistinguishable for common tasks (both are solid). Only when I open After Effects / Final Cut Pro does it make a difference. I'm downloading Steam right now and will update later on gaming performance. I've heard many complaints here on the forums about Apple not choosing the top-of-the-line GPU etc, and I understand the frustration, but this thing is doing quite well so far. I'm editing HD video and only heard the fans kick on for a few seconds in the last couple hours.
3) The Force Touch trackpad is wonderful. I've read a few reviews that didn't like it, but I honestly love it. The ability to choose how the click feels is great (I have it on the 'firm' setting which feels just like a button), and I've found myself already using the Force Click on words to grab definitions etc. I also love the quiet sound it makes, and how much faster clicking seems now. I feel like I can fly around more with my trackpad.
4) The speakers are much improved compared to my 2010. Maybe that goes without saying, but I thought my 2010 was just fine. The speakers on this sound more 'full' and powerful.
5) Display: Retina. What can I say? Anyone who has used retina knows. I won't go back to non-retina. Absolutely stunning display on this thing. People in my office gathered around to look at it, and they also have retina displays. I'm not sure if it was my background, or because it was new, or what. But it looks fantastic.
Let me know if there's anything specific you'd like to know. It's a huge purchase and I know it helps to read the experience from others.
Cheers
