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I just got a MBP 15" after 5.5 yrs with a G4 PB. I never used a case or cover in any form on my G4 PB and have 3-4 small scratches on the back - - - this is very bothersome to me since I took care of it so well. So for my new MBP, I decided to buy Speck's new SeeThru Satin (black) and it looks mighty fine. In fact, it accents the black bars around the screen when open and looks wicket hot when closed. In addition, I know that my computer will be nearly scratch-proof as long as I clean the case once in a while. In addition, the screen is see-through(ish) providing me with the apple logo shining thru when turned on. Very sweet looks and different from all the other MBP's.

Overall, I am very happy with my case and picked case over cover for the permanent protection versus the cover's transportation-only protection.

Good luck in your decision.
 
Got a Speck case for my whitebook a while back and it's still in good shape. As mentioned earlier if dirt gets under there it can scratch up the mac. But it's well worth it IMO, my macbook looks just like the day I got it. I got one for my UMP but I decided that I would much rather have an invisible shield. It's about 2 weeks old but it's holding up excellently. I just don't like the added bulk with the Speck case, but it does the job.
 
I hate the replies on this thread, or any other thread regarding cases. As if one purchasing a case means you're retarded or something. Like c'mon guys, give me a break. Do I really need to hold your hands? Obviously a person has their own reasons to have a case. PERIOD! There's not need to go on explaining why they don't need a case. Or how the laptop is meant to be used, and not a 'museum piece' as someone said.
 
I can't imagine any covering that wouldn't inhibit cooling to some degree or another. Imho the inside of the MBP is as important as the outside.
 
Absolutely, the only two small pin sized marks are from when people in my family that I explicitly told not to touch it used it somehow. 1 on the outside from my sister using it as an arm rest while using her computer, one from my aunt because she had a ring. I have just learned to be an ass and not let anybody touch it and it stays in good condition because I am carful with things. I would never cover such a beautiful computer with plastic, might as well get a windows box and hackintosh it.
 
Yes, I would use it without a Speck Case, and I do. I've been using Apple Laptops without Speck cases, for 15 years, or so. No problems, yet. I never even heard of Speck cases, until I saw one at Thanksgiving. If that's what you want – great, but I have no particular need or interest in covering my MBP in a Speck case. Putting a plastic case over the alumiunum case would be redundant for me.

My 4 year old MBP didn't get scratched up, much, without it. And – even if it had gotten scratched up – they're meant to be used.
 
I bought my computer to use. If, in the midst of me using it, it gets scratched, dented, etc during use, oh well. It was bought to use.

I bought a notebook for portability, the fact that it is less than 1" thick is impressive, and very nice. Why would I add an extra 1/4" to it?

My advice: buy a sleeve to protect it during transport, and be careful with it any other time.

this is my philosophy as well! got to say though (OP) that as a fellow owner of a 17", it doesn't look anywhere near is as good as the other sizes with the cases on. it's just too much plastic.
 
After finding unsightly scratches and dents on my last laptop, I went with a Macally Bookshell case this time around. I love the leather look and feel of it.
 
I use an Incase sleeve for when I haul my MBP around in my backpack, but I plan on getting a hardshell for dent protection when I carry it between the desk/couch/bed. I'm always afraid it will slip off the bed or couch.

I wish they had a solid matte hardshell, I think a plain laptop with no logos looks great
 
I don't, and wouldn't want to use a case protector on it anyway, I rather looks at that clean/sharp aluminum look and thin form without anything added on it. Plus my briefcase has a separate neoprene like insert inside for laptops that it goes in.
 
i too have just built my perfect MBP. Its all shiney and lovely, but something to bear in mind, macs last! Ive used them for a decade now or thereabouts and each one ive had has stood me at least three to four years without any major need to upgrade. Im a graphic designer so they get there daily pounding!

Whilst I can appreciate the desire to keep these beautiful objects pristine, think about it, whats the real reason? If its for resale, unless you are going to sell on in a few years to a complete fanatic that collects, anyone buying a second hand mac isnt going to want to spend a fortune and as such really wont expect a 'brand new looking' computer. Theyll be way more impressed with a good running system with a new battery than something that looks immaculate - but costs rather a lot.

the temptation is to keep your mac in pristine, perfect condition, but in reality, its just a tool, its a tool that works hard and tools get dirty, the gather wear and tear. Think of scratches and dents as happy passings of time, things that have occurred in order to get things done! think of your mac as a hammer, or a pencil or a canvas! These 'objects' are there to help you be more productive, and not obsessive.

Chances are, by the time you come to sell your system, three or four years down the line, your macbook will be so outdated youll not care less what it looks like, youll just want a new one.

So people, look after your computer and she'll look after you, but dont waste time crying over cosmetics! Its what you do with it that counts, not how 'new' it looks!

If your system looks tired after a few years, youll smile very fondly trust me. Memories are worth a great deal!

Good luck
 
P.S, for what its worth, if you are a puritan and insist on keeping your computer in brand new condition, do not - I REPEAT...do not! get any sort of plastic casing for it. Tight fits, trapped dust and heat will scratch your nice aluminium to death - been there done that.

Just get a neoprene sleeve, and if youre really anal, a pelican hard case - amazing bits of kit and completely bomb proof!
 
plastic cases in my experience have worked

do take it off every 2 week or so to clean off any particles

they provide protection from accidental scratches and bumps that a neoprene case can't provide especially when you have to take the macbook out of the case in order to use it
 
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