Apple® - MacBook Pro with Retina display - 13.3" Display - 8GB Memory - 256GB Flash Storage - Silver

So, my journey to finding this computer was a long one. Needless to say, for the first time in quite awhile, I am truly satisfied with a tech purchase, something that I see lasting for at least a few years. My primary need for a device stemmed from media consumption: news websites, social media, Netflix, etc. I started a few years ago with a Chromebook that just wasn't enough (lacked the offline experience I wanted), then sold it. Tried a few different Android tablets with add-on keyboards, but it just didn't do it for me. I had always been a Windows-guy, and though I found the Apple products appealing (multiple iPads, iPhones, iPods in my purchase history...), I had trouble justifying a purchase that was easily close to double what I'd pay for a Windows equivalent. But--equivalent is not what I got. There is no Windows PC that matches the experience of running a Macbook Pro...and anything that comes close is priced just as high (or higher) than Apple's product. My review involves the following elements: - Tactile experience - Visual experience - Computer performance - Physical Aesthetics - OS Experience TACTILE EXPERIENCE: On a Macbook, the touchpad and keyboard experience cannot be matched, save for maybe e some Logitech products. Dell and Lenovo are also coming around--but the best "hands on" experience is still Apple. VISUAL EXPERIENCE: Retina displays are very good. BUT...they are not by any stretch the best thing you can pack into a 13" screen. I spend most of my time with the display scaled to show a simulated 1680x1050 resolution, which is the "smallest" I can make the text and images (or, conversely, the "largest" I can make the screen). There are days when I drop the resolution down to the native suggested resolution, especially if all I'm doing is watching Netflix. But make no mistake: the display is crisp, clear and gorgeous. Performance in sunlight isn't the best, but no glossy screen will perform well in those situations. COMPUTER PERFORMANCE: Most of the time I spent researching this purchase was concentrated on whether or not I should upgrade the RAM and Hard Drive. I went with 8GB RAM and the 256GB SSD, and have been nothing but pleased with the decision. In the past, I purchased a Macbook Air with 4GB of RAM and the experience left me wanting a bit better performance, so I ended up returning that computer. The best way it can be explained is this: because Apple controls every aspect of the manufacturing process for their products, the hardware has been optimized to use the processor and RAM in an efficient way that outperforms similar specs with Windows-based machines. In that sense, 4GB RAM should have been just fine. Fortunately, I got this on sale so was able to maximize the upgrade versus additional cost. I would suggest "future proofing" yourself with at least a bit more RAM, but keep in mind that Macbook Pro's can always be upgraded at a later date (not so much for the Macbook Air's). PHYSICAL AESTHETICS: This is a bigger deal to me than it should be. The machine itself weighs in at just under 3.5 pounds, and considering the body is 100% aluminum (NOT PLASTIC), there is an obvious premium feel to the unit. I carry it and my work computer with me every day, and between the two don't feel it's too much weight. If you're stuck between this and a Macbook Air, it's a no brainer to me to go with the Pro...it is more money, but barely adds any weight, gives you upgradability in the future, and if I'm being honest, is a much cleaner design...I don't care much for the "wedge" look of some ultrabooks. It's a beautiful, simple, elegant design that I want to be seen carrying. That's important to me. OS EXPERIENCE: Real quick here...I know this review is for the machine, not the OS, but they go hand-in-hand. As a life-long Windows user, I've had no difficulty adjusting to a different OS. Also...OS X Yosemite is awesome, especially paired with an iPhone running iOS 8.1. Anyway, there are a few Windows shortcut keys that I still find myself using, but beyond that, I'm loving what Apple has put together. If you're unsure...spend some time at an Apple store or at Best Buy playing around with it...it is a fun experience.

