More MacBook Air Details and Notes

[jragosta]

Not a single substantiative reply because you have none. And is it surprising that you get sexually excited about the possibility of dropping 2 pounds in carrying weight? No, you'll spend 1800 bucks instead of losing two pounds of your beer belly and carrying a functional computer.

Then the inevitable troll-accusation. My reasons are clear, you have no response, the majority of forum posters agree that the MacBook Air is a bad idea. When the MacBook Air goes down in flames not seen since the Cube, I expect a full apology.

Get a clue and get in the weight room, wimp.

It has little to do with fitness. It has to do with not wanting to carry extra weight because it puts strain on the neck and shoulders, or wanting to carry more work rather than a few extra pounds of computers or just plain not wanting to carry a heavy computer.

What gives you the right to say what someone should be willing to pay for?

Your 100% correct. But THAT is the point of the product! Welcome to the wonderful world of marketing!

And dude, don't get me started on Apples (over)pricing policies.
If price was really an issue we'd all be running on windoze. lol

Actually, the MBA is priced quite competitively - about $1K less than the Sony TZ, for example, even though the TZ has a smaller screen and a much slower processor.

For an ultralight, the MBA's price is quite competitive with their competition.

 

[Rendwich]

And since I'm carrying a laptop and power adapter on my shoulder through airports > 20 weeks a year, cutting the weight by more than 50% is a great thing.

It's not "more than 50%", it's 40%. 2.0 pounds is 40% of 5.0 pounds, which is what you save with MacBook Air. Adding in the power adapter (which is the same for both) drops it BELOW 40%. Then throw in the optical drive and the extra hard disk, and suddenly it's like 20% or even 0%.

Also, this is TWO POUNDS we're talking about. Do you feel that saving 40 cents of one dollar is a big accomplishment?

Just because you don't like it doesn't mean that other people won't. If YOU don't like it, then don't buy it.

I promise you I won't. I waited for almost a year because I wanted a small Macintosh notebook or even sub-notebook. Now it's here and it's hysterically-priced junk. Forgive me for stating the obvious and with the expected disappointment.

Other people are not going to like it either. It has the most overwhelmingly negative response in MacRumors' product history.

There are still The Cube fanatics out there, did you know that? True Believers who swear the The Cube is the best computer Apple ever made. Judging by the Homer comments here, I anticipate a similiar group of unshakeable devotees to emerge as MacBook Air sets sales records for worst Apple product.

 

[TheRuggedLion]

Think about two-seater cars, think about eg the Miata. Why do people drive these two-seater cars if they could get four-seater cars for usually less?

Thats a bad analogy. A Miata is cheap, the MBA is not. A corvette is a speed demon, the MBA is not.

Here is a better analogy... Paying MORE for a iPod nano, than an iPod touch, because its smaller and more slim. But it loses out on a whole list of things, screen size, disk space, etc. etc.


A question: When is the next Mac event? I wonder if I should get a MBP now or try to hold off...

 

[Pippen Man]

Can't wait until Apple releases an update for the MacBook Air and cripples every early-adopter out there. At the rate we're going, why not?

 

[jragosta]

It's not "more than 50%", it's 40%. 2.0 pounds is 40% of 5.0 pounds, which is what you save with MacBook Air. Adding in the power adapter (which is the same for both) drops it BELOW 40%. Then throw in the optical drive and the extra hard disk, and suddenly it's like 20% or even 0%.

Also, this is TWO POUNDS we're talking about. Do you feel that saving 40 cents of one dollar is a big accomplishment?

First, I was comparing it to the MBP. There are two models - 5.4 lb and 6.8 lb. So the weight reduction is either 44 or 56% - depending on the model you're comparing it to.
And the adapter is NOT the same for both - you can't even get your facts right.
And few people are going to be carrying the optical drive with them. The computer is mainly intended for people who don't need one.
AND, it's $200 less than the least expensive MBP - so you're not paying a premium to save weight, anyway.

So why don't you get the facts right instead of spewing uninformed flames?

I promise you I won't. I waited for almost a year because I wanted a small Macintosh notebook or even sub-notebook. Now it's here and it's hysterically-priced junk. Forgive me for stating the obvious and with the expected disappointment.

Other people are not going to like it either. It has the most overwhelmingly negative response in MacRumors' product history.

There are still The Cube fanatics out there, did you know that? True Believers who swear the The Cube is the best computer Apple ever made. Judging by the Homer comments here, I anticipate a similiar group of unshakeable devotees to emerge as MacBook Air sets sales records for worst Apple product.

