Macbook Pro exterior and scratches? Case questions too.

Question

My parents have a white Macbook and they got the invisible shield as well as the Incase notebook sleeve to keep it in good condition. While I think the invisible shield looks fine on the Macbook it isn't cheap for the full shield and it is annoying to apply the larger pieces. For the plastic case on the regular Macbook the shield seemed necessary because of how easily it scratches.
So I just ordered a MBP for myself and I was wondering how easily does the metal exterior scratch? I am very careful about how I handle my electronics but I don't want to be worrying about scratching my MBP as I use it.
Then I have two ideas for cases/protection options:
- Incase notebook sleeve & Invisible Shield
- Booq Vyper M2
Opinions are appreciated!

Answer 1

Well, let me tell you. I have a PBG4 I bought over 4 years ago, which I carry around all day and take it to all the classes I teach. The aluminum exterior on that computer is virtually identical in size and shape compared with the MBP of today and I assume the alloy is of similar hardness and brushed finish.
The only markings from wear are the shinyness on the palm rest area, the keys, trackpad and trackpad button. On top there are a few almost invisible marks when I've accidentally dropped the power plug or a USB plug on top. On the sides, there are a few scratches around the connectors due to haste and there's a mysterious and somewhat deep 1/8" gash next to the latch release on the front that I have no clue how it got there. All in all, the blemishes are quite minor and you would be hard pressed to guess that it is a hard working portable going into its fifth year of service. I just purchased one of the new MBP's that just came out and I'm confident that with similar care it will also be good looking after 4-5 years, so don't worry too much.
One thing, though, do protect the display from scratches. Since all displays accumulate dust and all sort of dirt, clean it only when absolutely necessary and using only a large microfiber wipe, like the Scotch Brite's from 3M, lightly moistened with clean water and immediately dried with a dry wipe. 4 years of my PBG4, 3 years of my TiPB and 3 years of my clamshell iBook, all with intact displays, are living proof that this works.