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 2.4-pound computer.
To say that the Air is svelte is all at once stating the obvious and understating the truth. The system is defined by its sleek lines and stunning aluminum enclosure. At its thickest point the computer is only 0.68" -- it tapers down to 0.11" at its thinnest.
The system is loaded with 64GB of SSD flash storage rather than an old-fashioned hard drive. 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 -- delivering more pixels than the 13.3" MacBook Pro! It features a glossy finish and LED backlight technology 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 a standard-size backlit chiclet keyboard, the same as on the larger computers in the MacBook line. 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 i5 processor and boasts 2GB of RAM. Graphics are provided by an integrated Intel GMA HD 3000 GPU. The computer features all the amenities you expect on a Mac -- a FaceTime webcam, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and built-in stereo speakers.
iLife '11, a complete suite of digital creativity applications, is installed on the system. Easy enough for anyone to use, iLife will help you edit your home movies, organize digital photos, and compose original music.
The computer is loaded with Apple's Mac OS X 10.7 Lion operating system. The 64-bit OS features Time Machine backup, which automatically backs up system data to an external hard drive. It also features intuitive natural scrolling, the innovative Launchpad application launcher, and support for full screen applications. Mission Control combines the functionality of Dashboard, Exposé, and Spaces -- giving you a bird's eye view of everything that is happening on your computer.
Lion also adds Auto Save to your Mac, ensuring that you won't lose data if you forget to save a file. The OS tracks different versions of your documents, so you can go back to a previous draft of a document with ease. AirDrop makes it easy to transmit files wirelessly between computers, even if there is no central Wi-Fi network available. The revamped Mail application takes full advantage of modern widescreen displays.
And of course, you can expand the functionality of your computer system by browsing through the multitude of productivity applications, games, and other software that is available for purchase from the Mac App Store. Because the software in the store is curated by Apple, you can be sure that it is free of malware and safe to use. And, like the iOS App Store, you'll automatically be notified when updated versions of your favorite programs are available for download.
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1.6GHz Intel Core i5 |
| Cache | L3: 3MB |
| System Bus | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Memory |
Slots: Onboard Type: PC3-10600 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM Installed: 2GB Capacity: 2GB |
| Graphics Card |
Type: Integrated Installed: Intel GMA HD Graphics 3000 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 1152 x 720 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 1024 x 640 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 1024 x 768 at 4:3 Aspect Ratio 800 x 600 at 4:3 Aspect Ratio |
| External Resolution | Up to 2560 x 1600 |
| Dual Display | Yes |
| Video Mirroring | Yes |
| Storage | |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive | Installed: 64GB SSD |
| Optical Drive | None |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Ports |
2x USB 2.0 (A) 1x Thunderbolt |
| Audio |
Integrated Stereo Speakers Integrated Omnidirectional Microphone 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack |
| Expansion Slots | None |
| Flash Media Slot | None |
| Communications | |
|---|---|
| Network | None |
| Modem | None |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Webcam | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Mac OS X 10.7 Lion (64-bit) |
| Security | None |
| Keyboard |
Type: Standard Notebook Keyboard Features: Backlight, Chiclet Style |
| Pointing Device | TouchPad with Double-Tap, Drag, Four-Finger Swipe, Inertial Scrolling, Multi-Touch Control, Pinch, Rotate, Tap, Three-Finger Swipe |
| Battery | Built-In Lithium-Polymer Providing up to 5 Hours per Charge (35Wh) |
| Power Requirements |
AC: 100-240 V AC, 50-60Hz Consumption: 45W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 11.8 x 0.68 x 7.56" / 29.97 x 1.73 x 19.20 cm |
| Weight | 2.38 lb / 1.08 kg |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Reviewed by 19 customers
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This computer is absolutely amazing. I am so glad I decided to go with Mac.
I was concerned about getting the 11in over the 13 but I am glad I got the 11in 64gb. I still have so much room. The size is awesome as well it fits anywhere and is so light. I also bought the Apple Protection Plan and I have already used them. They helped me set up my calendar and email. I already got my money's worth!. B&H Photo was also amazing in their shipping. I ordered on a monday and it made it to California by Thursday! Amazing. I encourage everyone to order their electronics from B&H you also save on taxes!
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
this uses to vacations and travel.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This is my third MAC. The other two are/were larger desk top type. I have had my Macbook Air for almost six months now and thought I would wait until now to write a little blurb on this very fine computer. I use this 'Air' on a daily basis and at first I was used to a mouse, so was having some problems with using the touch pad. Now that this time has passed, I have become so familiar with the touch pad, that when I use another computer, I am constantly feeling for the pad, which of course is not there. The Mouse is a sort of nuisance now. I also particularly like the lit keyboard when the room is dim or dark. The speed that the Air boots up is great. I don't have time to make a coffee first anymore. I also use a PC, but that is very seldom and only when I am down in Florida. I initially bought my 'Air' so that I could transport my files with me while I travel and the very light 'Air' will allow me to do this without lugging around something more bulky and heavy but still give me the flexibility of a desk top type.
