The 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer from Apple is a powerful Macintosh computer, in a portable form factor. Housed in a sleek glass and aluminum enclosure, it features a keyboard with an ambient light sensor and backlit keys.
The computer's glossy widescreen display features a resolution of 1440 x 900, ideal for photographers working on the go, or for video editors cutting 720p video. The computer is powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, includes 2GB of RAM, and features 802.11n Airport Extreme Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the SuperDrive DVD burner. The 250GB 5400rpm hard drive provides ample storage space.
All this hardware runs on Apple's Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard operating system, making the MacBook Pro a great choice for any creative professional.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Processor | 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo Processor |
| Cache | L2: 3MB |
| System Bus | 1066MHz |
| Memory |
Slots: 2x SO-DIMM Type: PC3-8500 1066MHz DDR3 RAM Installed: 2GB (2x1GB) Capacity: 4GB main memory |
| Display |
Type: Active Matrix Glossy TFT-LCD with LED Backlight Size: 15.4" Native Resolution: 1440 x 900 Supported Resolutions: 1440 x 900 (native), 1280 x 800, 1152 x 720, 1024 x 640, and 800 x 500 pixels at 16:10 aspect ratio; 1024 x 768, 800 x 600, and 640 x 480 pixels at 4:3 aspect ratio; 1024 x 768, 800 x 600, and 640 x 480 pixels at 4:3 aspect ratio stretched; 720 x 480 pixels at 3:2 aspect ratio; 720 x 480 pixels at 3:2 aspect ratio stretched External Resolutions: Up to 2560 x 1600 |
| Graphics Display Card |
Interface: Hybrid Graphics System (PCI Express/Integrated) Installed: nVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT with 256MB GDDR3 SDRAM; nVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor with 256MB of DDR3 SDRAM shared with main memory Internal Resolutions: Up to 1440 x 900 External Resolutions: Up to 2560 x 1600 Dual Display: Yes Video Mirroring: Yes |
| Storage and Expansion | |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive |
Bays: 1x Installed: 250GB 5400rpm Type: SATA |
| Optical Drive |
8x slot-loading SuperDrive (DVD±R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW) Maximum write: 8x DVD-R, DVD+R; 4x DVD-R DL (double layer), DVD+R DL (double layer), DVD-RW, DVD+RW; 24x CD-R; 10x CD-RW Maximum read: 8x DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-ROM; 6x DVD-ROM (double layer DVD-9), DVD-R DL (double layer), DVD+R DL (double layer), DVD-RW, and DVD+RW; 24x CD |
| Expansion Slot | 1x ExpressCard/34 slot |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Ports |
1x FireWire-800 2x USB 2.0 |
| Display Output |
1x Mini DisplayPort DVI, VGA, or Dual-Link DVI available via optional adapters |
| Audio |
2x Integrated Stereo Speakers 1x Integrated Omnidirectional Microphone (located under left speaker grille) 1x Combo Analog Headphone/Optical Digital Audio Out 1x Combo Analog Line-In/Optical Digital Audio In Supports Apple Stereo Headset with microphone |
| Flash Media Slot | None |
| Communications | |
|---|---|
| Wired |
Network: 10/100/1000Base-T Gigabit Ethernet Modem: None |
| Wireless |
Wi-Fi: Airport Extreme 802.11n Bluetooth: Bluetooth 2.1+EDR |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard |
| Security | Kensington Cable Lock Slot |
| Keyboard | Built-in full-size backlit keyboard with 78 (U.S.) or 79 (ISO) keys, including 12 function keys and 4 arrow keys (inverted "T" arrangement) |
| Pointing Device | Multi-Touch trackpad for precise cursor control; supports two-finger scrolling, pinch, rotate, three-finger swipe, four-finger swipe, tap, double-tap, and drag capabilities |
| Battery | Removable 50-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery; charge indicator LEDs located on left side of notebook's casing |
| Power Requirements |
Meets ENERGY STAR requirements AC: 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz Consumption: 85W |
| Environmental Requirements |
Operating Temperature: 50-95°F (10-35°C) Humidity: 0-90%, non-condensing Maximum Altitude: 10,000' (3048 m) Storage Temperature: -13-113°F (-24-45°C) Humidity: 0-90%, non-condensing Maximum Altitude: 15,000' (4572 m) Shipping Maximum Altitude: 35,000' (10,688 m) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 14.35 x 0.95 x 9.82" (36.4 x 2.41 x 24.9cm) |
| Weight | 5.5 lb (2.49kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
couldn't be happier
As a Mac person for the past 20+ years and a recent user of a Powerbook, I knew I'd like the MacBook Pro, but the machine's design and the features of the Leopard OS...Read complete review
As a Mac person for the past 20+ years and a recent user of a Powerbook, I knew I'd like the MacBook Pro, but the machine's design and the features of the Leopard OS are exceeding my expectations.
