15-inch MacBook Pro/2.4GHz
The MacBook Pro gets a new chipset, which means processor bumps, a faster frontside bus, and more RAM capacity. However, the more significant refinements in this update are improvements to the display -- this 15-inch model's LCD is backlit by light-emitting diodes for improved battery life and less environmental impact -- and a new graphics system powered by the Nvidia GeForce 8600M GT.
| Reviewed | Full Review |
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Current MacBook Pro Core 2 Duo owners will want to skip this upgrade, but owners of the original MacBook Pro and PowerBook will see a dramatic performance boost. Of the two 15-inch models, the $1,999 configuration is a better bargain than this $2,499 counterpart, which offers 40GB more storage capacity, more graphics memory, and a modest processor bump for $500 more.
Pros: Classic design; excellent overall performance; much improved graphics performance; bright and environmentally friendly screen; 2GB of RAM, which is expandable to 4GB.
Cons: Some software needs tuning for new graphics chip; no PCMCIA slot or eSATA port; a little pricey compared with $1,999 model.
Basics
Reviewed Price: $2499
Processor: 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
Lab Tests
| Speedmark 5 Score | 199 |
|---|---|
| Cinema 4D XL 10.5 | 0:55 |
| iMovie HD 6 | 0:50 |
| iTunes 7.5 | 1:06 |
| Photoshop CS3 | 1:17 |
| Compressor | 2:08 |
| Unreal Tournament 2004 | 69.9fps |
| Tested Configuration | Mac OS X 10.5 with 2GB of RAM |
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