We recently saw what was inside the new Apple iMac, and now the team over at iFixit has taken apart the new Retina MacBook 2017. This teardown provides a detailed look at the internal components and design choices Apple has made with this latest iteration of their popular laptop.
The Retina MacBook 2017 comes with some minor updates over the previous model, but the overall design of the device has not changed significantly. This consistency in design is typical of Apple’s approach, focusing on refining internal components rather than making drastic changes to the exterior.
Technical Specifications and Features
In the teardown, the device taken apart features a 12-inch display with a 2304 x 1440 pixel resolution, which offers sharp and vibrant visuals. The laptop is powered by a 1.2GHz dual-core Intel Core m3 processor, which is designed to balance performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, it comes with 8GB of RAM, providing sufficient memory for multitasking and running various applications smoothly.
One of the standout features of the Retina MacBook 2017 is its lightweight and slim design, making it highly portable and convenient for users who are always on the go. The laptop also includes a USB-C port, which serves multiple functions such as charging, data transfer, and video output. This port’s versatility is a significant advantage, although it may require users to invest in adapters for connecting older peripherals.
Repairability and iFixit Score
iFixit scores their devices on their repair index on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is very hard to repair and 10 is very easy to repair. Apple hardware usually scores low on the iFixit repair index, and the new Retina MacBook 2017 is no exception. It only scores 1 out of 10, which means it is very hard to repair.
Several factors contribute to this low repairability score. Firstly, the laptop’s components are tightly packed, making it challenging to access and replace individual parts. The use of proprietary screws and adhesive further complicates the disassembly process. For instance, the battery is glued in place, which makes it difficult to replace without specialized tools and expertise.
Moreover, the Retina MacBook 2017’s RAM and storage are soldered onto the motherboard, meaning they cannot be upgraded or replaced by the user. This design choice limits the laptop’s longevity and flexibility, as users cannot enhance its performance or storage capacity over time.
Despite these repairability challenges, the Retina MacBook 2017 remains a popular choice for many users due to its sleek design, high-resolution display, and efficient performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of the difficulties they may face if they need to repair or upgrade the device in the future.
In conclusion, while the Retina MacBook 2017 offers several appealing features and improvements over its predecessor, its low repairability score is a significant drawback. Users who prioritize ease of repair and upgradability may need to consider other options or be prepared to rely on professional repair services if issues arise. For more detailed information on the teardown process and the internal components of the Retina MacBook 2017, you can visit the source at iFixit.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
