Using the 11.6 air as primary computer

[bcaslis]

I don't know if it's been mentioned but you CAN upgrade the SSD drive in the new Airs:

https://www.macrumors.com/2010/10/27/256gb-ssd-upgrades-for-new-macbook-air-announced/

There's a huge difference between something being announced by an unknown company and being able to actually do it.

As for the thread question:

1.) Yes, you can use it as a primary.
2.) No, you probably don't want to do this unless you have to. Being your only computer is not the sweet spot for this machine. Pairing the 11.6" with an iMac though would be a great combination for power and portability.

 

[teerexx52]

My eyes are really feeling strained. Would the 13" really make that much difference over the 11.6? It is only 6% bigger font. Would like to keep this one but for what ever reason my eyes are killing me

 

[diehldun]

Being your only computer is not the sweet spot for this machine. Pairing the 11.6" with an iMac though would be a great combination for power and portability.

I was actually thinking of this too- how would this work though? Is there an easy way to auto sync whatever is on the MBA automatically to the iMac (and vice versa), or do you have to "drag-and-drop" or copy everything manually?

I'm used to having just one computer at a time, so sorry I'm not too familiar with how this works with others. I like the idea though.

 

[bcaslis]

I was actually thinking of this too- how would this work though? Is there an easy way to auto sync whatever is on the MBA automatically to the iMac (and vice versa), or do you have to "drag-and-drop" or copy everything manually?

I'm used to having just one computer at a time, so sorry I'm not too familiar with how this works with others. I like the idea though.

I don't think there is any good easy way to synch. There are a few programs like Chronosync but I've never used it. For the most part the things I find I need to keep in synch aren't that much. Things like email are automatic and I can use MobileMe to keep bookmarks, contacts, and calendars in synch. Then use the iMac with file sharing and home sharing with iTunes to allow the MBA to get access to stuff when at home.

 

[gwsat]

The 11 inch MBA is so small and light it would do everything an iPad does, except 3G of course. But the 11 inch MBA does a lot more, too. It is a specialty machine though, because its 64GB and 128GB memory options and small screen make it unsuitable for use as a primary machine for those who want their new MBA to replace their old MBP. These were the reasons I got a 13 inch MBA instead of the 11 inch. Nevertheless, if money were no object, I would love to have a $999.00 entry level 11 inch MBA to use as an adjunct to my 13 inch MBA. It seems, though, money is always an object for most of us.

 

[AppleGoddess]

The 11" is my only computer it does everything I need to do.

 

[huntert93]

I sold my old Macbook 13" and my iPad to get my new Macbook Air. I got the 11.6" and i'm loving it!!
I'm using it as my primary computer for the very same reasons you are talking about.

With some Logic Studio thrown in here and there.

How does Logic Studio run with the 11.6? What setup do you have? Im thinking of getting the 11.6 with 4gb ram and 1.6ghz processor to use logic studio.

 

[teerexx52]

The 11" is my only computer it does everything I need to do.

I agree. With me its vision. How are you doing with the smaller screen and vision?

 

[wkw]

11 + external monitor. so light! only 2.3 lbs

 

[diehldun]

I agree. With me its vision. How are you doing with the smaller screen and vision?

I'm thinking the 27" ACD would complement it nicely back at home.

 

[teerexx52]

I'm thinking the 27" ACD would complement it nicely back at home.

I agree. With me though its when I would not be hooked up to the monitor which would be most of the time.

 

[bcaslis]

...It is a specialty machine though, because its 64GB and 128GB memory options and small screen make it unsuitable for use as a primary machine for those who want their new MBA to replace their old MBP...

This a false assumption from many of the 11" is a netbook crowd here. Some of use aren't buying an MBA to replace a MBP or are even in the least bit interested in the ability to replace a MBP.

Let's be honest, a MBP is a limited compromise compared to a good desktop. This constant drone by some (not necessarily you) that the 11" isn't good enough is silly. I could say the same thing about a MBP.

I'm not saying everyone should run out and replace their computers with the 11". I am saying that trying to put the 11" into some kind of niche based on assumptions is a poor idea. Everything is based on needs and capabilities. The 11" is a great solution for portability. For some it would be fine as a primary. But you need to make sure your needs match it's abilities.

 

[Yinmay]

The 11" is my only computer it does everything I need to do.

Same here. I plug it into my 23" LED LG when at home. And I bought a 4G USB modem for when I'm on the go.