The 2015 MacBook Air looks and "feels" like a laptop from the future. It is ultraportable and it's Core M Processors are extremely advanced, too. Plus, there is the lone USB Type-C port that is surely unlike any existing connectivity ports there is.
Not that it's a bad thing. After all, Apple has been known for championing innovative design and engineering systems in the field of technology. Apple did it again with the new MacBook, which according to Wired.com is an "exciting harbinger to a bright future."
With seamless streaming and wireless connectivity options, transferring of files from one device to the 2015 MacBook Air would be effortless. The USB Type-C is versatile, too. It is capable, that it can transfer data at 5Gbps. It supports video out and it can charge and be charged to whatever it is hooked up to. The latter means that non-Apple accessory manufacturers and even devices will be embracing this standard in the future.
But even with the availability of these handy solutions, the MacBook 2015 has flaws and those glitches are the reasons that could make the two veteran MacBooks, the 13-inch MacBook Air and the 13-inch MacBook Pro, outperform the 2015 MacBook Air.
The new MacBook's processor is not as fast as the two MacBook models. When the Octa Core M processors were tested on Windows rigs, it registered a performance speed that is nearly three-quarters the performance of a typical fifth-generation Core. This, according to Tech Radar, is not a bad thing. It just doesn't ace benchmarks.
The new MacBook's HD 5300 graphics chip could also be questionably slower considering that among the integrated graphic solutions shipped with current processors it is one of the slowest.
And there are the port issues, of course. As of now using the new MacBook will prove to be challenging, if not time consuming, especially with any third-party peripherals. Unlike with the two MacBook models that offer at least two USB 3.0 ports, a video output, and an independent charging jack.
Lastly, the 2015 MacBook Air won't last longer than the 13-inch Air and the 13-inch Air Pro with Retina as it is quoted to endure nine hours of use, while the other two can last up to 12 hours and 10 hours respectively. The new MacBook is easier to pack, though.
Which MacBook should you buy or retain then?
Among the three, Digital Trends recommends the MacBook Pro with Retina display. The Pro comes with faster base processors, better display, larger internal storage space options and the latest version features force-click touchpad and Intel HD integrated graphics.
The Air's OS X and maximum battery life are also valid reasons to go for, especially if you don't care about quality screen and the extra $300.
Apple is yet to define which target market it is really catering to with the new MacBook. For Digital Trends this is not hard to figure out as many will buy this newest MacBook for design and portability above all else.
From a smart purchaser's point of view, that isn't the most practical choice.
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