Who actually is the 12" MacBook for?

[anticipate]

The MacBooks are quite capable of photo and video editing. They won't grind to halt, but will take longer of course. Just wouldn't make sense to use a MacBook for regular heavy use, but for less frequent use where speed is not paramount they do fine.

I can run full FCPX editing 4K off an external SSD and it's basically smooth with no major issues... IF I transcode to proxies first. Since my MB is a satellite to a new iMac Pro, I generate the proxies there (super fast). I use the same project files on an SSD to the MB, so the proxies are all there. I just have to flip a switch.

I have 8GB on the MB (and 32 on the iMP) so I make sure I am only running FCPX when I edit. But it works fine, with proxies.

NB: If I didn't have the iMP to generate proxies, the MB would take forever to do this. It's not a viable SOLE machine for video editing, I don't think.

 

[TC_GoldRush]

Stick with what works!

Yup!

 

[BeatCrazy]

I can run full FCPX editing 4K off an external SSD and it's basically smooth with no major issues... IF I transcode to proxies first. Since my MB is a satellite to a new iMac Pro, I generate the proxies there (super fast). I use the same project files on an SSD to the MB, so the proxies are all there. I just have to flip a switch.

I have 8GB on the MB (and 32 on the iMP) so I make sure I am only running FCPX when I edit. But it works fine, with proxies.

NB: If I didn't have the iMP to generate proxies, the MB would take forever to do this. It's not a viable SOLE machine for video editing, I don't think.

This is funny, because based on your signature, we have literally the exact same hardware/watch/iPad/iPhone.

My 2017 MacBook should arrive any day now, and it is supplementing the iMac Pro I got last weekend. So you're just moving the SSD (with originals + proxies generated by iMP) between the two machines? Which SSD are you using?

 

[anticipate]

This is funny, because based on your signature, we have literally the exact same hardware/watch/iPad/iPhone.

My 2017 MacBook should arrive any day now, and it is supplementing the iMac Pro I got last weekend. So you're just moving the SSD (with originals + proxies generated by iMP) between the two machines? Which SSD are you using?

haha nice!

Yes, that's right.

I am using a Sandisk Extreme 900 "1.8" TB SSD between the machines. And I am dumping it on a 20TB RAID afterwards/for backup. I just keep running the edits off the SSD because I don't want to hear the fan in the RAID array, and things like thumbnails load a tad quicker, though overall the RAID is nearly as fast as the SSD (about 700 MB/sec on the RAID).

For jobs larger than 1.5 TB or so, I would edit just on the IMP, or create proxies, put those on the SSD, copy the project over and relink.

But it's extremely rare I have more than a TB of footage (we work mostly with H.264/ProRes from pro video cameras, a little HEVC, not much Red) so this SSD works very well. It's also very fast, getting about 800-900MB/sec reads on the IMP, and 500 on the MP (it's a USB 3.1 Gen 2 device).

The iMP is of course much faster when it comes to generating motion graphics or 3D text, etc. But as a remote edit station with proxies, the MP works great. Of note - optimized ProRes 422 4K also edits well the MP, but any time you make a change it needs to render and that's annoying, so I stick with the proxies.

 

[Dave245]

I can run full FCPX editing 4K off an external SSD and it's basically smooth with no major issues... IF I transcode to proxies first. Since my MB is a satellite to a new iMac Pro, I generate the proxies there (super fast). I use the same project files on an SSD to the MB, so the proxies are all there. I just have to flip a switch.

I have 8GB on the MB (and 32 on the iMP) so I make sure I am only running FCPX when I edit. But it works fine, with proxies.

NB: If I didn't have the iMP to generate proxies, the MB would take forever to do this. It's not a viable SOLE machine for video editing, I don't think.

You can edit in 4K on the 12” MacBook? I’ve been looking at the MacBook Pro because I edit in Final Cut Pro X and didn’t think that the 12” MacBook would be enough. I’m currently using a 2012 iMac and that works for the videos.
Other than editing I’m a writer so I write a lot (thousands of words a day) and write for a blog as well, other than that it’s just web searching with a few tabs open. Ever since the MacBook came out I have been going backwards and forwards whether to get one or the MacBook Pro! Hence why I created this thread in the first place.

 

[anticipate]

You can edit in 4K on the 12” MacBook? I’ve been looking at the MacBook Pro because I edit in Final Cut Pro X and didn’t think that the 12” MacBook would be enough. I’m currently using a 2012 iMac and that works for the videos.
Other than editing I’m a writer so I write a lot (thousands of words a day) and write for a blog as well, other than that it’s just web searching with a few tabs open. Ever since the MacBook came out I have been going backwards and forwards whether to get one or the MacBook Pro! Hence why I created this thread in the first place.

