Does the Macbook Air make a good "Main" Computer?

I was thinking of selling my Mid-2010 model 17" Macbook Pro in favor of one of the new Macbook Air's rumored (and likely) to be coming out. However, I use my current Macbook Pro as my "Main" computer...schoolwork, surfing the web, watching YouTube videos, facebook, email, and the occasional games like N.O.V.A. 2 and I also have a lot of iTunes songs, Movies, and Apps on there. ...so my question is for those with a current Macbook Air, does it make a good "Main" Computer for what I would intend to use it for? Or should I just stick with my Macbook Pro? (BTW I have only used about 196GB out of my 500GB Harddrive)

Sticky question. What does "a lot" of music and movies mean?
Given how much HD you've used up, you could certainly get a 13" MBA and have plenty of HD left over; and I think the latest models, especially if you get as much RAM as you can and such, should be more than powerful enough to do all you want to do and be your primary computer. Of course, you should go to a store and be sure you're okay with less screen real estate to watch those movies and play those games. It could be a bit of a shock to go from that 17" wide to a more modest 13".
I think the real question you need to ask yourself is less a matter of what you're doing now than what you plan on doing in the future. If there is really nothing you need a 17" 500g Pro for, if you're not going to go into computer graphics, movie making or any of those professions where such a machine is almost essential, then by all means, go MBA. Likewise if you aim to do more traveling. I think you'll find the weight difference alone between the two machines worth the switch, not to mention the beauty of SSD which, currently, you can't get on Pros without paying a lot.

Similar Messages

  • Why does my Macbook Air make a single buzz/beep?

    Why does my Macbook Air make a single buzz/beep every time I open it or turn it on? It doesn't happen after again after the initial buzz. If I open it after it has been sleeping, it starts up and then there is a buzz. This has only happened since I downloaded iOS Maverick.

    Beeps on startup:
    1 beep = no RAM installed
    2 beeps = incompatible RAM types
    3 beeps = no good banks
    4 beeps = no good boot images.
    5 beeps = processor is not usable
    http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2538

  • Does the MacBook Air 2012 supports SDXC Cards?

    Does the MacBook Air 2012 supports SDXC Cards?
    Thx

    Hi! How are you? The reason why I'm here is to find out more about SDXC support/compatibility info on the macbook air 2012 and how to fix this nagging issue if it's fixable.
    I had just bought a Sandisk extreme pro 64GB rated at 95mb/s for my Nikon DSLR. Unfortunately, MBA struggles to detect or mount my card, after a few sweats, it would mount, but then very slow to process and preview the images as "Thumbnail preview". Then, after a few more sweats, you can scroll through the thumbnails smoothly.
    Streaming HD videos straight from the SD Slot is butcher chopping the beef. Video lags, stutters, chops, in otherwords, USELESS and a pain in the neck. So you just want to copy all the files to your macbook, and play from there. Copying files from SDXC to my macbook takes forever; writing is also another issue that take much more than forever!
    I have a top of the line macbook air 2012 (i7, 8GB, 512) and I always thought it's a versatile reliable computer but now I'm very disappointed. On the other hand, doing the same things on my macbook pro 2010 is seamless. I also tested on my windows 8 desktop to be flawless as well.
    Therefore, the memory card is not the problem. It's macbook air's sd slot that's a failure. I never thought spending $2,199 for a super computer would make me stress like this. In addition, the magsafe 2 is another failure in design. It always disconnects just by moving my macbook air from one spot of the table to another. Having it charged while on my lap gets on my nerves when it keeps getting disconnected! I hate Apple for doing this. If only there was a Windows notebook that surpasses Apple's design, I would never EVER buy Apple products EVER again.

  • I bought an MacBook Air 13 from Dubai last month. However I see smudge lines on the screen of the laptop which are prominent if the screen is black. Does the macbook air have international warranty ? Since I am in India right now. Can I get it fixed here

    I bought an MacBook Air 13 from Dubai last month. However I see smudge lines on the screen of the laptop which are prominent if the screen is black. Does the macbook air have international warranty ? Since I am in India right now. Can I get it fixed here ?
    -Ankit

    I don't know what service options are available in India but if this helps I do know that once you purchase your Apple product the warranty is valid anywhere in the world.

