What's the point of Macbook Pro?

[parseckadet]

These days, the only common factor to all the "Pro" Macbooks is the Aluminum Unibody.

So: Pro = Unibody

It`s just marketing, nothing more.

This is exactly right. Forget all the marketing or stupid car comparisons (why people insist on doing this is beyond me). Look at the specs.

OP: There are some questions you could answer that would help everyone give you some better recommendations. First, what are you using for your computer now? Why do you want to upgrade? Is there any way in which it doesn't meet your needs? You told us what apps you use, but you didn't mention if this is the machine you'll be using for work. If it is, I generally recommend you get the best you can afford so that a year from now you're not looking at upgrading again. That said, I may be biased since I'm a software developer and need the best performance I can get.

 

[adnoh]

If you know you can do everything you want on a macbook just buy it.

 

[murdercitydevil]

Think of it this way. You can buy a Nissan Altima, or a Lamborghini. Both will get you where you want to go, and realistically while the lambo is faster, you're still going to drive the speed limit to get there. However the lambo will get you some looks.

The difference is in the bells and whistles. The pro comes with: aluminum unibody, backlit keys, a little more ram, and I think the pro uses glass for the display while the regular MB doesn't.

They have approximately the same weight, and identical GPUs. (the 13" I mean, which I'm guessing is what you're comparing). So the difference is how cool you want to look while doing regular computer things. From what you said, a plain old macbook will be plenty good for you. I'd even suggest a ThinkPad because of the (you can bitch at me all you want FanBoys) better keyboard.

Also, don't let anyone convince you to buy the Pro because of the more 'rugged' body. You shouldn't be in a warzone with a mac anyways.

terrible use of a car analogy. It's not about bells and whistles, it's about better hardware, and overall, a much more polished overall machine. The regular MB will not get you "where you want to go" if it's hardware can't handle the workload. In OP's case, I guess it's pointless because he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games as he mentioned. The 256 MB GPU on the MB already destroys any chances of enjoyable gaming with any modern titles. And that's only one of many examples.

 

[Leudast]

terrible use of a car analogy. It's not about bells and whistles, it's about better hardware, and overall, a much more polished overall machine. The regular MB will not get you "where you want to go" if it's hardware can't handle the workload. In OP's case, I guess it's pointless because he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games as he mentioned. The 256 MB GPU on the MB already destroys any chances of enjoyable gaming with any modern titles. And that's only one of many examples.

I was speaking more in terms of looks, not performance, my bad. And the OP was comparing a Macbook to a Pro, therefore a 13" since the regular macbooks don't come in larger sizes. And the only differentiation (performance-wise) in hardware is more RAM in the pro line.

Once again, sorry for the analogy, if you want a lambo laptop just get a PC.

 

[profoshow]

http://macdailynews.com/2011/02/22/...ed-macbook-pro-and-mac-mini-models-next-week/

just another read.

 

[murdercitydevil]

I was speaking more in terms of looks, not performance, my bad. And the OP was comparing a Macbook to a Pro, therefore a 13" since the regular macbooks don't come in larger sizes. And the only differentiation (performance-wise) in hardware is more RAM in the pro line.

Once again, sorry for the analogy, if you want a lambo laptop just get a PC.

ah i see I didn't know he was only considering the 13"

 

[MacMadeInHeaven]

Next time... just get a plain macbook if you only use it for writing, then there's one more in stock for me to grab

Cripes mate, how many laptops do you need for your photography gig?

Edit: or even... get a cheap pc. If I was just writing on it, **** how it looks, save the money.

I need a reliable machine, how's a cheap pc relevant here?

Battery life, processor and graphics speeds, physical construction, larger sizes.

Isn't the battery life exactly the same for the Macbook and Macbook Pro in the 2010 models?

I think the OP has a valid point. My MacBook that I bought in May 2007 is still going strong (apart from the battery).

I've upgraded the RAM and hard drive sure, but it's run Logic 9, Sibelius 6 and Reason 5 all together at the same time without any problems, as well as all the office-type stuff.

The only reason I'd consider moving "up" to a Pro would be for a 15"/17" screen.

I totally agree with you. I quite like the idea of 15 inches () but that size wouldn't really be portable for me. Also what's happened to your battery then?

OP: There are some questions you could answer that would help everyone give you some better recommendations. First, what are you using for your computer now? Why do you want to upgrade? Is there any way in which it doesn't meet your needs? You told us what apps you use, but you didn't mention if this is the machine you'll be using for work. If it is, I generally recommend you get the best you can afford so that a year from now you're not looking at upgrading again. That said, I may be biased since I'm a software developer and need the best performance I can get.

I'm using a Macbook now that says it's a "Macbook 4". It is the one with the removable battery. I only bought it a year ago. The problem with it is that I let my daughter use it for several months and she has messed up the battery by leaving the machine on permanently. Anyway, I have a new battery arriving tomorrow and if that sorts the problem, I may not bother to buy a new computer.

