Apple MacBook 13" - Expert Reviews

Award: Editor's Choice!

Review summary: The MacBook benefits from a number of under-the-hood improvements.

Pros: Santa Rosa architecture, faster system bus, updated graphics chip, can handle 4GB of RAM, built-in 802.11n AirPort Extreme, excellent battery life

Cons: Integrated graphics performance still limits gaming use, no SuperDrive on £699 model, Apple still charges an extra £70 just for the black case

Verdict: If you bought a Mac laptop recently, this latest MacBook upgrade will cause no reason for despair. However, if you've been awaiting the optimal time to refresh an iBook or even an older PowerBook G4, then that time is now. You'll get plenty of value ...

Pros: Upgraded CPU for the same price ; same great design ; Leopard operating system

Cons: Still no Express card or SD card slots ; only more expensive models are available in black

Verdict: Apple has been content to issue minor periodic hardware updates to the 13-inch MacBook, but the modest performance gains and new Leopard OS keep it in our top tier of laptop recommendations.

Review summary: If you bought a Mac laptop recently, this latest MacBook upgrade will cause no reason for despair. However, if you've been awaiting the most optimal time to refresh an iBook or even an older PowerBook G4, this might be it.

Pros: Santa Rosa architecture ; faster system bus ; updated graphics chip ; can handle 4GB of RAM ; built-in 802.11n AirPort Extreme ; excellent battery life

Cons: Integrated graphics performance limits gaming use

Verdict: Let's start with speed: there's a modest difference if you just look at the numbers. The new high- and mid-range models now clock 2.2GHz, which slightly tops the previous generation's 2.16GHz speed. The low-end build is still 2GHz

Review summary: Editor's note: While this is not a hands-on review of this specific model, it is based on our analysis of the system specs and components, as well as rated reviews of similar products. What it is:This most recent upgrade of the Apple MacBook line ...

Pros: Upgraded CPU for the same price ; same great design ; Leopard operating system

Cons: Still no Express card or SD card slots ; only more expensive models are available in black

Verdict: Apple has been content to issue minor periodic hardware updates to the 13-inch MacBook, but the modest performance gains and new Leopard OS keep it in our top tier of laptop recommendations.

Review summary: Is this black MacBook Apple's best laptop yet?

Pros: Great suite of free iLife programs; Lovely, no-frills design; Generally good, smooth performance

Cons: Lack of games; 512MB memory a bit stingy; Why is black at such a premium

Verdict: An incredibly competent, well-thought-out laptop at a reasonable price.