SOME people won't like it. Lots of others will.

I'd be interested in your evidence that it has the most overwhelmingly negative response in MacRumors' product history. Just more of your fantasies, I guess.

If the MBA sets sales records, that indicates that people overwhelmingly prefer it over the options. The fact that YOU don't like it doesn't change that.

Personally, I don't expect it to set sales records. I think it will do quite well as a niche product - which is all that anyone has been saying. For people who value weight enough to make up for the tradeoffs, it's a great product. If you don't, there are still the MB and MBP.

What part of that is too difficult for you to comprehend?

Can't wait until Apple releases an update for the MacBook Air and cripples every early-adopter out there. At the rate we're going, why not?

Why don't you give examples where Apple has released an update and crippled early adopters who hadn't been hacking the thing?

 

[Rendwich]

It has little to do with fitness. It has to do with not wanting to carry extra weight because it puts strain on the neck and shoulders, or wanting to carry more work rather than a few extra pounds of computers or just plain not wanting to carry a heavy computer.

Who knew business travel was a blue-collar steveadore position? "Oh, the weight! Oh the neck and shoulder strain!" Maybe you should count your blessings and your pennies as you drive or fly around, spending the vast majority of your life SITTING DOWN not standing up?

The whole thing is comical, who knew that computer-using professionals were destroying their bodies by carrying 5 pounds instead of 3? It's hysterical.

What gives you the right to say what someone should be willing to pay for?

We have free speech in my country, how about yours? It's in our Constitution. And to turn the "if you don't like it, don't buy it" non-argument around: If you don't like what I type, don't read it. I never questioned your right to support this hilarious product. Stick to the issues if you want to discuss them, walk away if you don't. Just don't start attacking my rights. I'll defend my own, as well as yours, with my life.

Why don't you give examples where Apple has released an update and crippled early adopters who hadn't been hacking the thing?

Where "hacking" is defined as "installing my own programs, legally purchased or written, on my own legally-purchased hardware". Have you considered a position in the BSA?

 

[badNameErr]

For an ultralight, the MBA's price is quite competitive with their competition.

True, but I've no doubt that the margin will be very fat nonetheless.

 

[NAG]

Next you'll tell us that downloading music over torrent is just borrowing it until you decide if you actually want to buy it.

Seriously, get an attitude adjustment. Attacking people because you don't like something is petty.

 

[jackifus]

SSD performance ...

Since no one is talking about SSD performance at all - I'm assuming it wouldn't make an appreciable difference ...

am I wrong here?

Jack

 

[dmr727]

Hmm...12 posts, all today. Yeah, he's not a troll. Really.

 

[dsnort]

Not a single substantiative reply because you have none. And is it surprising that you get sexually excited about the possibility of dropping 2 pounds in carrying weight?

And again, your ignorance and lack of intellectual acumen shows itself. The fact that I only took time to dispute ONE of you arguments in a substantive way does not invalidate that argument

No, you'll spend 1800 bucks instead of losing two pounds of your beer belly and carrying a functional computer.

Well, while I COULD spare a couple of pounds from the middle, (but no more than 5 or I'll be asked to be on "American Gladiators" again!), I certainly can spare the $1800, or even the $3300, for a computer. When you grow up, you may be able to command such finances, (but only if you work hard to develop your intellectual capabilities beyond the point you have so far exhibited).

Then the inevitable troll-accusation.

The truth is inevitable, it WILL out.

Get a clue and get in the weight room, wimp.

Your so cute when your angry, the way your pimples quiver!

Chill out Rendwich. We're all Mac users here - we can all get along. Be nice.

No we're not. There are trolls about.

So why don't you get the facts right instead of spewing uninformed flames?

It's just the nature of the troll.

 

[neversink]

"AIR" is great, but....

It's a great product but I'll never buy one because it would become an aggravating computer for all the reasons mentioned including.

* Only one USB slot
* No Fire wire 400 or 800 (I thought Apple was innovative, not regressive)
* No DVD drive (Why do i want to buy an external one when I can get one of MB or MBP???)
* Slower drives, less storage space. Hello, what am i missing here???
* Slower processors than other MBs or MBPs.
* No connection to ethernet. (Why do I need to buy this when it comes standard on every computer.)
* And the worst offense: THE BATTERY IS SOLDERED IN SO I CAN'T CARRY SPARES WITH ME WHEN I GO TO AFRICA AND HAVE TO WAIT DAYS SOMETIMES TO GET A RECHARGE. Then I have to give my machine back to Apple to replace the battery. RIDICULOUS!!!! STUPID!!! And certainly NOT innovative.

