The 13.3" 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 3-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 256GB 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 7 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 13.3" in size, the 16:10 display feature a native resolution of 1440 x 900 -- delivering the same amount of pixels as the standard 15.6" 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 1.7GHz Intel Core i5 processor and boasts 4GB 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 | 1.7GHz Intel Core i5 |
| Cache | L3: 3MB |
| System Bus | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Memory |
Slots: Onboard Type: PC3-10600 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM Installed: 4GB Capacity: 4GB |
| Graphics Card |
Type: Integrated Installed: Intel GMA HD Graphics 3000 with 384MB DDR3 SDRAM Shared |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Type | Widescreen |
| Size | 13.3" |
| Backlight | LED |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:10 |
| Finish | Glossy |
| Native Resolution | 1440 x 900 |
| Supported Resolutions |
1440 x 900 at 16:10 Aspect Ratio 1280 x 800 at 16:10 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: 256GB 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 | 1x SD |
| 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 7 Hours per Charge (50Wh) |
| Power Requirements |
AC: 100-240 V AC, 50-60Hz Consumption: 45W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 12.8 x 0.68 x 8.94" / 32.51 x 1.73 x 22.71 cm |
| Weight | 2.96 lb / 1.34 kg |
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Reviewed by 23 customers
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Computer is fast, light, screen is beautiful.
We use it for everyday computing.
Battery life could be better.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Both of my laptops crashed within a week of each other so I needed a new computer ASAP. I found BH online and ordered a MacBook Air and my product arrived within 3 business days. My MacBook is amazing, I use it for music, photos, work, and personal use and it has exceeded all of my expectations. I purchased the 256gb one, and after putting 6000 songs and 2,000 photos, I still have over 200gb left.. It's amazing!!
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Right up front, I'll admit to being a longtime Mac user and supporter. One downside to that is complete lack of support from our company's I.T. department. However, they do give me plenty of contempt. That's fine with me. While my co-workers are issued PCs with all kinds of control and monitoring software pre-installed, my Mac sits comfortably outside the cone of corporate control. The rewards outweigh the inconveniences. One major inconvenience, however, is the difficulty of doing meaningful work while traveling outside the office. Company-issued PCs won't handle what the Mac will do, and no sooner do I get to the airport than someone at the office expresses a critical need for something that I need my Mac to do. The new MacBook Air solves the issue completely. Although drive space is limited (256GB), I can keep all the necessary applications loaded, and grab document files from a cloud drive. As long as I've got a wireless connection, I can do pretty much anything on the road that I can do at the office. After all, the MacBook Air is a full-fledged computer in a slim, lightweight, sturdy case. It boots fast, loads applications fast, and flat works the way you'd expect a Macintosh computer to work. Since VPN is a snap on Macs, I don't worry about connecting to remote servers over public networks. I had some anxiety over the lack of a CD/DVD drive in the MBA, but it's so easy to "borrow" the services of another computer's drive, that I haven't found it to be limiting at all. The other missing nicety is an ethernet port. First trip I took with the MBA resulted with me in a hotel room that didn't have wireless connectivity, but just a wired ethernet connection. Fortunately, I had decided to travel with a USB/ethernet adapter, and it worked flawlessly. The other must-have accessory is a VGA adapter for LCD projector connection. After all, business couldn't survive without PowerPoint presentations, could it?The more I use the MacBook Air, the more I like it, and the more I depend on it. Even while in the office, I have it running alongside my desktop Mac. Having two Macs running side by side often lets me accomplish a lot more at once. That way, I can get to the goof-off stuff quicker. Hey, I'm not a workaholic.I really like the MacBook Air. Would I replace a desktop Mac with it? No. Does it make a really great companion piece. Oh, yeah! Should have done this a long time ago.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I've been in the IT industry for about 18 years now. The past 13 years have been in utilizing the Microsoft operating system. In fact, I've achieved multiple certifications in Microsoft server technologies. Managing teams of Microsoft engineers for the past 8 years, my current team looks to me like I'm crazy to go with OSX. The last time I've ever touched an Apple computer was the II-GS, so I took a chance with the MBA 13". I wanted something that would last me a long time. My family and extended family have gone the path of Mac as well, so I said why not? Given I have many years in monthly Microsoft patch deployments, I wanted to try something new. I am very impressed! This machine's form factor is the best out there. I've done a lot of research in other ultrabooks, but could not find one comparable. Absolutely love it! Go out and get one.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I have allways used PCs and my work computer is a pc. I can connect to the computer at work with the air and every thing works great.
