MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Comparison of Top Features
Guest Post by Amanda : Are you in the market for a new laptop, or looking to give a great Christmas gift? Apple boasts a line of powerful laptops with the revamped MacBook Air as a recent addition in their product line.
The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro have hardware, software, and an OS system that provides high performance and easy usability. However, it may be difficult to distinguish between the two MacBooks. The following chart provides a comparison between the two, helping you determine which is best for you.
Comparing the Two : MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro
|
MacBook Air |
MacBook Pro |
Verdict |
|
| Price | From $999 | From $1199 | AIR – Based on price alone, the MacBook Air is relatively cheaper. |
| Capability | The MacBook Air has either a 2GB or 4GB memory, and is capable of up to 256GB flash storage.
|
The MacBook Pro possesses either 4 GB or 8 GB memory, and has a range of different hard drive and solid-state drive sizes. | PRO – MacBook Pros are for more dedicated users, and thus have higher capabilities and memory storage. |
| Battery Life | 5 to 7 hours | 7 hours | BOTH – Generally, the MacBook Pro possesses a longer battery life. However, the recent 13-inch MacBook Air has a comparable battery, making it a tie between the two. |
| Features | Because of the smaller size, the MacBook Air lacks a number of compatibility ports, such as a SD card slot or a SuperDrive. However, the Air has a higher resolution display at a comparably lower price. | The MacBook Pro boasts a number of features not available with Airs, such as the SDXC card slot and a SuperDrive. In addition, the MacBook Pro possesses a number of high performance features, including a HD camera. | PRO – As a powerhouse, the MacBook Pro provides greater advantages. |
| Portability | The MacBook Air possesses a sleek, tapered design, ranging from .11 inches to .68 inches. In addition, it weighs about 2 pounds, making the Air one of the lightest laptops around. | The MacBook Pro weighs about 4.5 pounds, and is available in three different screen sizes, with the largest at 17 inches. | AIR – Given its specifications, the MacBook Air is clearly designed with portability in mind. |
Other Factors to Consider while Buying
Still confused as to which MacBook would be best for you? It may be easier to determine which MacBook to choose, based on your personality and occupation. Taking into account your preferences and your requirements in a laptop can help you choose a MacBook that suits your lifestyle.
1. The Student:
Generally, students look at price first when choosing a laptop. However, the choice of which MacBook will depend on the requirements of the students. For everyday users simply looking for a laptop, the MacBook Air is relatively cheaper and a good way to go. However, for students that are in computer science or production majors, the MacBook Pro is a better choice.
2. The Programmer:
Programmers, by their very profession, are constantly using computers and have more requirements than the average user. In short, they require a laptop that offers high performance and reliability. For programmers, the MacBook Pro is a better choice as it provides a number of extras and features not available with the Air.
3. The Traveler:
Travelers look for a laptop that possesses a long battery and is relatively portable. Given its small size and light weight, the MacBook Air is a popular choice for individuals on the go. Though the Air possesses a shorter battery life than the Pro, the 5 hour battery life provides enough time for individuals without a plug.
4. The Video Professional:
The MacBook Pro, particularly the 17-inch version, has been seen as a mobile powerhouse. High quality processors and advanced graphics allow video professionals and editors to tackle video projects with ease.
5. The High Roller:
Money not an issue? For individuals that are simply looking for the best quality laptop, the MacBook Pro is one of the best choices available. The 17-inch MacBook Pro in particular possesses a wide range of features and benefits, and one of the most advanced operating systems in the market.
Choosing between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro is a tough decision. However, by keeping requirements and the amount of usage in mind, the user can determine whether they prefer the portability and flexibility of the MacBook Air, or the computing powerhouse of the MacBook Pro.
About Author : Amanda DiSilvestro is a writer on topics ranging from social media to credit card processing. She writes for an online resource that gives advice on topics including background checks to small businesses and entrepreneurs for the leading business directory Business.com.
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