And yes I use this machine for work. I also own a non-Mac netbook that I use for writing when I'm on the road.

In an ideal world I would own a Macbook Air 13 inch and an IMac 27 inch. Maybe that is what I should work towards and just stick with this Macbook for now.

At the moment I'm getting that "battery is not charging" message and so the Macbook has to be plugged in. Hopefully the new battery will resolve that.

terrible use of a car analogy. It's not about bells and whistles, it's about better hardware, and overall, a much more polished overall machine. The regular MB will not get you "where you want to go" if it's hardware can't handle the workload. In OP's case, I guess it's pointless because he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games as he mentioned. The 256 MB GPU on the MB already destroys any chances of enjoyable gaming with any modern titles. And that's only one of many examples.

Have you actually read my post? I'm a professional writer and I also clearly stated in my post that I'm not interested in using the computer for games or watching videos. So what possessed you to write "in OP's case ....he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games..."?

Also, I'm not a 'he'

 

[kuebby]

It could be your Magsafe adapter that's the problem as well, they have something of a tendency to go bad. You could try just flipping the end that plugs into the computer, that works with my MacBook. Otherwise, if the new battery doesn't work, I'd buy a new power cord before a new laptop.

 

[mmduluth]

Have you actually read my post? I'm a professional writer and I also clearly stated in my post that I'm not interested in using the computer for games or watching videos. So what possessed you to write "in OP's case ....he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games..."?

Also, I'm not a 'he'

LOL!!!! I've noticed on here that sometimes it's hard for people to realize that there are women Mac users as well.

 

[murdercitydevil]

Have you actually read my post? I'm a professional writer and I also clearly stated in my post that I'm not interested in using the computer for games or watching videos. So what possessed you to write "in OP's case ....he doesn't do real work, but he may want to play games..."?

Also, I'm not a 'he'

Apologies for the mixup, I misread your post as "I CAN'T play games or watch movies"

In that case I take back my last posts and suggest that you just stick with a regular Macbook. Although the newest rumor now is that the MB will be phased out with the next MBP refresh.

 

[Beige Panda]

LOL!!!! I've noticed on here that sometimes it's hard for people to realize that there are women Mac users as well.

People also often forget that "He" is commonly a unisex term when it could be referring to anybody. I doubt anyone could be expected to write "he/she" every time they want to use one of those pronouns.

Back to the topic at hand, though... as others have said, if a macbook can do everything you want, then get a macbook. If you need more power (and you won't for writing purposes), get a more powerful machine. People have been writing books just fine on computers for over a decade, and word processing isn't the most taxing task a computer is capable of.

Another option, as others have pointed out, is a PC laptop. They will be cheaper and serve your needs just fine, but if you're used to mac the transition may be difficult.

 

[Politis]

Writer to writer

Writer to writer go for 13'' MB Pro, but wait for the new release MBPs later this week to see if the new 13'' offers a matte screen option and a lengthier battery life; everything else is irrelevant for traditional users of computers.

Gloss, for some who need to stare at it for lengthy periods, can strain their eyes. And the whiteness of the Macbook body distracts from the screen, not to mention the gradual decay of its surface.

And include Google Chrome and Firefox, each engine has its pluses

 

[MacMadeInHeaven]

Apologies for the mixup, I misread your post as "I CAN'T play games or watch movies"

In that case I take back my last posts and suggest that you just stick with a regular Macbook. Although the newest rumor now is that the MB will be phased out with the next MBP refresh.

yeah I believe that is what will happen. Which is part of the reason I'm wondering why they even call it a Pro, if it's gonna be their main laptop in effect.

People also often forget that "He" is commonly a unisex term when it could be referring to anybody. I doubt anyone could be expected to write "he/she" every time they want to use one of those pronouns.

Back to the topic at hand, though... as others have said, if a macbook can do everything you want, then get a macbook. If you need more power (and you won't for writing purposes), get a more powerful machine. People have been writing books just fine on computers for over a decade, and word processing isn't the most taxing task a computer is capable of.

Another option, as others have pointed out, is a PC laptop. They will be cheaper and serve your needs just fine, but if you're used to mac the transition may be difficult.

This may sound like a weird question, but are there any PCs out there that are good? I've had horrible experiences with PCs. I've found Sony Vaios and Compaqs especially awful. Is there such a thing as a reliable, good PC laptop?

Writer to writer go for 13'' MB Pro, but wait for the new release MBPs later this week to see if the new 13'' offers a matte screen option and a lengthier battery life; everything else is irrelevant for traditional users of computers.

Gloss, for some who need to stare at it for lengthy periods, can strain their eyes. And the whiteness of the Macbook body distracts from the screen, not to mention the gradual decay of its surface.

And include Google Chrome and Firefox, each engine has its pluses

any particular reason why?

 

[Politis]

any particular reason why?

