The MacBook Pro was initially unveiled in 2006, replacing the PowerBook G4. Since then it has advanced rapidly to satisfy the demands of professionals who need to have a powerful portable computer. A few of the new changes introduced design changes but this year is the year of the Apple MacBook Pro Winter 2011 notebook and while the style still looks just like last year, Apple made many improvements which are more than welcome specifically if you have not upgraded your MacBook Pro within the past couple of years.
Advantages
Speed has been improved immensely utilizing the new "Sandy Bridge" generation of Intel Core i processors. The particular Intel Core i5 2620M will be the new engine under the hood of the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Even so, the larger designs, at 15" and 17", now run on quad-core processors, which can power even the most challenging video and graphics editing applications easily. While 4 GB is the minimum memory shipped, you can receive up to 16 GB for a further cost. Graphics is the most demanding use of these devices, and the AMD Radeon HD 6490M makes it possible for them to set new speed records. Hardcore gamers can go for a customized configuration which includes the Radeon HD 6750M. With the Intel HD Graphics 3000 your battery will continue to supply longevity between charges. Simply by upgrading the brand new models Apple is once again leading the laptop arena in all the performance benchmarks that are worth measuring.
Another new technology has been introduced in the completely new large monitor hook-up or Display Port. The newest MacBook Pros are employing Intel's new Thunderbolt interface to further enhance overall performance and flexibility. Along with speeds up to 12 times faster as opposed to the old FireWare 800 interface, high capacity hard drives will finally receive the performance boosts that they need for professionals to transfer considerable amounts of data. One Thunderbolt channel supports a number of devices should they be connected in a chain.
The earlier iSight webcam was actually replaced with the FaceTime HD camera, similar to those found in the iPhone 4 and iPad 2. This permits video calls to be received with those supported products in decent 720p resolution.
Disappointments
One major element which has not been improved however, is the battery, which means it's going to now last less time between charges. In wireless mode you'll be able to still make use of it for as much as 7 hours, which will be adequate for most users. The latest 13-inch model MacBook Pro relies on the integrated graphics of the Intel processor, which in turn results in a slight decline in speed. However, the Intel graphics is superior compared to previous versions, with only avid gamers likely to notice the minimal decrease in speed.
Summary
The benchmarks for the high-end notebook category have been significantly improved with the release of the MacBook Pro Winter 2011 models. These completely new 2011 models are certainly ready for next generation applications and also next generation hardware should the new Thunderbolt interface takes off.
