As well as announcing their new 15 inch Retina MacBook Pro last week, Apple also updated its existing MacBook Pro range with new processors, more memory, and improved graphics.
We now get to find out how well the new 13 inch MacBook Pro stacks up against the previous model, and it also gets compared against Apple’s new 2012 MacBook Air range.
The latest MacBook Pros offer a nice increase in performance over the previous MacBook Pros. Both the Core i5 and the Core i7 Mid 2012 13-inch MacBook Pros are over 10% faster than the equivalent Late 2011 13-inch MacBook Pros. Some of the increase is from higher processor speeds, while some of the increase is from the improved Ivy Bridge processor architecture.
Performance Improvements
The new 13-inch MacBook Pro models have been equipped with Intel’s latest Ivy Bridge processors, which not only offer higher clock speeds but also bring significant architectural improvements. The Ivy Bridge architecture is known for its enhanced efficiency and better integrated graphics performance. This means that users can expect smoother multitasking, faster application launches, and improved overall responsiveness.
Additionally, the new MacBook Pros come with faster RAM, which further boosts performance. The base model now starts with 8GB of RAM, compared to the 4GB in the previous generation. This upgrade is particularly beneficial for power users who run memory-intensive applications such as video editing software, virtual machines, or large databases.
Graphics and Display
Another area where the new 13-inch MacBook Pro shines is in its graphics capabilities. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 offers a noticeable improvement over the previous Intel HD Graphics 3000. This upgrade translates to better performance in graphic-intensive tasks such as photo and video editing, as well as a smoother experience in casual gaming.
The display on the new 13-inch MacBook Pro remains one of its standout features. While it doesn’t have the Retina display of its 15-inch sibling, it still offers excellent color accuracy and brightness. The high-resolution screen is perfect for professionals who need to work on detailed visual projects or for anyone who enjoys watching high-definition content.
Have a look at the benchmarks below, which show the top-end 2012 13 inch MacBook Pro with an Intel Core i7-3520M 2.9GHz processor. The benchmarks also show the new entry-level 13 inch MacBook Pro.
You can find out more details on how Apple’s new 2012 MacBook Pro’s and MacBook Airs compare to the previous models from last year over at Primate Labs.
Battery Life and Portability
One of the key considerations for any laptop is battery life, and the new 13-inch MacBook Pro does not disappoint. Thanks to the efficiency improvements brought by the Ivy Bridge processors, users can expect longer battery life compared to the previous generation. This makes the new MacBook Pro an excellent choice for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable laptop for on-the-go use.
Portability is another strong suit of the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Weighing in at just over 3.5 pounds, it is light enough to carry around without feeling cumbersome. The slim profile also makes it easy to slip into a backpack or briefcase, making it a versatile option for both work and play.
The new 13-inch MacBook Pro offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor. With faster processors, improved graphics, more memory, and better battery life, it is a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a new laptop. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a casual user, the new MacBook Pro has something to offer.
Source MacRumors
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