The first impression you get when handling the MacBook Pro is that of precision, durability, and sheer craftsmanship. It's almost like Apple started with a solid block of aluminum, then machined away everything that didn't look like a MacBook. I've never handled a laptop that felt anywhere near as well made as this thing is, and believe me, I shopped around. I first settled on a Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro running Windows 8. I was a wonderful machine, but for the money I'd spent, it just didn't seem solid as the MackBook Air that I'd handled at the store. I could feel the body flex ever so slightly whenI picked it up. The lid felt like I could fold it like a piece of paper. And if I reached around the back while the machine was open and pressed a finger against the lid, I got the "rainbow" distortion on the display at the spot my finger was pressed on the other side. I know thin and light is de rigueur these days, but I'll still gladly take on extra bulk and weight if it gives me the sense that my machine is built to last. So after a week of not being 100 percent satisfied, I finally took the Lenovo back to Best Buy, prepared to buy the 256GB Air. But when I saw the Air side by side with the Pro, I was struck by the much better display on the Pro. Don't get me wrong, the Air has a beautiful display, but the Pro has Apple's Retina Display, which is absolutely phenomenal. Between the display and the fact that Best Buy doesn't sell the Air with 8GB of RAM, I started taking a closer look at the Pro, which until then hadn't been on my radar at all. It was an additional $300 for the 256GB Pro, but when making an investment like this, my thinking is to get the best that you can buy. I've only had the Pro for a day so far, so between that and that fact this is my first experience with Mac, I'm not really in a position to delve too deeply into matters of performance. My initial impression, though, is that everything has been perfectly designed to be as intuitive as possible. Setup and syncing with my iPod are honestly the two biggest things I've done with it so far, and both went seamlessly. And needless to say, this thing feels like it could stop a bullet. I'm still kind of cringing at the money I dropped on this thing, but I honestly think that my money has been well spent. What's more, when I found the machine online at B&H Photo for a hundred dollars less, Best Buy credited that amount back to me via their "price match" guarantee.

My parents and I have been using, and unfortunately repurchasing (every three to four years) Windows-based computers since I was a kid. Now that I'm a student, I was seeking a computer that would last through undergrad, med school, and beyond. My brother has had a MacBook Pro for ten years and it runs like its new. So I decided to make the switch betting my money on this Mac. I can't express how much more fluid and simple OS X is compared to Windows. At first it was like learning a new language, but after one day I found it's more user-friendly than Windows. So for anyone who's nervous to switch, DONT BE! Apple products are designed to make things simpler for the consumer. The notebook is physically superior in terms of craftsmanship compared to any other brand I've had. It makes NO sound. I play games that are highly demanding of the graphics hardware, and the Intel-based graphics card displays the 3D games beautifully, rendering the games at frame rates that shocked me while remaining silent and cool to the touch. No over heating, no noise. All of the software runs beautifully. Multitasking between email and Internet webpages is actually enjoyable because I'm so used to the lagging of Windows and OS X runs with ZERO lag. The 13-inch screen is fine for me. I do watch movies on it, and yes I was worried about the screen size for this purpose, but don't fret, the fantastic Retina display makes up for size. I suggest the notebook to ANYONE. Basic users may want to look into the MacBook Air as they are more practical for everyday use, but for students, mid-level gamers (YES, GAMERS), small-business owners, and any other people who use their computers for more than just email and Internet, look no further than the MacBook Pro. It's light, quiet, durable and worth every penny. If you have an iPhone, you'll love this even more. You can text other iPhone users and answer calls directly from your Mac. How awesome is that? To be honest, I have less headaches since switching to Mac from Windows, and I'm never going back. This 16-year Windows user is having less of a struggle learning how to use a Mac compared to just simply using a PC. To sum it up, if you want a computer that works like-new for a long time, you should look into this notebook. And windows users, don't be nervous, be happy and get a Mac.

I was raised with a PC is my hands (Late 30`s) I started with MS DOS, then the first iteration of windows. Over the years, I have never used a mac. The only apple product I ever had was an iphone in 2010. I am coming from an ultrabook . It served me ok for the last 3 years. Ultrabooks are fast, but mine had a major keyboard design issue.( would register only 2/3 of letters typed). The battery on most PC laptop dies after 2 years. I was left with a laptop with no battery, a horrible keyboard, and my trackpad starting to act up . Lets not forget the most important part: the horrible windows 8.1 experience. I am working on a major project and my faith for windows product got weaker than my need for a stable, easy, reliable tool. I decided for the first time to try a mac. As many have said, it is a difficult decision when you are so familiar with an OS and its tricks to start again from scratch. Here are my first impressions: The mac offers unparalleled built quality. The retina display is indeed very sharp. The weight is comparable to an ultrabook (the 15" is too heavy for my taste). Nothing surprising here, we all know apple makes quality product. I am pleasantly surprised by the Yosemite OS. It is fairly intuitive, there is no lag. And for those in my situation, you will realize, that it`s not that different than a PC. The main difference is functionnality , everything has been designed with intelligence (not like 8.1) A couple times I had to look for help or tutorials online and there are resources everywhere. I am still unsure about using iWorks suite VS office, but it sure is intuitive as well. I will have to spend more time working with it. No virus, no pop ups, no crash, no million plug ins... Sorry to say but apple knows how to design simple tools, efficient, stable. I would not hesitate to recommend switching to a mac if you are mostly looking for productivity tools/multimedia. I still have a PC when I need to do specific tasks. In summary: the macbook pro retina 8/256 is a great machine. The Apple OS is a pleasant surprise.