  • Does the macbook air need the screen protection film? thx

    does the macbook air need the screen protection film? thx

    No, dont dare do that, it messes the screen up and can easily damage it.
    forget that idea PERIOD

  • Why does the macbook air screen go blank in different colours intermittently?

    why does the macbook air screen go blank in different colours intermittently?

    This happens in all kinds of usage ... when typing, when browsing, when using the mouse to point and click, etc.?

  • Does the macbook air come with a charger?

    does the macbook air come with the charger when u order it from this site?

    In the Box
    MacBook Air
    45W MagSafe Power Adapter, AC wall plug, and power cord
    Printed and electronic documentation

  • Does the macbook air get hot from use?

    I am considering purchasing a Macbook Air.  I have had problems with notebook PC's in the past getting very hot.
    Does the Macbook Air get hot from use?

    Yes, well, virtually every computer has a fan in it; many fail their mission.
    Now that you mention it, I saw no grill or mesh anywhere when I looked at the MBA at the Apple Store.  Is it where the lid meets the body?  I didn't see speakers, either, although I heard music.

  • Does the MacBook Air have a slot for a lock?

    My current MacBook has a slot in which I can insert a lock to protect the computer in a public location (a library, for example).
    Does the MacBook Air have the same slot?
    Thanks.

    Unfortunately the MBA is too thin for the Kensington lock. I've seen a couple solutions but they aren't inexpensive. I've seen this one and some of these. I recommend Prey for after the fact.

  • Does the MacBook Air run CS5 Design Premium?

    Hi, I really want to get the MacBook Air for school, and I really want to get Design Premium for personal reasons. So, I went to find the specs for the MacBook Air 1.6ghz (1st gen) and found everything to match the requirements, except I am unsure about the video card. I know the newest models (1.86ghz and 2.13ghz) will work, but I want to purchase mine used to save money, as it will only be a temporary computer. If you can, please help me by answering the following question:
    Will the MacBook Air (1.6ghz 1st gen) run CS5 Design Premium?
    Thanks!
    p.s. If it does not, please (if you can) tell me which of the models (1.8 (1st gen), 1.86 (2nd gen), 2.13 (2nd gen)) will Design Premium work well on

    I looking to make a website, create pictures (3D) using Photoshop Extended, and some other small things. Will the MacBook Air 1.6ghz suffice?

  • Does the Macbook Air need to have a fan under it to prolong its life?

    I just bought a Macbook Air and would like to know if an external fan is necessary as it was for my Macbook. Even with the fan the Macbook would get really hot. I noticed that the Macbook Air gets warm also, but with everything internal being solid state I don't know if the external fan would be beneficial or not. Thanks for your thoughts, in advance.

    Anytime you can keep an electronic device nearer to a preferred temperature, you will do nothing but good for it. In this case, you may make the fan work at slightly lower RPM. Primary cooling of the MBA is acccomplished by means of an interior fan, coupled to a heat sink/pipe leading to the CPU/GPU. This same fan also draws air over the logic board. Interior heat is also expelled, to a lesser extent, by means of being radiated and conducted by the case bottom.
    However, blowing a fan across the bottom is probably the least efficient manner in which to aid cooling of the MBA, especially if you are drawing power from the MBA to run that fan.
    If your goal is to extract heat from the case, you can more efficiently do so if your heat conduction to the case itself is more efficient than air, as the case bottom has a rather low surface area to exterior dimension ratio. There are heat conducting materials suited for contact cooling, such as the Targus Heat Defense Pad. This device also consumes no power from the MBA. The downside is that it is only functional for a finite period, wherein the crystals remain somewhat solidified and are able to take on heat.
    If you are using the MBA for extended periods, perhaps a fan type cooler will offer some help, but don't expect much if it also contributes to heat generation by being powered from the MBA itself. Look for something that actually conducts heat from the case, and uses a fan across a high surface area element to transfer conducted heat to the air.
    But as far as the MBA actually "needing" additional cooling, ...in most cases no. If it were the case, then Apple would be making the recommendation. However, there are definite situations where users are putting much more heat loading than what would be considered "normal", and in such cases, it is definetely something to consider. I use a heat defense type pad from time to time, and it works great.

  • Does the MacBook Air power extension cord work with 230v?

