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Retina Display MacBook Pro Q&A
Update Published November 10, 2016
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What are the "pros and cons" of the 15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro models? Is one right for me?
This Q&A provides "pros and cons" for 15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro models, a "pros and cons" for 13-Inch models also may be of interest.
Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not a 15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro model is the right notebook for you, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of the line to see if your needs are met.
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro)
For those interested in a more detailed evaluation, EveryMac.com also provides an in-depth comparison of the current "Mid-2015" MacBook Pro line.
For those who prefer the highlights, this quick "run down" may be helpful in making a decision:
Pros:
- Beautiful, high-quality, ultra high-resolution display (2880x1800, 220 ppi).
- Relatively thin and lightweight, especially for its display size.
- All models -- the discontinued Late 2012, Early 2013, Late 2013 and Mid-2014 as well as the current Mid-2015 line -- are quite fast, particularly due to flash storage.
- Models with dual graphics processors -- ones with dedicated graphics -- have particularly fast graphics performance (these have all been discontinued).
- Internal storage can be upgraded after purchase, although end-user upgrades are not formally supported.
- Generally excellent battery life.
- Two USB 3.0 ports.
- Two Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 ports and one HDMI port support at least two simultaneous external 3840x2160 displays. Current models with dedicated graphics alternately support a single massive 5120x2160 display.
- SDXC Card reader.
Cons:
- Older applications not updated for the Retina Display can be blurry and scroll performance can be sluggish.
- RAM is soldered in place and cannot be upgraded after purchase at all. Systems can have as much as 16 GB of RAM (and "Late 2013" and later models have 16 GB of RAM by default), but no models can be upgraded beyond 16 GB. Likewise, models that shipped with 8 GB of RAM cannot be upgraded later.
- Internal storage is not intended to be upgraded by an end user.
- Discontinued "Late 2013" and "Mid-2014" models as well as current "Mid-2015" models that are equipped with integrated graphics often have inferior graphics performance compared to earlier models with dedicated graphics that these models replaced.
- Battery is glued in place and effectively impossible to replace without also discarding the top case assembly that includes the trackpad.
- No internal Ethernet or Firewire (adapters are available at additional cost).
- No internal optical drive (external option available).
- New MagSafe 2 power connector requires adapter (MD504LL/A) to use with an LED Cinema Display, Thunderbolt Display, or earlier MagSafe power adapter.
- Expensive.
So, is one right for me?
Essentially, if you need a powerful notebook Mac with a beautiful, ultra high resolution display and care little about legacy support or future repairs or upgrades -- and price is no object -- the 15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro could be the perfect Mac for you.
On the other hand, if you are more price sensitive or physical dimensions are more important than display size/resolution, performance, or additional connectivity, a 13-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro or a MacBook Air likely would be a better choice.
If performance, upgrades, and "legacy" connectivity -- like Gigabit Ethernet and Firewire -- as well as an internal optical drive are important, a traditional "Unibody" MacBook Pro would be better for you. Of course, anyone interested in saving money also would be wise to consider any number of MacBook, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro models on the used market.
15-Inch Retina MacBook Pro Purchase & Sale Options
There are no shortage of places to purchase a 15-Inch Retina Display MacBook Pro. However, buying from a quality company with an extensive track record in the Mac market will provide the best experience and save you money and time, too.
In the US, site sponsor Adorama sells new MacBook Pro models with free shipping. Other World Computing and JemJem sell used and refurb MacBook Pro models at bargain prices with free shipping, as well. On the other hand, if you need to sell a MacBook Pro, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac and GoRoostr will buy your older notebook with an instant quote and prompt payment.
In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells used MacBook Pro models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK. Delivery across Europe also is available starting at just £9.99 for two-day delivery to France and Germany.
In Australia, site sponsor Mac City likewise has a variety of used MacBook Pro models sold at low prices and available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.
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