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15-inch MacBook Pro/1.83GHz

The first Mac laptop to feature an Intel processor -- two processors, actually, thanks to the chip's dual-core architecture -- the MacBook Pro features some significant departures from the PowerBook line. The MacBook Pro features a 4X DVD-burning SuperDrive (as opposed to the 8X SuperDrive in the PowerBook); it lacks an S-Video port and a built-in modem. However, the MacBook Pro's screen is brighter, it boasts a faster bus speed and faster memory, and a new MagSafe Connector for hooking up the laptop to its power supply. Originally announced at 1.67GHz, this laptop's processor was bumped to 1.83GHz when it shipped in February 2006.

 Reviewed Full Review

A worthy successor to the PowerBook G4, the MacBook Pro is particularly attractive if most of the applications you use are available in Universal versions, or are relatively low-power programs running in Rosetta. However, if you rely on programs that won't run in Rosetta or you rely on resource-intensive software, you should delay your purchase until Universal versions of those programs become available.

Pros: Classic design; runs Universal applications quickly; bright screen; integrated iSight camera; comes with Front Row application and remote; innovative MagSafe power connector; improved wireless range.

Cons: Non-native apps can run slowly; optical drive inferior to that of the PowerBook G4; no FireWire 800 port; intermittent processor noise on some systems; screen slightly shorter than the PowerBook's.

Basics

Reviewed Price: $1,999

Processor: 1.83GHz Intel Core Duo

Information about this system on Apple's website

Lab Tests

Speedmark 4.5 Score152
Cinema 4D XL 9.5.211:19
iMovie 6.0.11:23
iTunes 6.0.31:31
Photoshop CS 22:49
Compressor
Unreal Tournament 200448.4fps
Tested ConfigurationMac OS X 10.4.5, 1GB of RAM

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