15-inch MacBook Pro/1.83GHz
The first Mac laptop to feature an Intel processor -- two processors, actually, thanks to the chip's dual-core architecture -- the MacBook Pro features some significant departures from the PowerBook line. The MacBook Pro features a 4X DVD-burning SuperDrive (as opposed to the 8X SuperDrive in the PowerBook); it lacks an S-Video port and a built-in modem. However, the MacBook Pro's screen is brighter, it boasts a faster bus speed and faster memory, and a new MagSafe Connector for hooking up the laptop to its power supply. Originally announced at 1.67GHz, this laptop's processor was bumped to 1.83GHz when it shipped in February 2006.
| Reviewed | Full Review |
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A worthy successor to the PowerBook G4, the MacBook Pro is particularly attractive if most of the applications you use are available in Universal versions, or are relatively low-power programs running in Rosetta. However, if you rely on programs that won't run in Rosetta or you rely on resource-intensive software, you should delay your purchase until Universal versions of those programs become available.
Pros: Classic design; runs Universal applications quickly; bright screen; integrated iSight camera; comes with Front Row application and remote; innovative MagSafe power connector; improved wireless range.
Cons: Non-native apps can run slowly; optical drive inferior to that of the PowerBook G4; no FireWire 800 port; intermittent processor noise on some systems; screen slightly shorter than the PowerBook's.
Basics
Reviewed Price: $1,999
Processor: 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo
Lab Tests
| Speedmark 4.5 Score | 152 |
|---|---|
| Cinema 4D XL 9.5.21 | 1:19 |
| iMovie 6.0.1 | 1:23 |
| iTunes 6.0.3 | 1:31 |
| Photoshop CS 2 | 2:49 |
| Compressor | |
| Unreal Tournament 2004 | 48.4fps |
| Tested Configuration | Mac OS X 10.4.5, 1GB of RAM |
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