Yep! IF you convert to proxies, or use optimized footage. I would not use it as a sole computer, but it can be done, fairly smoothly, if one uses proxies. Adding any motion gfx slows it down but you can just render those portions out.

 

[Dave245]

Yep! IF you convert to proxies, or use optimized footage. I would not use it as a sole computer, but it can be done, fairly smoothly, if one uses proxies. Adding any motion gfx slows it down but you can just render those portions out.

Ah ok, i tend to edit straight from my computer and upload straight to Youtube or save to an external hard drive (depending on if i'm helping a friend with their Youtube channel or editing for a project).

 

[anticipate]

Ah ok, i tend to edit straight from my computer and upload straight to Youtube or save to an external hard drive (depending on if i'm helping a friend with their Youtube channel or editing for a project).

The MB really isn't good as a primary computer as it would take forever to make the proxies. It's good as a secondary computer so one can generate the proxies or optimized media on a fast machine first.

 

[Dave245]

The MB really isn't good as a primary computer as it would take forever to make the proxies. It's good as a secondary computer so one can generate the proxies or optimized media on a fast machine first.

Yea that’s why I’m leaning more towards getting a MacBook Pro, I could get the MacBook to supplement my 2012 iMac which I’ll be updating at some point anyway (waiting for Apple to announce 2018 iMac’s and or a redesign would be nice) i do a lot of writing and so the 12” may be ideal for that and blogging.

 

[anticipate]

Yea that’s why I’m leaning more towards getting a MacBook Pro, I could get the MacBook to supplement my 2012 iMac which I’ll be updating at some point anyway (waiting for Apple to announce 2018 iMac’s and or a redesign would be nice) i do a lot of writing and so the 12” may be ideal for that and blogging.

I'm selling a maxed out late 2016 15" model (Touchbar, Thunerbolt 3, Skylake 2.9 Ghz, 1TB, Radeon 460 if you're interested $2199. That needs no proxies, though it's a lot larger of course.

 

[kmpowell]

I bought a 2017 MacBook 2 weeks ago. Before Christmas my work introduced a BYOD policy, and I've recently moved into a new role that means I am going between two offices and across (from the UK where I'm based) to Paris a fair bit. With that in mind I wanted a machine that was ultra portable to go into my briefcase, but good enough (and large enough screen) to be used on trains/planes and also in the office (hooked up to a screen) as a daily for Office Apps and heavy web browser sessions (a lot of what I do is web-based cloud solutions delivered through a browser).

For context of my usage; at home I have a 2015 iMac 27" (3.3/1TBSSD/16GB) and an iPad Air 2, my mobile is a 7+.

I decided I wanted a full OS on Tablet with touchscreen, so I went out and bought a Surface Pro. That last 48hrs before I returned it due to the appalling usability, the size of it, and the poor build of the keyboards etc. On paper they look excellent, in reality, not so much!

After taking it back, I looked at all the touchscreen laptop devices on the market (Dell XPS 13", HP Spectre, Lenovo etc), but nothing suited in physical size and power/performance balance. I therefore stuck to what I knew best, dropped the touchscreen idea and narrowed it down to a new 12" MB or a new 13" MBP, both the same price. I was all set to get the MacBook Pro due to what I thought was a much better performance, but I really wanted ultra portability so I looked at the MacBook in detail (especially the thread re processor performance here) and realised the entry level m3 was a vastly underrated processor. So I ordered a Space Grey m3 machine through my employee discount scheme and it duly arrived.

My thoughts so far, no regrets! Size and weight is perfect, it makes the MBP look and feel very bulky indeed. Now I have the multi AV adaptor that solves any port issues. It's more than fast enough to run multiple office applications and web based sessions. The screen is a delight to use, and the battery last for what seems like a lifetime! At home my iPad has been made redundant due to the SSD in the MacBook making wake-ups and usage instant, so that's now the kids device.

My only niggle so far is the keys take some getting used to, I'm still quite heavy on them but I'm sure I'll adjust.

So as a work/portable 'inbetween' machine, the MacBook really works for me.

 

[Legionnaire]

I bought a 2017 MacBook 2 weeks ago. Before Christmas my work introduced a BYOD policy, and I've recently moved into a new role that means I am going between two offices and across (from the UK where I'm based) to Paris a fair bit. With that in mind I wanted a machine that was ultra portable to go into my briefcase, but good enough (and large enough screen) to be used on trains/planes and also in the office (hooked up to a screen) as a daily for Office Apps and heavy web browser sessions (a lot of what I do is web-based cloud solutions delivered through a browser).

