Apple only recently launched the new MacBook Air, and already the Chinese cloners have started to produce copies of it like this one which even comes with its own fake Apple logo.
The fake MacBook Air picture below is made by a company called E-Stary from China, and it features an 11.6 inch LCD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768, a 160GB hard drive and 1GB of RAM.
As you can see from the photo, the MacBook Air clone looks quite a bit thicker than the original MacBook Air, and it is available in China for $260. Even at that price, I think I would rather stick to the real thing.
Comparing the Clone to the Original
When comparing the clone to the original MacBook Air, several differences become apparent beyond just the thickness. The original MacBook Air is renowned for its sleek design, lightweight build, and high-quality materials. It features a unibody aluminum construction, which not only makes it durable but also gives it a premium feel. In contrast, the clone, while mimicking the design, often uses cheaper materials that can affect both the durability and the overall user experience.
Performance-wise, the original MacBook Air is equipped with advanced hardware, including faster processors, more RAM options, and better storage solutions like SSDs. The clone, with its 160GB hard drive and 1GB of RAM, falls short in this department. Users might experience slower performance, especially when running multiple applications or handling more demanding tasks.
The Risks of Using Cloned Devices
Using cloned devices like this fake MacBook Air comes with several risks. Firstly, there is the issue of reliability. Cloned devices often do not go through the same rigorous testing and quality control as the originals, which can lead to hardware failures and a shorter lifespan. Additionally, the software on these devices can be problematic. They might come with pirated versions of operating systems, which can be unstable and lack the necessary updates and security patches.
Another significant risk is the lack of customer support and warranty. When purchasing an original MacBook Air, users have access to Apple’s customer service and warranty programs, which can be invaluable if something goes wrong. With a cloned device, there is no such support, leaving users to deal with any issues on their own.
Moreover, there are legal implications to consider. Cloned devices infringe on intellectual property rights, and purchasing or using them can inadvertently support illegal activities. It’s essential to be aware of these factors and make informed decisions when considering such products.
Why the Real MacBook Air is Worth the Investment
Despite the higher price tag, the real MacBook Air offers several advantages that make it worth the investment. The build quality, performance, and reliability are unmatched by clones. Additionally, the MacBook Air comes with macOS, which is optimized for the hardware, providing a seamless and efficient user experience.
Apple’s ecosystem is another significant benefit. The MacBook Air integrates smoothly with other Apple products, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, allowing for features like Handoff, Continuity, and iCloud synchronization. These features enhance productivity and convenience, making the overall experience more cohesive and enjoyable.
In conclusion, while the cloned MacBook Air from E-Stary might be tempting due to its lower price, the numerous drawbacks and risks associated with it make the original MacBook Air a far superior choice. Investing in the real thing ensures a high-quality, reliable device that offers excellent performance and support, ultimately providing better value for money.
via Cult of Mac
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