    Hello,
    I understand that the MagSafe power adapter supplied with the MacBook Air is compatible with an overseas input of up to 230v, as printed on the adapter itself. However, the extension cord supplied with the laptop states 125v. Furthermore, even the small plug connected at the end of the adapter states an input of 125v. Does this mean that the plug and the extension cord are incompatible overseas at 230v, but the adapter is? Then, how must I connect a MacBook Air to a 230v outlet? I do have an outlet converter that does not transform voltage. Thank you for your support.
    (The adapter states it is compatible with 100v-240v, however, the circled plug is only compatible with 125v.)
    Mukund

    Yes, for the most part...
    If you get the AC in-cord to the Adapter with your regional plug on it,
    then the need for any other shape-converter or plug kit would vanish.
    Here's an example of the Apple (UK) world traveler kit for power adapters:
    http://store.apple.com/uk/product/MB974ZM/B/apple-world-travel-adapter-kit
    The part number (less UK) would be similar across all Apple Stores online
    & regional stores should have them in stock to match local/traveler shapes.
    Another example of regional parts with local plug ends, otherwise automatic
    conversion built-in, can be seen among these UK Apple Store items. {The US
    store has the local ones for North America; the AU store, for there, etc.}
    http://store.apple.com/uk/browse/home/shop_accessories/all_accessories/charging_ devices
    (You should be able to buy the Apple AC cord, for a MacBook/Air/Pro power
    adapter, in the region where you hope to use it. -- Better to have the whole
    device, in case you don't find an Apple Store or authorized reseller w/ Cords.)
    Other stores with the generic end-fit shape adapter w/o power conversion
    may be found in major cities near airports or border points. Luggage stores
    and travel accessories, or a travel outdoor outfitter, such as REI, Inc.
    And then, there are those kits with a power conversion adapter & transformer
    inside; these should not be necessary with any Apple product that has a near
    universal automatic AC power switching capability built into it. You can get a
    local regional AC power cord with the local plug affixed, or use a basic kit.
    Each online regional Apple Store sales pages show these kinds of products
    with their local power plug version, so it is possible to buy the replacement
    AC cord with the correct local plug on it. No further modifications necessary.
    {Another device that won't do much good, if you can't adapt, is a DC-to-DC
    adapter; this would need to have a MagSafe cord on the exit (output) end
    so as to avoid the MagSafe adapter altogether. Such as on a boat or a train
    where you may find no AC power, only DC. Uncommon, but possible.}
    Good luck & happy computing!

  • Does the Macbook Air need a protective case to avoid scratches?

    Hi.. My husband gave me a MacBook Air 11" for Christmas. I would like to ask if there is a need to put a protective case over it to avoid scratches. Also read reviews from MBA owners that putting a protective case makes the MBA heat up faster. I'm planning to get the iGlaze Moshi and considering its quite pricey, I would like your advice if there is really a need to have a protective case. Thanks!

    Hi Calcarballo.
    Many thanks for your question.
    As a user of a 2013 MacBook Air I have used Specks Shell for my MacBook Air and I cannot see a difference in heat. I bought the Speck 13" SmartShell Case for the MacBook Air and personally I am happy. It keeps the font screen clean from dirt and minor scratches and the bottom safe and clean. Personally, the Shell cases will not be a massive benefit if you throw your MacBook Air around but it does add a layer of protection.
    Highlights of the Specks Case include:
    Durable, ultra-thin hard shell protects from scratches and scuffs
    Sleek, glossy two-piece design is easy to put on and take off
    Anti-tilt rubberized feet keep your MacBook stable and secure
    The website for the SmartShell is here: http://store.apple.com/us/product/HD623ZM/A/speck-11-smartshell-case-for-macbook -air?fnode=50&fs=f%3D11inchmacbookair%26fh%3D36c2%252B2c0a
    If you were looking for supreme protection, I would look at a Thule 11" Gauntlet Envelope Case. I have this case for the MacBook Air 2013 13" and it is way more protective, it is an envelope that is tapered to provide a perfect fit and safeguards your MacBook Air.
    Highlights of this envelope include:
    Tapered shape provides a precise fit for MacBook Air
    Stitch-free, heat-welded seams
    Semi-rigid EVA foam construction creates a glove-like fit and the padded protection of a sleeve
    Nylex-lined interior lets MacBook easily slide in and out, preventing scratches
    The website for the envelope is here: http://store.apple.com/au/product/H9933ZM/A/thule-11-gauntlet-envelope-case-for- macbook-air
    Basically the choice is yours. The Protective case - the iGlaze Moshi and Speck's SmartShell will provide some protection against scratches and scruffs, but will not save your MacBook on big drops therefore do not utilise these SmartCases as an excuse to make sure your MacBook is safe. Your envelope will provide more protection but it is not as practical as the SmartCase.
    The Choice is yours!
    Many Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you!
    iBenjamin Crowley

