Apple Bumps Up the MacBook

2016-04-19 • SEND FEEDBACK |
Related: laptop, MacBook, Other World Computing, USB, USB-C

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My review of the 2015 MacBook is still highly relevant, but there are modest improvements in the April 2016 MacBook “bump”:

• About 15% faster CPU performance (claimed)
• Faster SSD, slightly faster memory, faster graphics.
• 8GB memory standard (disappointing not to have 16GB option).
• Claimed +1 hour longer runtime (41.4 Wh battery which is 10% more watt-hours along with more efficient Skylake CPU.
• DISAPPOINTING: does NOT have Thunderbolt 3 + USB-C port; still has only one (1) USB-C port for all expansion needs.

I liked/like the MacBook for what it is, but I would never confuse it for my laptop of choice, the 2015 MacBook Pro Retina 2.98 GHz 16GB / 1TB / M370X, albeit a model I hope to see supplanted by a Thunderbolt 3 model with an OLED wide gamut display.

More ports on the MacBook

OWC’s USB-C Dock may be the ticket for port expansion, given the single USB-C port. OWC also has USB-C cables.

OWC USB-C Dock for Apple MacBook

Apple MacBook (April 2016) high-end configurations in 4 colors