- 13-inch: MacBook Pro Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz and 4GB Memory
- Built-in battery up to 10 hrs of use
- 250GB hard drive
- FireWire, USB and SD slot
- NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics
Product Description
MacBook Pro 13inch 2.4GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo, 4Gb RAM, 250Gb HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, SD card slot, up to 10 hour battery life) - Apple MacBook Pro - Core 2 Duo 2.4 GHz - RAM 4 GB - HDD 250 GB - DVD ± RW (± R DL)... See more product details
Customer Reviews: MacBook Pro 13inch 2.4GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo, 4Gb RAM, 250Gb HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, SD card slot, up to 10 hour battery life)
I'm not new to Mac's, in fact this is probably my 6th or 7th and it is by far the most exciting i've ever owned.
Being a graphic designer I was after a Mac I could use on the train or weekends away when I can't access a computer. I was wondering if I should spend another £500 to get the 15" version as 13.3" seemed a little small to actually work on. I made the right choice, this is actually perfect... the resolution and clarity of the screen make it easy to use the popular design software packages and it actually seems like I'm at my desk at work where I'm used to 24"! Plus it fits in my bag.
The second worry I had was the core 2 duo instead of something faster, but I have to say it really doesn't matter... it's really fast at pretty much everything. Fro example the most popular professional image editing software (you know which one I mean) opens in under 3 seconds!
The quality of the Macbook Pro is nothing short of outstanding, the aluminium body is a tactile joy to hold, in fact you keep finding excuses to use it.
The price does seem high in comparison to "other" laptops... but once you use a MacBook, not to mention Mac OSX, you'll soon realise there are laptops, and then there are laptops. This is the latter. Shear class, you always pay for what you get.
If you're considering a Mac over a PC, dont even blink, just do it. Some people say, "but a PC does the same thing for less"... not when you look at the parts, pound for pound you still get what you pay for. For example a Subaru does the same thing as an Aston Martin, but I know which one I'd have.MacBook Pro 13inch 2.4GHz (Intel Core 2 Duo, 4Gb RAM, 250Gb HDD, NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics, SD card slot, up to 10 hour battery life)
Amazon Verified Purchase
If an old master of classic art were to live these days, they'd most probably create this product if they were requested to make something that embodies awesomeness the best.
It's the first Mac I ever use, and I was in quite a dilemma as to which one to buy, the 15" i5 version, or this with the 2.4 processor. After much debate I tossed a two penny coin and it told me to go for the 13", which I did buy almost a week ago. It has not crashed on me once, just as expected. It's so fast that sometimes I think it's cheating in some way, just as expected. It's light at around 2 Kgs (what's that in lbs? oh yeah, there is a dashboard widget just for that, 4.41 lbs). The screen may sound too small at first, but if you have the time, make sure you check them in an apple store. The 15" and the 13" put next to each other look like twins. If you look at them from the right angle you can barely tell them apart, and that's something Apple deserves a standing applaud for.
The screen resolution is 1280 by 800, which is the default screen estate for 15.4 value laptops from other manufacturers. If you don't have trouble using an older PC laptop(screen wise) it will blow your head off. Colors are vibrant, the brightness is perfectly adequate even for a sunny day, and I don't even know where to start on the keyboard.
I used to write 4 to 8 thousand words on a netbook before, and I had no trouble doing that. Now that I have this chiclet type keyboard I'd never go back to the old stuff again. Just as I'm typing this line my girlfriend goes to sleep and I don't even have to snap the desk lamp on. The backlit keyboard this computer comes with is more that superb for typing at night. It goes in and out of sleep mode in the matter of seconds, and I honestly can't think of a way to improve wireless connectivity. When I shut the computer closed, it's immediately in sleep mode (you can tell by looking at the white led on the front. If it's slowly going on and off, the comp is zozzing) When I open it, it takes about two seconds to get the last state back, and another two to connect to my wireless network again.
I can't say if the battery lasts for the claimed 10 hours, but I have no doubts as to if it's possible to match that number. You'd have to do some light text editing with few, if any, apps running in the back, but it's possible. During video playback the computer barely warms up and even during that the battery time estimation doesn't dip below 6 hours when it's full.