THE GOOD: fast, sturdy, grt for grad school (sure for undergrad too). (1) extremely fast for day-to-day tasks like emails, surf, lite photo edits & web designs, writing papers & spreadsheets etc . (2) Adequate for mid-level programing & CAD .(3) Best display on the market (acd to me) THE AVERAGE: got over heated a bit, even just w watching blu-ray. heavy programing or photo processing sometimes got to 240F even w the fan. ->dragged computing power. *** I dont play videogames , so cant say*** THE BAD: Battery DOESNT last 8-9h, even only for watching movies, lite writing (I checked Act Monitor to ensure nothing unnecessary in teh background) THE HORRIBLES: Been w Bestbuy ~ 10 yrs & had the worst experience ever w customer service. I bought GeeksQuad + Accidental plan (~$360/ 2yrs) was told that would get tech support w setting up. The Apple tech on site called himself Apple Paul told me ANYTHING will cost at least $100 . Granted, I didnt need much but I only had few minor questions & couldnt even get them answered. Few days later , I asked about heat issues & was directed to Apple Store???? They wouldnt price match for bhphoto website , which was listed on BB pricematch, for the reason that the brand new Mid 2014 model on there was older than BB (all specs matched)? I bought this argument 'till went home to find out both listed same mf#. I understand the BB protection plan is more comprehensive bc it helps w accidental damages, but what exactly "tech support" am I gonna get fr GeekSquad? It doesnt matter now since I still have 1yr of Apple Care, but once that's over, if all Geeksquad does is making me go to Apple store????

I'm here to give a very real review for those switching from a PC to a Mac who do REAL processing. What I'm referring to is very large photo, video files and the ability to multitask. I will admit that my switch to a Mac from a PC is a welcome experience and I should have done so a long time ago. This review is for this model which is WAY under powered. If you're using this Mac for BASIC computing and browsing then this is a Rock Star! If you are an advanced user please consider upgrading and spending MUCH more. First, as a photographer I frequently download and edit very large RAW files and sometimes video. My HP PC was much faster than this Mac at half the price; the only advantage is the Retna display which is much more accurate for what I do. There are some functions that I am very impressed with and some that I'm very disappointed with - using a Mac is not necessary that much easier, more intuitive yes. The Mac also will not recognize many of your video files, you'll need to download a converter. The problem here is that the converters are from 3rd parties which affects performance - i.e. it will open in a full screen all the time instead of a smaller screen. Minor irritant, I know, but for those of us who are used to getting things our way it's important. The good - there is nothing that can compare to the retna display and for photography or video that's critical. It's very easy to use outside of the minor irritants. Overall a great computer, however, if you're a power user you'll have to upgrade. I've had mine for a year and I'm looking at the desktop version with more muscle. Hope this helps.

At first I fell in love with the MacBook Air 13". I loved its weight and tapered design. It seemed like it was perfect for me and my needs but after the first couple of hours of staring at the screen on the Air I started to get the worst headache. I had a lot of trouble differentiating between texts and background. So....long story short: The screen is really a downgrade. Holding my iPhone 5 at the same distance was easier to read. Also all of the text is very small by default. So I exchanged it for The MacBook Pro Retina. I was really sad to see the Air go, really. It was a tough decision especially because I, at this current part of my life, have no need for all the power that the Pro provides but at least I will have my options open in the future, should they change. I noticed that the MBPr gets a tad bit warmer underneath than the MBA, but it has just been something that I have been keeping an eye on. It really is the perfect computer. The screen is gorgeous, and I really like the black trim around the screen rather than the light grey, seems to make it easier to focus. Sound quality is great, for a laptop of course. It's really not all that more heavier than the Air either. It's a beautiful little piece of machinery and I'm not going to lie...I think I've become a little obsessed.

When my seven year old Windows machine started acting sketchy (an HP running Vista that performed flawlessly until recently), I decided that it was time to consider making the move to Apple. After finally having a smartphone for the past year (yeah, I know, I'm old and cheap), and loving the quality of it, I decided now was the time to make the change. Yes, the iPhone 5s convinced me to try a MacBook Pro...that and my wife also has an iPhone and and iPad, so the continuity of similar platforms was appealing. Was the change easy? Absolutely. Were some things a little difficult to figure out? Yeah, but that is what Google is best at. This machine is fast, light, cool running and a real pleasure to use. I have given up my cordless mouse for the great track pad Apple has developed. I have not missed the optical drive...yet. The SSHD is great. The fast boot time is wonderful. I did have some reservations about downsizing from a 15 inch screen to a 13, but it has not been an issue. I may never give another dollar to Microsoft. I know, I sound like an Apple fanboy, but at 57 years of age I'm not that passionate about anything. I would make this change again in a heartbeat.