With Apple’s unveiling of the new ultra-thin 12” Retina Macbook, you may be wondering, “what’s the difference between all the Apple notebooks on the market? Which one will suit my needs?” We’ve compiled the advantages of each so you don’t have to.
The MacBook Lineup
MacBook Air
The MacBook Air was released in 2008 as the world’s thinnest notebook, just .76 inches at it’s thickest point. Since then, the size has been reduced to .68 inches, weighing in at just 3 pounds. It has an incredible 12-hour battery life (13” version), and a more powerful processor than the new MacBook. It is the only MacBook that does not have a Retina display. It’s also the most affordable MacBook available. The MacBook Air comes in 11" and 13" configurations
Who Should Buy It?
Users who want an ultra-portable MacBook at an affordable price who don’t need the processing power or ultra-HD display for professional-level computing granted by the MacBook Pro line. With the 13" inch model boasting 12-hour battery life, the MacBook Air is also perfect for students or professionals who need their laptop to last all day without charging.
MacBook Pro with Retina Display
The new MacBook Pro is Apple’s most powerful notebook, with faster processors, more RAM, more flash storage, and a brilliant Retina display. They feature a 10 hour battery life, and are the only line that offers a 15” size.
Who Should Buy It?
Users who need a powerful machine for professional-level media work, or desire a 15” display size will be a perfect match for this MacBook. With a high display resolution and built-in HDMI, the MacBook Pro with Retina Display is also a good match for those who wish to use their MacBook as a media center. Gamers seeking a Mac laptop will be best served by the 15" MacBook Pro with Retina Display.
Also offered: MacBook Pro (Non-Retina)
Apple has continued to offer their 13” non-retina MacBook Pro, at $1099. It has not been updated since 2012 and is the only Mac that still includes a CD/DVD drive. At almost an inch thick, it’s Apple’s thickest computer and will likely be discontinued soon. Users who absolutely have to have a built-in CD/DVD drive would be interested in this model as well as those who desire a lot of storage at an affordable price.
The New MacBook
The MacBook is Apple’s thinnest, lightest and newest model - with a 12” Retina display, improved keyboard and trackpad design, and a single USB-C port. It’s also the only MacBook that is offered in colors besides silver - with a gold and space gray option.
Who Should Buy It?
Users who want the latest, thinnest, “coolest” MacBook Apple has to offer. It’s not as powerful as the other two and it’s pricier than the Air, but it’s beautiful.
There you have it. While the new MacBook won’t be available until April, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are available now. No matter which model you choose, you’re getting the best operating system in the world (Mac OS X) on a gorgeous, Apple designed piece of hardware. Trade-in your old machine and trade-up to a new Apple laptop at CityMac today!