Jul

19

2006
Macbook&Ipod.jpg

The Black Macbook lists for $1499 at Apple’s website, but you can order it at other online retailers like MacMall for $1394 (after a $100 mail in rebate). Of course if you are in the education field or are currently a student you can purchase the black Macbook for $1399 at Apple’s website AND get a free ipod Nano or purchase the 30 gig iPod Video for $50. Sweet deal indeed.
I have owned a Powerbook G4 12″, as well as a few Wintel notebooks in the past and I can comfortably say that the new black Macbook is the best notebook I have used to date. What actually clinched the deal for me was the ability to run Windows, OS X, or Linux on the Macbook. No other company’s laptop can make that claim. The price for the MacBook is reasonable nowadays. I went to Dell, Sony, HP, and Fujitisu and tried to configure a similar notebook. They all came in at the same price or higher. I defnitely did not want a desktop replacement type of notebook (I have 3 computers at home). I wanted something light, but with a decent screen size (13″-14″) and a dual core processor (I multi-task heavily). The MacBook always came in near the most afforable solution out there, plus it was the most attractive notebook and it could run all three operating systems. Deal closed, I chose the MacBook. I would suggest that anybody interesting in getting the MacBook to add more ram then the stock 512 megabytes. Apple’s website is kind of expensive for ram, so I chose Newegg and ordered a stick of gigabyte memory. In the future I may add another stick of ram if the notebook requires it. At the moment it runs fine as is with the 1.25 gigs of memory. (Definitely don’t go with the Apple option of 2 gigs of memory of $450, you can buy it online for $150.)

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If you do wish to install your own memory for the MacBook. It is a simple procedure. You would have to first remove the battery from the bottom of the Macbook. From there just loosen the 3 screws on the long metal bracket, you do not remove the screws completely. Then pull out the bracket slowly. You will now see two levers protruding from where the bracket was. Turn a lever to the left to pull out the factory installed memory. Then slide in your newly purchased memory. You do have to apply firm pressure and I do mean firm pressure. Once the memory is placed in its slot. Put the bracket back, tighten the 3 screws, and put your battery back into its compartment. Voila.

After spending a month with the MacBook, I must say that I cherish my MacBook and think it is the best notebook that I have ever used. Apple switching to the Intel chips was one of the best things Steve Jobs has ever done. The ability to run Windows XP and Linux is a huge plus for me. Currently you can use Boot Camp to dual boot into Windows XP or use Parallels to run Windows or Linux inside of your OS X as a guest operating system. One other option is Codeweaver’s Crossover which allows you to run a limited amount of Windows program in OS X without the overhead of running an actual second operating system.

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My Macbook is fast, as versatile as a swiss army knife, and works oh so elegantly. My only gripe with the Macbook would be the LCD screen. When you look at the screen at the optimal angle (screen is parallel with your your face) the screen is clear and very bright. Much better than my previous Powerbook’s screen. The problem is when you look at it slightly off axis, the screen gets noticeably dimmer. This occurs if you view the screen to high or low from that optimal angle. The screen is fine if you view it slightly off axis to the left or right. I do find that problem annoying. There also has been a lot of postings about the MacBook running hot. I can say that my MacBook does not run any warmer than the my previous G4 Powerbook or previous Wintel notebooks I have owned. The Macbook does get very warm at the top left corner of the keyboard area, near the AC plug. I rarely notice it, since my hands rarely go in that area. The AC plug has been brilliantly redisgned. You no longer have to worry about the notebook flying off the desk if someone steps over the power cable. The AC plug is held into its laptop connector by a magnetic lock, which easily lets go as it senses pressure being applied to it. Very neat. If they changed the color of the AC plug to match the black MacBook’s case I would have been even happier. The notebook’s lid is also held by a magentic lock as well. No more unseeming hooks and latches sticking out.
There is enough ports on the MacBook to satisfy most everyday user. I was also slightly annoyed that I had to buy a mini-dvi to DVI connector ($17) to use the video out feature on the notebook. But it wasn’t that big of deal. The built in iSight camera works well and although not something I absolutely need, it is cool to have it built into the notebook. The Front Row Software is absolutely awesome, as well as the included Front Row remote. Windows Media Center is Frankenstein compared to the elegant beauty of the Front Row software (note Front Row does not work with any type of tv tuners).
The notebook gives a solid 3 and half hours of battery life with regular (real life) usage. I can comfortably watch an entire movie on the notebook and have plenty of battery life left to browse the net or listen to music as well.
The operating system itself is a pleasure to use. Im not a fan of the brush metal look of some of the apps that come with OS X, like quicktime player and safari, but that can be easily fixed with a program called Uno (look below at recommended free apps for OS X below for more information). Some free apps that all users should download when they first get their MacBook are :

Adium - best instant messenger available for OS X. Works great with AIM, MSN, Yahoo, ICQ, and Google Talk/Jabber. Adium, since version 0.88, has been released as a Universal Binary. The latest version can be downloaded here.