The superdrive is a bit loud for my taste, but if that's the biggest problem this computer has, I can live with it. The processor tends to get a bit hot when it's on some serious task. I could get it all the way to 78 degrees celsius by playing wow for three hours straight(which it runs marvelously well, just for the record). If you open your legs a little, it won't be inconvenient to play wow, but should you place the comp awkwardly up your lap, it _will_ fry your balls(given that you own a pair).
I'm a first time OSX user, and I have to say that this system is superior to anything I've ever used, and I have quite a few years behind my back as a windows user. Without trying to start a war here I'd like to say that as long as it's up to me, I won't use windows again. Ever. If you're a PC person, and the only thing holding you back is the fear of OSX, don't worry about it. Most programs either have a port, or an equivalent solution, or your windows program can be run under virtualbox/parallels/wmware or bootcamp. I have yet to load any windows software, and I've to admit that I quite like it this way.
The next purchase will be a 80GB Intel X25-M SSD, but not because the system is any slow running off the 250GB 5400 RPM drive it has at the moment. It's to minimize the amount of moving parts and to increase battery life. The speed is a very important factor, too. I could comfortably keep using it in its default setup, but I've decided to get the SSD even before placing the order.
Oh yeah, got the machine for £860, in factory sealed box through Amazon sold by iFozi. They handled my inquiry about a cockup by my bank. Placed the order at 3 am on Friday, the payment went through by 1PM that day, and I had the box in my hands by 12:30 on Saturday. I call that speedy delivery, and it was packed up like it was full of nitroglycerine.
I recommend using both Amazon as a portal through which you can comfortably order, iFozi as a seller, and the 13 inch 2010 MacBook Pro 2.4GHz, 320M, 250GB model. It's already converted me and I expect to spiral into it even more in the near future. Should I say I'm happy with it? No, you probably got that by now.
Help
When I started shopping for a new laptop there was no way I'd ever entertain the possibility of buying a Mac. No way on earth, I was one of those PC people that would rag on the expensive and fashion centric Mac user (in fact I thought Steve Jobs was the devil incarnate). I work in a government IT support dept with laptops/desktops/thin clients and literally live and breathe Windows, but times, they are a changing...
I'm still in shock now, that a few days later (after some extensive research I may add) I bought a Macbook Pro 13". And I am absolutely loving it! It is just an amazing bit of kit. I can't put into words how much I love this thing.
When I did my research into a new laptop, the spec I wanted was this: Approx 13" size, long battery life, ability to play hardcore games like Gears of War and Crysis, a sturdy keyboard and trackpad, high build quality, etc etc. Usual stuff that you have to pay top dollar for. All things considered there weren't too many laptops out there that fit this bill, with one of the better options being the Alienware M11x. Sadly the 11" screen was just too small and the thing is built like a brick. So then I came across this very Amazon page and started reading the reviews of the 13" Macbook Pro. Suffice to say I liked what I was reading, and the thought of being able to run Windows on it had me sold. If other windows users like it then it's worth a punt I thought.
Well, next day delivery later and I'm just blown away. The build quality of this thing is just incredible:
- The screen is nothing short of fantastic. I put it next to my old (and premium £1500) Sony Vaio and the Vaio screen looks like a yellow cloudy mess. In fact, put it next to any screen and you'll think eww. The Mac screen is that awesome! All my photos look just like they should. White is pure and brilliant white.
- I've installed XP and also Windows 7 via Bootcamp and to my utter amazement Gears Of War at full resolution and all settings at full runs like butter. I cannot believe my eyes! Mind = blown.
- OS X has taken a bit of getting used to over the last few days, I will say that, but after a while it's becoming more and more apparent that some real thought has been put into how it works. Windows is an operating system that you install programs on and use your pics, music etc with. OS X takes all your pics, music etc and integrates it within the OS in an amazing (and initially scary) way. I initially thought the integration was a bad move and tried to keep my stuff in a Windows like tree, but it soon becomes apparent you'll be missing the whole point of the OS X system by not allowing integration. Still getting used to it, but it all makes sense now.
- The Keyboard and trackpad are spectacular. And the multitouch gestures are a great idea implemented very well indeed. And the backlit keyboard is a godsend!
- It's so quiet. If you've used any other laptop you'll be familiar with annoying fan noise (My Vaio just revved up and down all the time it was on - really annoying). In normal use the Macbook Pro is silent. When under a lot of stress (encoding HD video or playing Gears) the fans do come on, but are literally smooth sounding, and not very bothersome at all. The fans must be extremely high quality. What a great job the designers did regarding heat dissipation.
