The 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer from Apple is an extremely portable, stunningly designed laptop computer. Apple's engineers have leveraged the lessons they learned in designing the miniaturized iPad and applied them to the design of this 2.3-pound computer.
The original MacBook Air's slim profile was made possible due to the lack of an optical drive. This system eschews the hard drive as well -- opting instead for 128GB of flash storage -- resulting in an even slimmer profile. When closed, the computer is only 0.68" at its thickest point.
Flash storage doesn't just give you a lighter, thinner computer. It also allows for impressive battery life -- up to 5 hours of web browsing and an amazing 30 days of standby time!
The MacBook Air is housed in an aluminum unibody enclosure, which is as strong as it is light. Because it is cut from a solid block of aluminum, the housing is stronger than those found on laptops built via traditional means.
The computer's high-resolution display makes working on the go a breeze. At 11.6" in size, the 16:9 display feature a native resolution of 1366 x 768 -- greater than that of the 13.3" MacBook Pro! It features a glossy finish and a LED backlight for enhanced image quality and energy efficiency.
Computers in the MacBook Air's weight class are most often classified in the "netbook" category. Netbooks typically feature less-than-full-size keyboards, cramped trackpads, and low-powered CPUs. Not so with the MacBook Air. This computer features the same chiclet keyboard found on every computer in the MacBook series. It also boasts a large multi-touch glass trackpad, giving you full control over your computer -- without sacrificing ergonomics.
The computer is powered by a dual-core 1.6GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor and boasts 4GB of RAM. Graphics are provided by an integrated nVIDIA GeForce 320M GPU with up to 256MB of shared DDR3 memory. The computer features all the amenities you expect on a Mac -- a FaceTime webcam, dual-band 802.11n AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1+EDR,and built-in stereo speakers.
iLife '11 has a complete suite of digital creativity applications. Easy enough for anyone to use, iLife will help you edit your home movies, organize digital photos, and compose original music.
The 64-bit OS features Time Machine backup, which automatically backs up system data to an external hard drive. It also features intuitive Cover Flow navigation, the powerful Spotlight search tool, and Quick Look document preview. You'll be able to use Boot Camp to run Windows on your Mac, or FaceTime to participate in video chats with iPhone, iPod touch, and Mac users.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1.6GHz Intel Core 2 Duo |
| Cache | L2: 3MB |
| System Bus | 800MHz Front Side Bus |
| Memory |
Slots: Onboard Type: PC3-8500 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM Installed: 4GB Capacity: 4GB |
| Graphics Card |
Type: Integrated Installed: nVIDIA GeForce 320M with 256MB DDR3 SDRAM Shared |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Type | Widescreen |
| Size | 11.6" |
| Backlight | LED |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Finish | Glossy |
| Native Resolution | 1366 x 768 |
| Supported Resolutions |
1366 x 768 at 16:9 Aspect Ratio 1344 x 756 at 16:9 Aspect Ratio 1280 x 720 at 16:9 Aspect Ratio 1024 x 576 at 16:9 Aspect Ratio 1152 x 720 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 1024 x 640 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 800 x 500 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 1024 x 768 at 4:3 Aspect Ratio 800 x 600 at 4:3 Aspect Ratio 640 x 480 at 4:3 Aspect Ratio 720 x 480 at 3:2 Aspect Ratio |
| External Resolution | Up to 2560 x 1600 |
| Dual Display | Yes |
| Video Mirroring | Yes |
| Storage | |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive | Installed: 128GB SSD |
| Optical Drive | None |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Ports | 2x USB 2.0 (A) |
| Display | 1x Mini DisplayPort |
| Audio |
Integrated Stereo Speakers Integrated Microphone 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack |
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Flash Media Slot | None |
| Communications | |
|---|---|
| Network | None |
| Modem | None |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n Airport Extreme |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 2.1+EDR |
| Webcam | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Mac OS X 10.7 Lion (64-bit) |
| Security | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Keyboard | Type: Standard Notebook Keyboard |
| Pointing Device | TouchPad |
| Battery | Built-In Lithium-Polymer Providing up to 5 Hours per Charge (35Wh) |
| Power Requirements | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 11.8 x 0.68 x 7.56" / 29.97 x 1.73 x 19.20 cm |
| Weight | 2.3 lb / 1.04 kg |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Reviewed by 17 customers
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I bought this lap top for it's size and speed. I needed it for a convention I was going to in San Francisco. Traveling light was key. It fit into my carry on nap sack easily. Once there, it performed very fast. I was the only person with such a small and powerful lap top. Everyone else had there big, heavy and slow IBM clones. What can I say - MAC rules.
