NORMAL? Hinges on my New Macbook Pro So Tight. Like Prying Open an Oyster

It sounds like you might be trying to pull it apart, rather than lift the lid open.

How is it if you put the MacBook Pro flat on a table, and just put a finger or your thumb in the recess to lift up the lid without putting your hand anywhere else on the machine to open it? (i.e. don't try and hold it in place)

 

I've used both the air and the rMBP, and the rMBP's hinge is definitely *much* tighter. I have to hold the machine in place when opening it to prevent it from lifting off the table. The one I exchanged due to burn-in was equally tight. I'd bet yours is normal.

 

Mine is tight as hell as well. I have to use both hands to open the lid.

 

This...

 

I have the same problem actually, like the magnet is too strong. You cannot just lift open the lid, you'll lift the entire front of the computer off the table before it will separate. You have to use two fingers and pry the thing open. Doesn't bother me too much though, I use it in clamshell mode almost exclusively.

 

Anything that is tight are much better... If you know what I mean

 

People used to complain it was too loose (circa 2008) and fell full open too easily. Never happy these people. I'd really like it to be too tight over too loose. Wink wink. Nudge nudge.