- Start up and shut down are very quick. Everything is ready to go the instant it loads. Unlike Windows, which will load, then spend the next few minutes loading whatever other start up items/drivers etc.
- I bought a HDMI adapter for the Displayport. Plugged it in to my 40" Sony LCD and instantly it was ready to go, configured, auto selected the correct resolution the works. If anyone has used Windows on an external monitor you'll know you can spend ages trying to get it configured right.
Most of all, the overall build quality feels very expensive, you definitely get what you are paying for. Bottom line, and I never thought I'd say this, DO NOT HESITATE TO MAKE THE CHANGE!!! The Macbook Pro is just unbelievably good!
Help
Amazon Verified Purchase
The other reviewers are pretty thorough and give you most of what you need to know, so why am I writing this?
Answer: as a writer I have particular needs when choosing a laptop. Perhaps others out there thinking about taking the plunge and dithering, as I have been doing, over whether to move from a Windows system to the Mac, will find my comments helpful.
What I wanted:
1. A machine that is light enough to carry about with me from place to pace without being uncomfortably heavy. I want to be able to use it in any room in my home, and that includes sitting up in bed if I wish.
2. The laptop needs to be well made, solid even, and it needs to be reliable.
3. I want a clear, crisp image on screen, and with enough display space for the text I am working with.
4. I want a swift performance from the hardware that will do justice to any software I may wish to use in the execution of my work.
5. I want an operating system that is steady, while also being intuitive. It should be easy to access and simple to use.
6. I want it to fall within my budget.
7. A long battery life is essential.
Does the 13" MacBook Pro deliver for me? YES, absolutely.
Some other factors to consider:
1. The glossy screen has been criticised. I like it. For me it is stunningly clear. It is just a matter of using a suitable place to work. I do not find that at all difficult.
2. I love the illuminated keyboard. It is so useful when the ambient light in a room is somewhat dim. The level of brightness can, moreover, be adjusted to taste.
3. Snow Leopard is the most satisfying operating system I have used. Windows 7, mind you, is a lot better than previous versions, but the Mac OS is better, from my point of view anyway.
4. I was worried about finding a good, affordable word processor, having read that the Microsoft version of Office for the Mac is disappointing. I decided to buy iWork 09, with its Pages offering a combination of desktop publishing and word processor facilities. I am finding it very good indeed for my needs. It affords both word count and page numbering facilities, as well as the option to work with a clear screen if you want to cut down on distracting screen "furniture" , items you do not require on screen all the time. The modes can be toggled, however.
5. From a graphics point of view I find this machine to be swift and dazzlingly sharp. I could not be more pleased with it.
6. The audio quality is quite adequate.
7. Amazon's bargain price of under £900 was too good to miss. I was so glad to find it.
8. Snow Leopard working on this laptop is so very versatile, it is a pleasure to explore.
NOTE: I am not some intemperate fanboy screaming from my rooftop about my conversion to the Mac OS and machines. I still have a Windows 7 desktop, and I still have an Acer 16" 6930g (the less said about this and the the Acer Support Service the better). But for me, the MacBook Pro was a must buy product. I am glad I chose Amazon to buy from.
A LITTLE EXTRA
I have discovered SCRIVENER - a word processor for writers of fiction, plays, films, academic papers, and for journalists. It is very powerful and yet it remains flexible. You can use just those features you need. It is up to you. To help you there is an impressive range of video tutorials as well as an interactive text-based tutorial. You will have to view them again and again to get the hang of things, but it is well worth the effort. What is more, it is remarkably cheap. Scrivener is only available for the Mac (from Tiger upwards). There are people out there who have bought their Apple Macs just to be able to run Scrivener, so that should tell you something. A TRIAL VERSION is available for a 30 day period, absolutely free. Give it a try if you are serious about writing and getting work done.
THE QUESTION OF HEAT
I have read comments to the effect that the MacBook runs so hot that it can burn your lap. I have never experienced that problem. However, as a precaution, I bought (from a supermarket kitchen section) a flat, light but strong, plastic chopping board, large enough to accommodate my 13" laptop. It is perfect for the purpose of protecting me and any surface, say a polished table top, that might be damaged by prolonged exposure to heat. If you are worried, try it. I doubt that you will be disappointed.
