MacBook Air or MacBook Pro? What laptop to get
With the release of the new MacBook Air the decision on which Apple laptop to get is narrowed down to two choices especially since Apple has eliminated the white plastic MacBook from its laptop line-up. If you have money to spare and want a piece of Apple's business but can't decide between the new MacBook Air or the relatively new MacBook Pro here's a little guide on the two laptops.
Before the new editions of the MacBook Air was released the choice between the Air and the Pro was relatively easy to make. The MacBook Air was really an expensive; traveler's only laptop, while the Pro was supposedly for those really looking for a more serious hardware. Now with new processors and the Lion OS in its system, the Air is giving the older MacBook Pro a run for its money. Let's break down the differences in the two laptops.
In terms of pricing the Air is going to cost less than the Pro even if you get all the Air upgrades. The two versions of the MacBook Air costs $999 and $1299 for the 11-inch model and the 13-inch model respectively. The MacBook Pro has three versions, a 13- inch that costs $1,199, a 15-inch model that costs $1,799 and a 17-incher that costs $2,499. Just going by screen size the 13-inch Air is still going to cost less than its 13-inch Pro cousin.
Another consideration when you buy a laptop is what you'll use it for. The MacBook Pro would still be the go to choice for those with serious computer needs. It's basically a portable desktop with faster processor and more storage than your MacBook Air. Gamers and editors will go for the more powerful Pro while casual users who only surf the internet or type documents will be better suited to save their money with the MacBook Air.
In terms of longevity the Pro's faster processor will also be more durable in the long term and can handle any major software upgrades. The MacBook Air may ship with the latest Lion OS X but MacBook Pro users can also download the upgrade without any problem.
If you're a frequent traveler then you might lean more towards the Air because of its light weight. The Air weighs in at only 2.5 pounds for the 11-inch model while the MacBook Pro weighs at least 4.5 pounds. The MacBook Air is still the best lightweight laptop out there.
Apple has managed to cater to different users with its two laptops. Users who want portability and aren't heavily invested in processing speeds will go for the Air; those with more serious needs will shell out the money for the MacBook Pro. Either way, Apple will be happy with any choice.