I read another write up that mentioned the screen font can be a bit small, but if this is the case, just place two fingers on the touch pad and spread them. The print will increase to your liking so this isn't a problem.
At first I was thinking, what have I done, buying a computer (note book) of this size. It's going to be a problem. Now that I am used to it, my initial thinking is of no consequence anymore. I really love this computer.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I was never a Mac person until I bought my ipad...which led to my buying an iphone and then this macbook air. It's gonna be very difficult for a PC salesman to convince me to go back after the great experience I've had thus far with my Mac products.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Excellent product and good price.
Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
same as the apple.com but has discount.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I am a professional photographer who spenda lot of time with my computer.
I love the macbook air because it is super small and light and works beautifully. Its really easy to travel with. I've not had any issues with it unlike my last computer.
There are a few things I think aren't so great. If it had a disk drive and still could be smaller that would be wonderful. More USB ports would be a plus as well.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
portability
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Mainly surfing in the net and doing my texts, contacting my sons thru skype as well.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
For all those people who look for a great computer fast and easy to carry, this is the one. I am amazing with the performance and elegance. The solid state drive make it a jet.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This is my first Apple computer (besides owning an Ipad2) and it was very easy to use straight out of the box! I am using this laptop for college and even at 2gb of ram it is as fast as my desktop pc that has 8gb installed. It plays Powerpoint presentations and videos quickly and without latency issues. The 64 gb flash storage is a bit on the small side, but an external drive solves that. The Macbook Air is alot lighter and smaller than my old 15 inch pc laptop, but it packs more power.
The computer arrived from B&H nicely packed and protected with no bumps, scratches, or dings. I will be making future electronic purchases from B&H. Thanks!
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Love my laptop! The screen and color are amazing. B&H was super fast and a great deal, thanks so much!
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
The 11.6 inch Macbook Air is wonderful. Silent, fast and compact! The 5+ hour battery has worked great for long flights. This may finally switch me from PCs to Macs.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This is the best laptop I ever owned. I was a sworn PC user for the past 10 or so years but was drawn to MacBook Air because of the design and haven't been disappointed. The laptop is so user-friendly and suits all my needs. I mostly use it to browse the internet, listen to music and chat to friends but also some light word processing and typesetting.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I couldn't be happier with this product! It is light and easy to cart around. I have a 27" iMac for all of my major computer stuff, including photo editing and video production. I only use the mac air to play on when I'm on the couch or on the go. LOVE IT!! Only complaint - since the screen is small, the font on the internet is a bit small for my eyes.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This is excellent notebook for those who need to travel a lot and carry the notebook around with them. Although I dont fall in that category, I love to use it even at home. The beauty of macbook air is that its so slim and lightweight yet its full of performance juice. SSD/flash storage makes booting/sleeping crazy fast. Battery life could have been bit better, it lasts around 3-4 hours for me now. 11.6" screen is small but delivers resolution of a 15" notebook. I am currently using it at 1366X768. The track/touch pad is outstanding. Gestures on trackpad make working with notebook really simple. In fact this is the only notebook on which i can easily work without a mouse and never miss it.
The software side of mac is equally beautiful just like its hardware. Default apps like mail and calendar apps are superb. OSX Lion has lot of goodies in store that you will come to know as time passes by.
For those transitioning from windows, things might be annoying for a few days, but once you get accustomed to mac, you are gonna love it. For those coming from linux, osx feels bit closed but trust me you will soon find its unix lineage appeasing. Its unix from inside (BSD to be precise), so all terminal junkies feel like in heaven. (sources: I use Windows and Linux almost daily). Keyboard with few keys missing is something i am getting used to now.
In the end I would like to conclude that macbook air with worth its price tag. Its design, body, weight, speed and the OSX will make you proud owner of a great notebook. Ordering on B&H was a great experience and the macbook air was delivered within 2-3 days from the day I ordered.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I already have one and got my wife one to make her Facebook adventures easier. She loves the keyboard, speed and ease of use.
The only thing she doesn't like about it is the price.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I'm using this for note taking during class while studying for my law degree. I had originally planned to order the 13" inch model but the small screen doesn't bother me anymore since I got the device. It's very lightweight and easy to handle, extremely fast with everything I've thrown at it and does surpassingly well at modern games as well. All in all very happy with it. My only dislike is that my magic mouse has been acting up when I'm using the wireless antenna heavily but that's more of a magic mouse issue and it's a known issue.
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Comments about Apple 11.6" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
My MacBook Air is just what I was looking for. It is light and easy to carry around. It has all the features you need from a laptop. It's my first Mac so i am still getting used to it but it by far meets my expectations.
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