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This is my first Mac, after years of suffering under an old Windows XP machine. I'm going to uni in September so I thought I may as well have an excellent laptop to take and I ended up choosing this MBP. As a total newbie to OS X I can safely say that switching was one of the easiest computer-based experiences I've ever had. The operating system is obscenely easy to use and it's very simple to get all the settings just right. The built in iLife software is a mixed bag really. I can't imagine myself using iWeb or GarageBand but iPhoto is very useful at organising all your photos into one place. Also iTunes, nothing short of a nightmare to use on Windows, is quick and doesn't crash every 5 minutes. But the overall experience with the operating system is fantastic, everything just...works! I'm not saying that based purely on my experiences with XP, I have used Windows Vista and 7. And OS X is not just leaps and bounds ahead, it's developing a new way to leap and bound. My advice to any switchers: make sure you set up an Admin account and standard one for everyday use. This stops you making silly mistakes which may lose you data or damage the system. And to anyone still thinking about laptops, buy this! It's the perfect size for portability and has enough power for the average user (if you're planning on working with lots of HD videos then look at the 15" Macs with the more powerful processers and graphics cards). I couldn't be happier with this laptop right now, it's exactly what I wanted and quite a lot more.
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Having fretted at great length about switching to a mac after 13 year sas a PC user, i can only say I wish I'd switched a decade ago! As a music teacher and working musician, I hate to think about the amount of time I have spent configuring soundcards, adjusting midi settings and generally faffing about to get my computers to do what I wanted. After literally 15 minutes with my macbook I was sequencing more comfortably than I ever managed on a PC, I just plugged everything in and it worked straight away. No messing, no faffing, just working straight away!
Then theres's all the other great features. Back-lit keyboard makes working easy at all times of the day, multi-touch track pad is super logical, battery life is incredible, computer runs almost silently and with little heat-build up, etc. etc..
Yes it costs a little more, but you get what you pay for and after having um-ed and ah-ed for too long, theres not a part of me that regrets making the investment. Goodbye microsoft, it's been real, but I'm most definitely an ex-windows user.
Amazon Verified Purchase
Initially I had no intention of buying a Mac as I've spent years using Windows and thought that learning a new operating system would just be too tricky. However, after lots of research and investigation, I finally decided to give it a try. I'm so glad I did!! Easy to operate, about 5 times as fast as my partner's laptop (which is fairly new and a high spec model), Safari is absolutely brilliant and I even decided to go for Mac's version of office after being so impressed with all things Apple. Short cuts easy to work out, not a single compatibility issue when emailing/transferring info between Mac and pc. Machine itself is sleek, slimline and looks great. The screen quality is amazing. If you're in any doubt about making the switch, please don't be - I've never been happier with a product in my life!!
My old dell laptop off 5 years was really starting to frustrate me - even after 2 re-installs it would still take forever to switch on, an a little old 500M memory unit was feeling old and tired. Had a look at new laptops out there, was hoping to spend about 400 quid, as usual looking for the best deal etc, my thoughts started to change to the new 13 inch portable machines in comet / pc world but could not really get excited about them - always wanted a MacBook but could not really justify it, after seeing the 13" MacBook Pro, my mind was made up - time to treat myself, hopefully this will be a 5 year plus investment. The look and feel of the machine is great, I don't feel like I have to hide it away in a cupboard. Takes about 30 seconds to switch on and 3 secs to switch off, I would say I have enjoyed using the machine and the apple way seems good so far (about 4 weeks), the things you do most work great - Internet, email, pictures, music. 13" screen does not look much smaller than my old dell 15, and machine is super portable, sit on the couch with it on your lap - when surfing the net it should not really get hot unless you are watching vid clips or listening to music. Could not recommend this more to anyone. Works a treat with my iPhone also, was gonna get apple tv but it takes 2 secs to connect mini jack out to my HIFI then using the apple remote App - job done. GO FOR IT - you won't be disappointed. woo!
Hel
Outstanding laptop all around. After needing a macbook for over a year, I finally decided to make the jump from my Acer laptop that i'd had for years and get a macbook 13". I have not found one thing wrong with it so far, everything works as it should, the speed is incredible and its slick design is also a winner. I would never go back to a windows computer after owning this, well worth the wait and the money!
5****
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