You mean the search engines? These are just some of my experiences, dont know if they are universal.
Chrome offers direct search on the address bar but it can be problematic copying pics. Firefox allows for three finger up and down swipe that takes you to the top or bottom of lengthy webpages. The size of the letters can vary from one to the other; for instance, Safari for me often makes some lines overlap.

 

[MacMadeInHeaven]

You mean the search engines? These are just some of my experiences, dont know if they are universal.
Chrome offers direct search on the address bar but it can be problematic copying pics. Firefox allows for three finger up and down swipe that takes you to the top or bottom of lengthy webpages. The size of the letters can vary from one to the other; for instance, Safari for me often makes some lines overlap.

No I meant any particular reason why the Macbook Pro 13 for a writer, as opposed to ordinary Macbook or anything else?

 

[Neolithium]

No I meant any particular reason why the Macbook Pro 13 for a writer, as opposed to ordinary Macbook or anything else?

For a writer, I don't see any advantages of the MBP over the regular Macbook unless you really like the aesthetic differences. The regular MB has more than enough power to handle writing tasks, and if the user enjoys the performance, it sure can't be the wrong choice.

 

[ozred]

Think of it this way. You can buy a Nissan Altima, or a Lamborghini. Both will get you where you want to go, and realistically while the lambo is faster, you're still going to drive the speed limit to get there. However the lambo will get you some looks.

The difference is in the bells and whistles. The pro comes with: aluminum unibody, backlit keys, a little more ram, and I think the pro uses glass for the display while the regular MB doesn't.

They have approximately the same weight, and identical GPUs. (the 13" I mean, which I'm guessing is what you're comparing). So the difference is how cool you want to look while doing regular computer things. From what you said, a plain old macbook will be plenty good for you. I'd even suggest a ThinkPad because of the (you can bitch at me all you want FanBoys) better keyboard.

Also, don't let anyone convince you to buy the Pro because of the more 'rugged' body. You shouldn't be in a warzone with a mac anyways.

Excellent Post!

It's been a long time _proven fact_ that the very best keyboards on any laptop are those on ThinkPads.

I know I've had a lot of them, just as I have had a lot of PowerBooks and MacBook Pros.

Both brands are very good computers, just different.

 

[Politis]

No I meant any particular reason why the Macbook Pro 13 for a writer, as opposed to ordinary Macbook or anything else?

Oh. Traditional users tend to keep their computers for many years and the Macs, apparently, lasts, and Trad users dont need to update performance criteria for games, etc.
13'' because it sounds like you will be using one function at a time and therefore will not need a wider screen to alternate between MS and internet, or to park windows in the wings, etc. And it is far more portable if you go to the British Library, write in cafs, move about with it.
Otherwise the 15'' offers more surface.
Why Mac not pc? I think for trad users the advantages are that Macs are, for the time being, safer. I have both.

 

[nateo200]

If your looking at the regular white macbook immediatly turn your head to the MacBook Pro 13"....its just SOOO worth it. I mean unless white is your preference of course.

 

[MacMadeInHeaven]

Oh. Traditional users tend to keep their computers for many years and the Macs, apparently, lasts, and Trad users dont need to update performance criteria for games, etc.
13'' because it sounds like you will be using one function at a time and therefore will not need a wider screen to alternate between MS and internet, or to park windows in the wings, etc. And it is far more portable if you go to the British Library, write in cafs, move about with it.
Otherwise the 15'' offers more surface.
Why Mac not pc? I think for trad users the advantages are that Macs are, for the time being, safer. I have both.

So did you choose the MBP over the Macbook because you prefer the look of the hardware?

Did you consider an MB Air 13 inch at any point?

 

[Politis]

So did you choose the MBP over the Macbook because you prefer the look of the hardware?

Did you consider an MB Air 13 inch at any point?

Look and hardware. The white was not for me. Air is if you are really on the move, but for using the keyboard at length, I preferred the pro's greater stability. Air is fab on the hop, passing it around at meetings. Ultimately, it is personal preferences and rather expensive guess work.

 

[greytmom]

It's been a long time _proven fact_ that the very best keyboards on any laptop are those on ThinkPads.

Proven fact? Opinion. I have a Thinkpad at work, and I do not like the keyboard at all.

 

[sjinsjca]

I am a writer... Do you think Apple are trying to faze Macbook out?

Anyone see a problem here?

 

[BubbaMc]

Backlit keyboard, Firewire, Unibody.

 

[JaisHTX]

I am confused by the word Pro? I am a writer and I use my Macbook just for writing, sending emails and surfing the net. The only programmes I use really are MS Word, Outlook, Scrivener and Safari. I don't do gaming or watch videos etc. I am looking to buy a new Mac within the coming weeks and I am wondering if a plain old Macbook is good enough for me. What is the difference between that and a Macbook Pro? What are the advantages of the Pro?

Do you think Apple are trying to faze Macbook out?

I don't know if anyone else has mentioned it, I'm sure they have (I just haven't read through the thread), but you should just get a Macbook Air. I have a friend who uses his Air for a lot more than what you do -- and it works great for him.