For context of my usage; at home I have a 2015 iMac 27" (3.3/1TBSSD/16GB) and an iPad Air 2, my mobile is a 7+.

I decided I wanted a full OS on Tablet with touchscreen, so I went out and bought a Surface Pro. That last 48hrs before I returned it due to the appalling usability, the size of it, and the poor build of the keyboards etc. On paper they look excellent, in reality, not so much!

After taking it back, I looked at all the touchscreen laptop devices on the market (Dell XPS 13", HP Spectre, Lenovo etc), but nothing suited in physical size and power/performance balance. I therefore stuck to what I knew best, dropped the touchscreen idea and narrowed it down to a new 12" MB or a new 13" MBP, both the same price. I was all set to get the MacBook Pro due to what I thought was a much better performance, but I really wanted ultra portability so I looked at the MacBook in detail (especially the thread re processor performance here) and realised the entry level m3 was a vastly underrated processor. So I ordered a Space Grey m3 machine through my employee discount scheme and it duly arrived.

My thoughts so far, no regrets! Size and weight is perfect, it makes the MBP look and feel very bulky indeed. Now I have the multi AV adaptor that solves any port issues. It's more than fast enough to run multiple office applications and web based sessions. The screen is a delight to use, and the battery last for what seems like a lifetime! At home my iPad has been made redundant due to the SSD in the MacBook making wake-ups and usage instant, so that's now the kids device.

My only niggle so far is the keys take some getting used to, I'm still quite heavy on them but I'm sure I'll adjust.

So as a work/portable 'inbetween' machine, the MacBook really works for me.

I learned how to type more quiet being in college class, lol. Dont want to be noisy so im like super soft fingered, took some effort but used to it now. Also love my 12 over the MBP

 

[Woodcrest64]

I think the MacBook will be really enticing once the processors can handle 4K video editing. Yes I know it’s an ultra portable but being able to edit 4K on the fly would be really nice. Hoping Apple adds one more USB port too in the next revision.

 

[BeatCrazy]

I think the MacBook will be really enticing once the processors can handle 4K video editing. Yes I know it’s an ultra portable but being able to edit 4K on the fly would be really nice. Hoping Apple adds one more USB port too in the next revision.

Good news, the 2017 models handle 4K editing, no problem

 

[Dave245]

Good news, the 2017 models handle 4K editing, no problem

With 16GB option do you think that would make a difference?

 

[BeatCrazy]

With 16GB option do you think that would make a difference?

Well, I figure 16GB can only help. So that's what I got on mine. I don't have any experience editing 6K/8K video, but I would have to think it might be enough to eliminate that bit of stuttering as noticed in that video.

 

[Dave245]

Well, I figure 16GB can only help. So that's what I got on mine. I don't have any experience editing 6K/8K video, but I would have to think it might be enough to eliminate that bit of stuttering as noticed in that video.

I currently use a 2011 MacBook Pro and a iMac 2012 when at home to edit and work on in general, Final Cut Pro can be a bit of a beast when it comes to taking up memory and processor usage. I’m either going to get a MacBook or MacBook Pro when the updates happen this year, Altho there are rumours Apple are working on a new 13” MacBook to replace the Air so maybe I should wait and see if that happens.

 

[AVBeatMan]

I’m due to pick one of these up tomorrow. Is now not a good time to buy? Are there any planned updates? I’m in the UK and a store over here (John Lewis) is offering 24 months interest free.

Also, is it worth doubling the memory from 256 to 512 for an extra £300?

 

[EugW]

I’m due to pick one of these up tomorrow. Is now not a good time to buy? Are there any planned updates? I’m in the UK and a store over here (John Lewis) is offering 24 months interest free.

Also, is it worth doubling the memory from 256 to 512 for an extra £300?

Wait until WWDC (in less than 2 weeks) before you even consider buying.

 

[maerz001]

I’m due to pick one of these up tomorrow. Is now not a good time to buy? Are there any planned updates? I’m in the UK and a store over here (John Lewis) is offering 24 months interest free.

Also, is it worth doubling the memory from 256 to 512 for an extra £300?

Regarding storage: only if u use it
How much do u use now, can u live with external storage, is money tight?

 

[AVBeatMan]

Regarding storage: only if u use it
How much do u use now, can u live with external storage, is money tight?