Yes, it's a beautiful machine, but it needs a lot of revamping (such as including everything that is missing.) And I need those extra batteries that I can rely on when I travel.

I realize that some people will just purchase this because they have to have the newest and coolest product....

Me, an MBP suits me fine. it has nearly everything I need and is easy to work with and to work on..... I know I would be frustrated with the "Air."

And Macs aren't supposed to be frustrating!!!!!!!!

 

[jonswan]

Wow, this thread's full of bile.

The facts are that we haven't seen the damn thing in the flesh yet to make a final judgement on it.

Also, it clearly is not what most people were either wanting or expecting. Same goes for me. I wanted something slightly thinner than my 12in Powerbook - and what we got was something completely different.

Fact is most people's comments have been negative - mine will be more of the same. No optical drive is, in my opinion, a step too far right now. Also, a lack of ports. Also no replaceable battery looks a bit weird considering the target market.

I'm not buying one. My powerbook G4 will soldier on no doubt.

I just still can't believe they just didn't make the MBP smaller, with a 12 inch option - why the quantum leap? And where are the updates to the completely outdated MBP anyway? And where's the redesign on the MB that stops you from slitting your wrists on the sharp edges? etc. etc.

 

[NYmacAttack]

I still dont know why people are so upset. No one is forcing you to buy this new product. If the MBP or MB is better in your minds then you can buy them. The one reson the MBA is great is because its a sign of what can come from Apple in the future. No risks taken in design and we would still have 8lb "laptops" Yea the REV 1 isnt perfect but it can only get better, IMHO.

 

[jragosta]

Me, an MBP suits me fine. it has nearly everything I need and is easy to work with and to work on..... I know I would be frustrated with the "Air."

And Macs aren't supposed to be frustrating!!!!!!!!

That's nice. Then don't buy the Air.

If this were the only computer Apple offered, it would be a problem. But it's not - they offer different computers for different needs. None of the things you cited as problems are issues for the target audience.

 

[dsnort]

The facts are that we haven't seen the damn thing in the flesh yet to make a final judgement on it.

Now there ya go, disrupting a fine flamewar with trollbait by talking sense!

 

[Goliath]

US to UK pricing is a joke!!!!

Had the Macbook Air been released here in the UK at comparable US pricing I would have been first in line- $1799 at current exchange rates would equate to £900 (I know sales tax is added to US pricing and varies between states) but the UK pricing is £1,199 which at current exchange rates equates to $2,400

It's a shame 'cos it would be a reasonably priced laptop in the UK, for what it is, if the price was closer to the £900 mark

 

[Rendwich]

More Spewing of Informed Heat

First, I was comparing it to the MBP. There are two models - 5.4 lb and 6.8 lb. So the weight reduction is either 44 or 56% - depending on the model you're comparing it to.

The price comparison is close, but the performance comparison is SO FAR OFF that it's not even worth considering. I wasn't comparing this thing to "a great computer for a similar price", I was comparing it to "a better computer for a much lower price". Sorry for the confusion. Either way you slice it, the Pro or the regular MacBook, the Air comes out the loser on many, many fronts. It does come out a winner on weight, but unfortunately I think that's the only one. I guess the backlit keyboard is a winner vs. MacBook.

As for your percents, you round 44% to 40% and 56% to 60%, and in neither case do you get 50%. If you take the *average* then you're perfect, but unfortunately the *average* is not a tangible item. It doesn't exist and you can't carry it through an airport.

And the adapter is NOT the same for both - you can't even get your facts right.

What's the weight difference, then? 2 ounces? 3 ounces? Do tell! Again, you are quibbling about TINY amounts of weight to justify this whole product.

And few people are going to be carrying the optical drive with them. The computer is mainly intended for people who don't need one.

How are you going to put programs and data on it? Through the USB port? If you are worth 40 bucks an hour (low estimate) then you just lost at least 120 bucks to put the software you need on the computer through USB.

Wi-Fi? Slower, although 802.11/n is certainly a big improvement. Do you have access to an 802.11/n Wi-Fi connection in your business?

Cell-Phone modem? Come back in a few days.

