We’ve been waiting for the cult of Steve to let us in on the new MacBook designs for some time now and they definitely didn’t disappoint with the designs themselves. Slightly thinner, slightly lighter, and slightly faster. Oh, did I mention the MacBook is now made of aluminum? That’s right, no more of that BS scratchy-time plastic that made the previous generation feel cheaper than they really should.
Apple has upgraded quite a few of the components, giving the MacBook dedicated graphics and bringing it closer to the specs of the MacBook Pro. I think this is a great idea for us the consumer since it gives us a 13.3″ Mac that isn’t crippled. Even the MacBook Air has real graphics in it now, making it a viable option…even if it is still a bit slow and overpriced.
The problem, though, is that they all have glossy screens, which are horrible for glare. Glare is just about the most annoying thing in the world when it comes to laptops and I really don’t think I could handle it. It’s really too bad since there are some great new things here like the fact the hard drive is easily accessible and therefore, easily replaceable.
However, I think Apple dropped the ball with the glossy screens here so I won’t be upgrading from my MacBook Pro until…maybe the next version of Mac OS or something. However, I know some folks in the community that are joining the cult tomorrow, when the new MacBooks hit stores.
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It does look really glossy, but you can’t really tell how it is until you see it in person. Sometimes it’s just the picture
-Mike
I’m going to get one just for the hell of it.
My current Dell 700m is glossy and I love it. It makes he screen look so much more vivid and colorful…I think it’s a good thing. Matte finishes are lame. If it’s sunny, you shouldn’t be on the computer anyways!
For serious graphic works, no one would use a glossy screen. However, they do make video pop.
I just got word from someone that bought one, who came from a 15.4 MBP, that the screen is so glossy, he started thinking he made a bad decision. The glare was horrible because it is overly reflective. Other than that, it is sexy as hell, but it can’t be used in any sort of light.
I think I might have to wait for Steve to do his “One More Thing” and unleash an Anti Glare version at MacWorld.
I can’t afford one but I was reading about it.
People are saying that putting an anti-glare film on the screen is an idea. Others are saying that the reflection is the price to pay for the improvement of contrast.
@Daniel Kemp:
There are also other small issues like the characteristics of the MB screen. It acts like an LED backlit TN panel, which means that the black levels and the color gamut might be suspect. This could make calibration and print output for graphics difficult. Engadget had that side by side with the MBP and there is clearly a different screen in the MB. Having said that, I might still bite the bullet and get it. I really enjoy not having a honking huge laptop.
@Stephen: Well I am sure that people can just connect their Macbook/Macbook Pro to a very good external monitor if they need to be very sure of their colors.
It’s good to know though. Thank you Stephen.
Numerous people have said that the new MacBooks are alright, but that they are hoping for more from the company that pleases many. It is pretty hard for Apple to satisfy its consumer base at this time. They always want more, which is great for the company.
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