Thanks to the 9400M GPU -- shared with the Pro 13-inchers -- the MacBook can hold its own as a general gaming machine, as long as you keep your expectations modest and resolutions low.
In our rigorous video-playback battery-drain test, the MacBook's removable battery ran for 3 hours and 30 minutes, although you can expect longer life with more forgiving tasks, such as Web browsing and general office use. While the Pro line now has batteries that are claimed to offer longer life, they're also non-removable. It'd be good to have boosted battery life, but being able to swap out batteries is a good consolation prize for those who choose the MacBook.
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
(Shorter bars indicate better performance)
(Longer bars indicate better performance)
Conclusion
Depending on your specific needs, for around £750, you're getting a real bargain with the last Apple MacBook. You can either approach the purchase as 'for £150 more I can get a MacBook Pro' or 'I can get something nearly as good as a MacBook Pro and save £150'. The latter perspective, however, requires you to be willing to skip some of the Pro-level features.
Additional editing by Charles Kloet
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User reviews2
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Adzy 15 November 2010
Good: Can't fault it
Bad: Trackpad can be tedious
Comment: What an incredible computer. It works extremely well and just does absolutely everything I want it to.
I upgraded the RAM from my original 2GB to the max 4GB, and the speed is unreal. I might only have the 2.00GHz Processor but it still is able to handle iMovie, Photoshop, iPhoto, Firefox, Adium and many more open at the same time!
jhendriksz 21 April 2010
Good: Design, operating system, ease of use
Bad: only 2 USB ports
Comment: After wrestling with the dilemma of purchasing either a white Macbook or the lower-spec 13-inch Macbook Pro after being a PC user for nearly 6 years (got so sick of Microsoft!), I decided to purchase the Macbook.
The Macbook does not compromise on style, and while the design may not be as sleek as the Pros, it delivers exactly the same product at a better price. OS X Snow Leopard is an ease to use, I have had no issues whatsover with it and love the fact that I have a computer now that just works.
If you don't need the Pros' high-end specs and just want a good, solid personal use laptop I highly recommend this!
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