Have a 2013 rMBP with 256 and it’s getting pretty full. Not decided if I’m keeping it or not. If not 512 would be welcome.

 

[EugW]

Have a 2013 rMBP with 256 and it’s getting pretty full. Not decided if I’m keeping it or not. If not 512 would be welcome.

Ideally you should keep SSDs partially empty to maintain performance. Some say 20-25% empty space is a good rule of thumb.*


*unless the drive has already been heavily overprovisioned with hidden empty space. Some drive calibration utilities will let you hide empty space so that it is inaccessible to the user, guaranteeing that the drive will always have empty space available to it. So for instance, the drive may usually be 250 GB, but you can set it up to only give you 210 GB, with the other 40 GB hidden away for overprivisioning in order to maintain drive performance.


In my case, I only got a 256 GB drive. I usually don't keep much data on my laptops, always less than 150 GB, and typically well under 100 GB. However, that's because my primary machine is an iMac, and on that one I have a 1 TB SSD, with half already filled.

 

[jpn]

I'm a high-powered New York executive that commutes by train to Manhattan and travels to Asia and Europe 5x a year and does domestic US travel 10x a year. And for those 75 days I'm away from home I don't want to carry a big, heavy notebook with me. On the road, in the business class lounge, at 30,000 feet, I don't need a lot of horsepower. I need to check email, run Powerpoint, read PDF's, run a few basic spreadsheets, Skype into meetings, the usual EVP stuff.

The 12" RMB is so thin and light and has such amazing battery life I can charge it up overnight, put it in my backpack, and literally forget its even there. And I can run presentations and take notes as I hop from appointment to appointment without having to bring the power adapter with me, the battery truly lasts all day.

My RMB sits in a drawer 200 days a year, but on those 165 days I need it it's a world-class solution for business travel. And combined with my iPad Air 2 I can board a plane with a whopping 20 hours of battery life, 100+ movies and TV shows, and those two devices combined weigh less than one of those Microsoft 2-in-1's and the MacBook Pro with no compromises to the tablet or the full-keyboard or media capacity.

So....you ask me....the target audience for the 12" MacBook is someone who travels a lot, or commutes by train every day, or is a student on a vast campus. It's not for the power user, not for a graphic artist or an HD movie compiler. It's a very portable notebook for a very portable audience.

BJ

truly amazing post.
thank you so much.

 

[navaira]

The m5/2016/512 Macbook became my main machine somehow. It's just so comfortable. It's so easy to always have around. If it was, well, faster I would consider replacing my Hackintosh with a hub and just using the Macbook. There is software – Photoshop when working on 6000x4000 RAW files with layers of filters to name just one – that I need something a bit beefier for. But about 98% of things I do – no gaming – don't require more than the little m5 processor that could. And that includes Photoshop work as well, just no heavy lifting.

So now I have a Macbook I use for everything, and a dust-covered super-fast Hackintosh I use for Photoshop, music creation and editing (which I am almost done with), and playing music from Spotify.

@Dave Meadows – regarding the SSD: I had 128 GB on the 2015 Pro, and the thing was always full. I also had a 128 GB microSD permanently embedded – in a flush enclosure – and that helped a lot, but I still kept on having 5 GB free on system drive. Now on the 512 GB drive I have 227 or so free, but of course no microSD slot. I would suggest if you want to keep that laptop for a longer time, and make it your main machine, get the 512. If it's going to be "I watch YouTube on it, and sometimes edit a Word document" thing, don't bother.

What's the return policy in the UK? Here I can return anything as long as it's not missing parts or packaging within 14 days. My rMB was an open box deal someone else returned, and I got it expecting the keyboard to be unbearable, the only purpose of the purchase being the ability to actually use the keyboard for longer than 30 seconds at Apple Store. That was 13 months ago, I'm still using it (and keeping canned air around...) If you have 14 or more days return window, I'd say you're good to go with the purchase. WWDC is on Monday. You can then either return or keep it.

 

[bluecoast]

I think the the MB proposition is pretty simple, it’s for those that:

• Value portability and battery life over everything else.
• Do light productivity/creation tasks where it’s faster to use a keyboard and touchpad. Yes, some of those people might now be served by the iPad Pro
• Like a good looking, thin & light computer. Let’s all admit it - we all like Apple products because they look good. Else we’d all be in a Linux forum, I expect.

Keyboard issues aside, I think the main problem with the MB is the price - it should be hitting the same price points as the Air, given its power (or lack of) and functionality (standard pc features, usb-c only & one port at that).

Let’s hope with the transition to ARM, Apple can get it to sub $1000 starting price points.