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Apple MacBook Pro 13in June 2009 release
Apple finally notices there's a recession
The 13in MacBook Pro managed to last for four hours when running full-screen H.264 video off the hard disk. That’s half an hour less than we got from the 15in model, but is still pretty impressive and is a full hour more than we got from its predecessor. You can also add about another hour for less demanding tasks such as surfing the net or typing away in Microsoft Word.
It's even possible to boot from storage in the SD card slot
The size and weight of the unit make it easy and comfortable to carry around. It’s not as light as the MacBook Air, but its 2.0Kg weight balances nicely in your hands. It ran quietly and without getting too hot even when we were running hours of video off the hard disk, so you can kick back at home with the machine sitting on your lap in complete comfort.
Additional little touches, such as the backlit keyboard and the multi-touch gestures that you can perform on the trackpad, all add to the stylish feel of the unit. It certainly leaves the less-expensive white plastic MacBook looking a little drab. Even though both models have the same size screen, the MacBook Pro is about 0.25Kg lighter and 0.3in thinner, so Apple’s definitely making the effort to tempt people away from the basic MacBook model.
Verdict
Although the unibody design is sleek and attractive, the original Aluminium MacBook definitely looked over-priced when compared to its white plastic counterpart. Apple has clearly acknowledged that mistake with this update, as the improved performance, battery life and lower pricing certainly offer better value for money. The £899 model will probably be the big seller, but both models will satisfy the clear demand from Mac fans for a 13in addition to the MacBook Pro range. ®
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