It is really light and easy to take on trips.
I would recomend this for anyone.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I bought the MacBook Air 13.3", 256 GB SSD after researching review after review for my very first Apple computer experience. I'm an educator and use it for both work and at home for many diverse applications.
I'm amazingly suprised at how easy the transition to the Mac OS X Lion has been tyhus far. While still in the learning curve, I can only say that it is a thrill to experience all of the options. I will at some point include Google Chrome to expand the options.
It goes without saying that it is sleek, an eye catcher, very light, solid construction, runs very cool and absolutely quiet. The keyboard is a real delight as is the touch pad and its many options. I would certainly advocate anybody who is a devout Microsoft user to try this MacBook Air with the OS X Lion.
The only negative 'might' be for some...the price.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I own an Asus G53JW-A1. Perfect for gaming, but bulky and heavy. I travel a lot, so I decided to go Mac, the options being Macbook Pro or Air.
While a 15'' Pro would be appealing (because of the extra video card), I don't see any reasons why I should choose the 13'' Pro over the Air.
Advantages:
- 256 SSD. You've never seen "fast" until you've used this machine. 4GB RAM also helps, considering I don't plan on doing any heavy gaming (not that I could anyway :P)
- light. It really is easy to handle. Thin, light, incredible. The charger is also in the same league.
- battery. 5-6 hours of over the wi-fi heavy browsing + downloading (moderate). Doesn't go to 7 as advertised, but still, better then the competition
- beautiful. Can't argue here, it has no match among competitors.
Minuses:
- 4GB of ram, no way of expanding it. It's enough for me, but if you buy it, keep that in mind (max is what you first get)
- you need adapters for anything you need (ethernet, vga, dvi, anything). They don't come cheap. Prepare in advance :)
- 256GB hdd. While fast, it is small. I keep my iTunes library and most of the "heavy" stuff on an external hdd, so no problem. But keep that in mind too.
Overall, very very satisfied. I would highly recommend a Macbook Air to anybody.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
this is my office computer and it is brilliant. it is thin, light, strong (sturdy) and more than fast enough for everything i do that is business-related. the keyboard is fantastic.
i need Windows for a couple of apps and I have that running transparently via virtualization. slick. Windows business apps run very fast, faster than my old 2 GHz Pentium 4 box.
some might find an external CD/DVD drive useful and though I have one I have also used the DVD drive on my iMac to install software on this laptop (sharing wirelessly).
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Slim, powerful, nice display, low weight, nice design.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Such a well made piece of kit.
Great look & feel.
Super-quick solid state memory.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Easily handles daily grind. Does best for frequent travelers but excels in the home and office as well. Runs Windows 7 thru Parallels without a problem. Battery life, keyboard, trackpad are all top notch. Thunderbolt port doubles as a video out. Build quality is best available. Compared to similar quality machines, only a small price premium for the Apple brand. B&H pricing and specials make this a great deal.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Great computer. I actually replaced my 17" Mac Book Pro with this and love it!! It does everything just a well as the Pro
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
Light, fast and long battery life.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
instant on and off, fast and run cool, excellent display.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
best laptop ever owned.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I have the notebook set up with both lion and windows 7. Does great in either system. Cannot beat the the light weight and high capability.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
This revision of macbook air is amazing. Its slim and powerful, a combination of two amazing virtues.
I use it for running virtual machines (other OS like ubuntu, windows), I use it for photoediting with LR, Photoshop. It works like a charm.
The only thing I do not like about it is the fact that it has just 2 usb ports but not a major issue.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I bought this as a replacement for my 17" 2009 MBP. I recently headed back to school and needed something lighter that I could easily travel with. I have not been disappointed. I did have a real concern that this small package would not pack the punch I was accustomed to with my 17" MBP, but I have yet to be left waiting. The SSD allows the Air to boot in almost no time and the apps are very responsive. So far I have been very impressed. I mainly run Office 2010 with Fusion 4, and other non-demanding apps.
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I write from a country far away from America, I bought a MacBook Air by Internet and I received such a great service that will make me come back to buy anything, just any thing better to go to other store different from H&B... No one help me as you did,[@], you were the only one who really helped me a lot... For that Thanks a lot of thanks...Best Regards from COLOMBIA - SOUTH AMERICA
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Comments about Apple 13.3" MacBook Air Notebook Computer:
I've been waiting for so long to have my MacBook Air. It's amazing. I love it.
Hard to go back to another notebook from this experience
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