I love the Stacks feature and the automatic backup capabilities of Time Machine (though I remain a fan of Super Duper for backups). I look forward to using the iSight camera for video chats with my older relatives and Deaf friends. The picture and sound are noticeably better than our older Mac, and the customizable trackpad is very clever, though no more ergonomic than any other laptop, unfortunately.
One caveat: some software hasn't yet caught up to the world of Leopard, so if you're used to running something on 10.4 and hope to continue using it, better check and make sure it works on Leopard and the Intel processor.
Overall, I am thrilled with this machine and would highly recommend it to anyone who needs something a step up from the basic MacBook models.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Apple Downgraded!
Don't get it, I got it and returned it. No firewire 400. Adapter doesn't work well from 800 to 400. It lags on movies. It is slower than my iMac and my imac...Read complete review
Don't get it, I got it and returned it. No firewire 400. Adapter doesn't work well from 800 to 400. It lags on movies. It is slower than my iMac and my imac is 2.0ghz.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 19 customers
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I bought this MBP to be my primary computer at home for personal business use including application development and photography. It is outstanding!
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I use it for business communications, contacts, capturing photos and internet research. I plan on using it away from the office for limited video capture and editing. It's got a higher resolution that makes it feel like a bigger screen (can see more on it usefully). Heat generation is intense, so it can't practically be used on the lap. It's thinner and better looking than my the iBook G4 it's replacing, but no lighter and has the sense of being a little more fragile. It's also so much faster and with 4 times drive capacity. I've been waiting to step to this model and glad I made the investment.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I am a recent convert from PC. Expensive but well worth it. User friendly and robust with world class customer service. No need to purchase security software or photo processing software. Comes with Iphoto which, unlike PC products, will process raw photos and has nice editing software. Graphics are stunning. Easy to share photos on the web and sizing for emails is hassle free. For professional photographers check out Aperture and Apple's One on One training package. For 99 bucks you get 52 hours of training on any Apple SW application. World class in every way. Going from PC to Mac is like going from a Yugo to a Mercedes. No comparison
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I use the MBP to run a small m-powered ProTools rig for teaching, location recording, and on the move mixing.
I can run loads of tracks, I can expand to eSATA drives with the ExpressCard 34 slot and I haven't had any issues transferring my apps and data!! It is screaming fast and I love it.
The only thing that is bothersome is the square edge around the keyboard... Running the keyboard on a desktop sometimes is a little rough on the wrists.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
This Apple Laptop is a real beauty and shines for itself. I bought this computer as a replacement for my 2 1/2 year old 13 inch Macbook. The Macbook is a great machine, but one of the reasons for the upgrade was the 15.4 inch monitor of the MacBook Pro and the Nvidia graphics card. The new unibody is an impressive artwork, this machine is so thin, that I'm amazed how all the components are organized inside of it. Now when I'm doing location shooting I'll be able to view the images in my screen better than it used to be on the old Macbook. One downfall is that the hard drive should be 7200 rpm instead on the 5400 that came as stock. Great machine, even for a desktop replacement.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I've been a PC user for 13 years now. Most of my friends have always been Mac users. After having my iPhone and needing to get a new computer, I decided that I'd do the switch. I've worked in tech support before so I'm used to using Macs and I figured I might get one eventually, the cost was just the issue. Once the newest models came out and the price drops starting floating around I figured it was time. Who could say no to[$]off of an already excellent product? It's been a breeze to use, and even running Windows on the same machine has been just as easy. Here is my only gripe with the buttonless trackpad. If you are dragging a file from one spot to another across the screen, you have to kinda walk your fingers across the trackpad.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
This is the 1st MacBookPro I've ever had. I love it so far, and I wish I had purchased more RAM for it. The glossy screen is good for displaying but it is like a mirror and doesn't show really good under the bright light.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I haven't had any problems with my MacBook Pro 15.4". I was surprised at how much of an upgrade it is over my 12" Macbook G4 I bought a few years ago.