The real point is that EVERYONE needs an optical drive, at least on occasion. There's no way around it. The OS comes pre-installed. The first time an upgrade fails or you do something to wreck your OS installation, you are going to lose the use of your computer for a *minimum* of one day to reinstall the OS.

There is no ethernet jack. There is no ethernet jack. There is no ethernet jack. There is no optical drive. There is no optical drive. There is no optical drive.

AND, it's $200 less than the least expensive MBP - so you're not paying a premium to save weight, anyway.

You're paying a premium in features and performance in your preferred comparison. The two computers are not even close to comparable. I bet the Geekbench score for a MacBook Pro is twice that of an Air. Just an guess based on the hardware differences, you can call me out if I'm wrong.

So if you LIKE paying all the price for half the performance to save a maximum of 2.6 pounds, then by all means, go for it. Just don't ask me to keep a straight face.

So why don't you get the facts right instead of spewing uninformed flames?

Which "facts" are you referring to? That the Air offers half the performance for all the price? Is that not a fact? That the Air is missing essential features which are necessary for computer use in 2008? Is that not a fact?

I'd be interested in your evidence that it has the most overwhelmingly negative response in MacRumors' product history. Just more of your fantasies, I guess.

I can't point you to a URL, but if you've seen any CPU release from Apple which has a worse early response, do mention it by name. If you are calling me a liar, demonstrate it. Otherise, an apology is in order. Anyone who reads this site regularly CANNOT HELP to notice the thunderous and overwhelming disapproval for the Air. It's unavoidable.

If the MBA sets sales records, that indicates that people overwhelmingly prefer it over the options. The fact that YOU don't like it doesn't change that.

I totally agree, let's see how it does. I will openly admit I was totally wrong if that happens. I'm not holding my breath.

Personally, I don't expect it to set sales records. I think it will do quite well as a niche product - which is all that anyone has been saying. For people who value weight enough to make up for the tradeoffs, it's a great product. If you don't, there are still the MB and MBP.

What part of that is too difficult for you to comprehend?

Suddenly you contend that Air is a niche product, while mentioning sales records in the previous paragraph! Suddenly I contended that all current Apple laptops are bad, though I never said anything remotely close, nor would I!

Every part of that is too difficult for me to comprehend.

 

[badNameErr]

I just still can't believe they just didn't make the MBP smaller, with a 12 inch option - why the quantum leap?

I remember reading (somewhere, years ago) that the 12inch PB didn't sell very well. Don't know if that was true though (I still love mine). Perhaps that is the reason????.

There is no ethernet jack. There is no ethernet jack. There is no ethernet jack.

Spend $29 on the USB->Ethernet adaptor, maybe?

(ducks)

 

[Rendwich]

Spend $29 on the USB->Ethernet adaptor, maybe?

(ducks)

The only way into your Air through a wire is USB, so no matter what you clip onto the outside, you're limited to USB speeds. If you want to use an external mouse (not crazy at all) while the transfer is in progress, you need a USB hub, which is going to slow it down even more.

 

[cthorp]

And now something entirely different…

Meanwhile, MS breaks ground with revolutionary designs of their own The image below is from one of Microsoft's partners, Ego Computers.

We really don't have it that bad over in the Mac universe.

Cameron

 

[jragosta]

The only way into your Air through a wire is USB, so no matter what you clip onto the outside, you're limited to USB speeds. If you want to use an external mouse (not crazy at all) while the transfer is in progress, you need a USB hub, which is going to slow it down even more.

I guess I didn't realize that you were a starving, homeless person who couldn't afford a wireless network.

Sorry.

Spend $29 on the USB->Ethernet adaptor, maybe?

(ducks)

Or use WiFi? Heck, almost every homeowner I know has WiFi.

Maybe we should petition Apple and demand that they start putting floppy drives in all their computers while we're complaining.

 

[AidenShaw]

Meanwhile, MS breaks ground with revolutionary designs of their own The image below is from one of Microsoft's partners, Ego Computers.

We really don't have it that bad over in the Mac universe.

Cameron

No?

By the way, I found those images right away by searching for "toilet seat ibook"....

And who can forget

and

 

[dsnort]

I guess I didn't realize that you were a starving, homeless person who couldn't afford a wireless network.

Sorry.

Mommy and Daddy haven't sprung for WiFi yet.

 

[cthorp]

iBook

It's not a value judgement on the design. The point is, the clamshell iBook is 8 years old! It shows MS trying to copy what was once cutting edge.

When I said we don't have it that bad, I meant it is better to lead than to follow.

Cameron