  • How does the MacBook air 1.7ghz processor compare to the MacBook Pro 2.5ghz processor?

    Hello Hello!
    I'm a soon to be Information Science major (similar to computer science) and am in the market for a laptop that will last me at least 3-4 years. I'm trying to be as cost effective as possible while still having a configuration that will get me through my college years. I've been looking at either the 11" MacBook Air upgraded to 8gb of ram and the 1.7ghz i7 processor OR the baseline MacBook Pro with the 2.5ghz i5 processor upgraded to 8gb of ram.
    I'm leaning towards the MacBook Air because of the ssd and battery life, as well as the form factor. My only worry is that the processor won't be powerful enough to meet my needs as an information science major. I know I'll be learning programming and web development, among other things. I guess to sum up my question, will the 1.7ghz MacBook Air be powerful enough to use as a main machine as a student in this field?
    Screen size isn't a problem as I own a decent 20" monitor that I can use whenever I'm at my desk.
    Any feedback is much appreciated!

    Noticeably greater? Probably not. I have a MBP that I upgraded to 16 GB and a SSD and my MacBook Air seems at least as fast even though its CPU is slower and it has much less memory. They are both i7 models.
    It depends on exactly what you're planning to do with it, for example image manipulation will be faster on the MBP with its dedicated GPU (15" model only though), but for software development and debugging you are not likely going to notice much difference. These Macs are so fast that comparing minute differences isn't worth the effort. Comparing them on the basis of weight and portability is a better idea. The MBA is lighter, but the MBP is expandable... so the choice is likely to be more subjective than quantitative.
    We don't know what any future MBP changes will be implemented. Apple's product evolution is pointing in a direction away from expandability, and it's pretty clear disk drives (both optical and HD) are on the way out. If those considerations matter to you waiting for a future upgrade may not work in your favor.

  • Does the MacBook Air re-install drive for Mac OS (2011) re-format hard drive as well?

    Hello, my computer failed yesterday due to a Nbidia graphics card DOWNgrade, so I was wondering if the MacBook air re-install drive erase everything from your hard drive when you re-install it? Thanks!

    Yes, it certainly does have the tools to reformat the drive if desired. You can also reinstall the OS without reformatting, if you think the remedy of a simple "repair installation" is all that is necessary.

Maybe you are looking for

  • Unable to open reports and web analysis document in workspace

    After installing reports and analysis 9.3.1, when I am trying to preview a test report on web or as a pdf preview I am getting these kind of errors. <BR><BR> Required application module analyzer.reportview is not configured. Please contact your admin

  • Designing the Business Model diagram issue

    I need help from the experts. We have many tables in the physical layer but for our scenario consider only Dim 1, Dim 2, Fact 1, Fact 2, Fact 3. Fact 2, Fact 3 are the lowest granularity and relationship b/w Fact 1 ---> Fact 2 is one-to-many Fact 1 -

  • Cant find movie from videora

    i just transfered my movie into a mp.4 using videora but i cant find the new file to add to my itunes library. on the one site that shows step by step instructions for videora it says the new file will be located in the " output video to: " folder, c

  • FRM-41067: Cannot find menu item: invalid Id

    Hello, I have a menu, when i try to execute query by entering a value i received this message. i checked all my code, everything seems correct. someone can tell me what it could be wrong in my menu?

  • How do I sort a bookmark into a folder initially when I want to bookmark a page?

    In firefox 4/5 you could right click the page and select "Bookmark this page" and a dialog box would popup and ask you where you want to put the bookmark. On firefox 6, when I right click and select "bookmark this page" the dialog box does not come u