It's like going from a used sub compact car to a slick new Lexus. Just typing on the black key back lite keyboard is nicer. I was also impressed at how much better the screen image is at 15.4 inches. Everything looks better, easier! It's a much bigger screen then my last laptop, but it doesn't weigh any more then the 12" model.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
Great hardware that can be easily upgraded. Very thin laptop although not terribly light. Screen is the highpoint, killer resolution. Trackpad and backlight keyboard are also very nice features. OS is fast and stable, but the Leopard dock isn't the greatest, I look forward to the next OS.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
We are switching from a PC to MacBook Pro for home use. We love it. It has been very easy to set up and get started. It boots up and shut downs quickly. It hasn't had a problem finding our wireless network unlike a work PC does almost every time. We love the touch pad and being able to use it in the same manner as on the newest iPod Touch and iPhone.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
This is a GREAT computer. I take it with me on all of my photo trips to do daily downloads and first edits. I can then post or send them to specific people.
The aluminum case is virtually indestructible, the monitor is bright and the battery life is second to none!
Great traveling companion for motorcycle trips.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
It's exterior is unique. The way the mac runs is far superior than any PC I've used.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I will be using the Macbook for audio, film, and video post-production. It will also provide the
facilities for production writing as well.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
The new MacBook Pro's all-in-one airframe to crafted from aluminum alloy, refined slim, more silky and beautiful silk stria surface contour modeling; and MacBook Pro has not only beautiful appearance, integrated molding technology also make it more solid and durable. You can place it on a briefcase or backpack at the airport, hotel room or any place at any time up to use.MacBook Pro at a solid aluminum alloy body, the keyboard parts to precision cutting forming process, with various buttons together completely secret; and keys of the surface was carefully designed to match with fingertip touch. Since then typing it into a pleasure. Keyboard has a backlight function, even in places such as inadequate lighting on plane or conference room use, can still see the keyboard.
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I love this computer.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
As a Mac person for the past 20+ years and a recent user of a Powerbook, I knew I'd like the MacBook Pro, but the machine's design and the features of the Leopard OS are exceeding my expectations.
I love the Stacks feature and the automatic backup capabilities of Time Machine (though I remain a fan of Super Duper for backups). I look forward to using the iSight camera for video chats with my older relatives and Deaf friends. The picture and sound are noticeably better than our older Mac, and the customizable trackpad is very clever, though no more ergonomic than any other laptop, unfortunately.
One caveat: some software hasn't yet caught up to the world of Leopard, so if you're used to running something on 10.4 and hope to continue using it, better check and make sure it works on Leopard and the Intel processor.
Overall, I am thrilled with this machine and would highly recommend it to anyone who needs something a step up from the basic MacBook models.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
This has got to be the best laptop I've ever used. It's almost like it's from the future. It blows my mind how awesome this new stuff is. First the iPhone, now this? My god, Apple really is 5 years ahead of their time.
Pros
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Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
I'm an aviation photographer who tends to beat things up on a regular basis. I'm also a PC user...or was. Since Vista, I had been contemplating moving over to a Mac and upon hearing of the unibody/aluminum chassis, I bought this without reservation. Despite the learning curve, I'm finding the laptop to be extremely easy to use and comfortable to adapt to. The build is incredible, ergonomic and simple. To me, laptops have always been simply a tool. This Mac sets itself above the rest. Finally a piece of equipment that rivals the artwork it helps to create.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro Notebook Computer (Aluminum Unibody):
Don't get it, I got it and returned it. No firewire 400. Adapter doesn't work well from 800 to 400. It lags on movies. It is slower than my iMac and my imac is 2.0ghz.
Displaying reviews 1-19