Oh, and for those of you wondering if MAC's can run Windows apps. The answer is YES.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This is a jet compared to the rest. Fast, will run almost everything you throw at it, I have Autodesk Revit MEP on it (3D) and runs great, doesn't complain at all. The way it is built, all alluminum makes it feel very strong, you can take it anywhere. Best buy, you will not regret it. Make sure you get the 128gb at least, 64 gb is just not enough. If you are going to spend [$] on that, it's very worth to upgrade the processor and the ram to 1.6 and 4 gb to end at [$]
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
in home
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I bought this computer to explain my treatment plans to my patients and to show case examples. From many years of being a PC user I always considered this computer as the netbook of Macs. I was way to wrong to think like that. It boots in 12 seconds and shuts down in 3-4 seconds. I am also a photo enthusiast. I use PS CS5 for editing. I can work with my 18MP images as if they were some VGA images. Unbelievable!
Maybe the only downside is the price tag. But I really don't care because it really pleased me way too much.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Going to use the Internet; view and edit videos;
also engage in viewing and processing photos.
Occasionally watch movies and video.
But installed software - this is disaster.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I've used a netbook for several years, both as a recreational travel companion and around the house when I just didn't feel like sitting at my iMac.
I bought this computer thinking it would be another netbook with Snow Leopard instead of Windows XP. But i was pleasantly wrong. There is no comparison between this and a net book, even though it is lighter than a net book.
This computer is incredibly fast. It wakens from sleep in an instant. The touchpad is huge and makes it easy to navigate. The keyboard is full size and feels very much like my iMac keyboard. The only thing I would change on it would be to extend the battery duration to about 8 hours. But this is a small consideration. Otherwise I love this computer
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This a very cool looking laptop. Very small and light, but still a very useable computer and good power for its size.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I have always loved Apple and I personally have dozens of their products, (currently a whopping 9 at this time), but I am just thrilled about my new MacBook Air (11"). A recent injury left me unable to comfortably carry my MacBook Pro everyday for work so I needed something lighter. Frankly, I had a few concerns. I had previously owned the original MacBook Air and really felt it was clumsy, awkward, and it ran very hot, and I was worried about a slower processor. I've had my 11" Air now for a few weeks and find it is just right for me. It's light as a feather, its plenty quick, very quiet, it runs cool, the screen is beautiful, and it goes everywhere with me. I even decided to sell my high end iPad... just don't need it. This little wonder does it all and more. Since I run a business, I don't think I could have this as my only computer, since it doesn't have an SD Card slot or ethernet, but the benefits here by far out way the negatives. My only real con: I do wish it had a more impressive battery life. Apple, you did it again: This time, Im floating on (MacBook) Air!
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I've had many laptops before, and tried a few netbooks in the past. I returned all of the netbooks, cramped keyboards, low memory, and horribly slow processors made them unusable to me. Finally this 11" MacBook Air gets it right: A full-size laptop keyboard, large trackpad, a beautiful high-resoultion screen. And enough power to actually do WORK!
Granted, this isn't a workhorse computer, but it's close enough that you can pound out some graphics, documents, presentations, etc. and not feel too hampered. Probably wouldn't want this as your ONLY computer, but the best companion laptop I've ever used.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I picked this up mainly to use as a photo backup when traveling. Performance is not bad, even with Aperture and large images/videos from an EOS 5D Mark II. It was wonderful being able to edit while on the road, and have those changes ready when I returned home. I wouldn't give up my i7 Mac, but this little machine is a great tradeoff in terms of size/performance.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
when I received my new one from B&H, I am surprised...new skill of laptop.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Typical design excellence from Apple. I was toying with the Ipad, but it really didn't do what I needed it to do. I like being connected when I'm relaxing at home, but my 15" MacBook Pro is too big to have in my lap when I'm lounging around the house, especially when my 2 year old is walking around. Even a 13" is a little too big for my liking when I'm relaxing on the couch.
With the super-light, compact 11" Air, it's a perfect fit. Flash storage means it's instantly on when you open it, so you can jump right in.
Glad I got the 4GB of RAM/128GB HD/1.6ghz processor; this one's the cream of the 11" air crop.
I was worried that I didn't have a drive, but using the Remote Disc feature, I was able to install MS Office from my other computer.
Admittedly, I'm still getting used to the smaller display fonts and am playing with screen zooms to get the balance right.
Not the cheapest machine in this size, not by a long shot, but if you want the best, this is the way to go.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
The 11" Air is really is the perfect laptop. I'm not sure where things can go from here.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
So light! So small! So fast! The SSD really is wicked fast.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Easy to use, sleek and lighter than I even expected. Glad I upgraded on the storage space.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Apple has made a very compelling product in their new line of MacBook Air notebooks. It's made me re-think what I want in a laptop. I expected it to be too slow to be anything more than a glorified netbook, but they've balanced the processor and SSD mix to create a razor-slim laptop that could function as a desktop replacement for many users. Considering most people buy a laptop for mobility, this should be a real winner for most people.
What I like:
* The small form factor
* Great screen
* Faster than I'd guessed it would be
* Great design and chassis
What I don't
* No SD slot in my 11.6
* No back-lit keyboard (love it on my pro)
* A little hard to open
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
For emails
Small, solid and fast
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