What are the "pros and cons" of the "Unibody" MacBook? Is it right for my needs?

Please note that the "Late 2008/Unibody" MacBook models have been discontinued. The "Unibody" MacBook was replaced by the "Mid-2009" 13-Inch MacBook Pro on June 8, 2009.

Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not the "Unibody" Aluminum MacBook is the right notebook for you, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of the series to see if your needs are met.

This "run down" may be helpful in making a decision:

Pros:

• Sleek, durable, lightweight industrial design.
• Widescreen LED-backlit display.
• Backlit keyboard (except the entry-level MacBook "Core 2 Duo" 2.0 13" (Unibody)).
• Improved graphics compared to earlier MacBook models.
• Quick and easy to upgrade the RAM and hard drive.
• Innovative multi-touch trackpad.
• Relatively inexpensive.

Cons:

• Glossy display casts a glare in direct lighting.
• Integrated graphics "borrow" system RAM and are substantially slower than dedicated graphics.
• No Firewire or expansion slots.
• Mini DisplayPort requires adapters to use with existing technologies.

Basically, if you are looking for a relatively inexpensive and powerful notebook Mac, then a "Unibody" MacBook would be an excellent choice.

If performance (particularly 3D graphics performance), screen size, or expansion are high priorities, the MacBook Pro might be a better option. If compatibility with older applications or hardware (PC cards) is critical, a PowerBook G4 would be a wise choice. Site sponsor PowerMax sells all of these systems.