Because some of us use our computer for business purposes, and not just dicking around. I'm teaching a class at the end of March, and my 17" was on the way out - so I need a computer to replace it ... quick. Sometimes you don't have the luxury of waiting for the perfect computer to come along.
Anyway, after using the laptop for two weeks, I thought I'd share how things are coming along. I've gotten used to the glossy screen for the most part, and it's great for watching movies, and playing games, but I'd still prefer the matte screen.
The edges are still a little uncomfortable, but you learn how to put your hands so that it reduces the effect. I don't know why Apple just didn't round the edges. That couldn't be too hard. Maybe they'll come out with iWrists wristbands so you don't accidentally slit your wrists while using the thing.
The trackpad still feels clunky to me, but I try to use a mouse whenever possible. I've found an annoying feature when I'm scrolling with two fingers in Safari, I accidentally enlarge the test by accidentally pinching. There must be a way to turn this off. Overall, I've always hated track pads, and only used them when i didn't have a mouse handy. I really don't care what kind of technology they put in them because I try not to use them. That's just me though.
I do like the peppy speed of the video. Switching windows etc is very responsive. The body seems quite sturdy when I pick it up with one hand. Having all the connectors on one side is a double-edged sword. I'm going to have to get a BT mouse since there is no USB port on the right hand side, but things seem neater overall, and it should be great if I pick up one of the new cinema screens.
Unfortunately, the original MBP I bought had a freezing problem whenever it got hot. To reproduce the issue, I'd run World of Warcraft and I could get it to freeze. Even if I brought the framerate down significantly, it would eventually bail on me, requiring a hard reset.
So to test to make sure it wasn't the software, I bought a second unit, same model, and swapped the hard drives. The problem didn't occur. However, this one BSODs (black screen of death) from time to time, usually when I'm rapidly closing windows, requiring a hard reset as well. As far as i know this BSOD issue has been happening with both machines, which doesn't exactly instill confidence. It could be a Pro Tools thing, but I've yet to nail down a pattern.
Still, to the chagrin of the fanboys, I have to say objectively that this my least favourite MBP/ PB I've ever owned - and i've owned quite a few since I usually upgrade annually. Actually, the last two MBPs i've owned have been quite unreliable (my 17" santa rosa has been in the shop 3 times already - costing me a lot of productivity). I might hold on to this MBP for now, and sell it as soon as a better option comes a long. Hopefully I'll find out why it's blackscreening, and I'll want to hold on to it.
FYI, I don't mean to offend anyone with my opinions. Each person has their own needs/ wants and experiences. As someone has already mentioned: "to each, their own".