Firefox - Safari is nice, but if there is a multi-platform client, I will usually chose that option since I also use Linux and Windows. The latest version of Firefox can be downloaded here and it is a Universal Binary.

Gimp - Adobe Photoshop is great, but the Gimp is 100% free and runs on Linux/Mac/Windows. In addition Adobe hasn’t released a Universal Binary of Photoshop, while you can download Gimp-2.2.1 in Universal Binary format here (You do need to install X11 from your installation disk prior to using the Gimp).

UNO - make OS X have a unified “Aqua” look (get rid of the dopey brushed metal look for certain apps like Safari). Program is available in Universal Binary format and can be downloaded here.

NeoOffice - NeoOffice is an office suite based off of OpenOffice but you don’t have to install X11 and the program uses the OS X Aqua interface. The program runs, looks great, and it’s free. NeoOffice can be download here here.

VLC - The best media player on the planet. Runs on Linux/Mac/Windows and beats the pants off of QuickTime Player. VLC for Intel powered OS X can be downloaded here.

Skype - For communicating with friends and family anywhere in the world (via instant message or voice) Skype is a personal favorite of mine. I get a big kick out of firing up Skype at a wifi spot and calling friends with my laptop (screw you Sprint!). Universal Binary version of Skype for OS X can be downloaded here.

Mac The Ripper - if you want to watch some dvd’s on your notebook, without actually taking the DVD with you, Mac The Ripper is essential. Makes a perfect image of the DVD to your hard drive. Mac The Ripper can be downloaded here.

HandBrake - If you want to convert DVD’s into iPod or AppleTV formats Handbrake is what you need. Handbrake can be downloaded here.

Flip4Mac - To view .WMV files on your Mac you need Flip4Mac. Free version can be downloaded here.

* If you want to run Windows or Linux on your MacBook look into our reviews of Parallels and VMware Fusion.

I absolutely love my Black MacBook. If you want to save a few dollars and can live with a smaller 60 gig hard drive, you might want to consider the White MacBooks. For me and my clammy hands, the White MacBooks simply wasn’t an option. I repeat - I love my Black MacBook. I wouldn’t even trade it for any of the MacBook Pro’s. If you are looking to buy a laptop, the Macbooks are the best value on the market today. If money is no object, you might want to consider the MacBook Pro’s (do you want a bigger screen - which will mean a bigger and heavier notebook or need the extra 3D horsepower available on those notebooks?). If your answer is no - then get the MacBook!

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Presenting Macbook Pro

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29 Comments so far

  1. 29 LS Says: February 6, 2008

    After reading your review, I think I am pretty set on buying the black macbook. I own a PowerBook G4 from 2002. I loved it, but I am ready to update. I am a Realtor and everyone is telling me to get a PC (for MLS, Winforms, and syncing my blackberry), but I figured using parallels or fusion would work just fine to access these programs. I was considering a Dell or a Sony, but I have always loved Mac’s. What would you do? (I trust your opinion just from reading your review.)

  2. 28 jfb Says: December 1, 2007

    Dear Kim, We need this. Love Jack

  3. 27 luna6 Says: November 29, 2007

    Mike : In November Apple updated the Macbook to the newer 64-bit Santa Rosa architecture, with Core 2 Duo processors and faster GMA X3100 graphics processor, so it’s even better now. I don’t expect any new radical changes in the Macbook line in the near future.

  4. 26 mike Says: November 28, 2007

    I am considering getting the black macbook but read that your article was written back in july 2006. Now a year on, do apple not intend to release a newer model of the macbook? itd be a shame for me to buy one now and see that they are releasing one sometime soon…
    thankyou

  5. 25 luna6 Says: November 28, 2007

    With printers it’s dependent on the operating system and the drivers available for it. OS X has good compatibility with most major printers out there, but whichever printer your interested in, you may want to make sure its Mac compatible (most likely it is). The Macbook sports USB ports only, so older Parallel Port printers are out of the equation.

    Cellphones would be reliant on Bluetooth, which the Macbook has.

    Hope that helps.

  6. 24 diana Says: November 27, 2007

    What about the connectivity with printers and cellphones???

    thankyou

  7. 23 D30N Says: August 28, 2007

    This review was very helpful, since i plan to purchase this item within the week, thanks alot I will get all the recomended softwares~

  8. 22 NSY Says: July 9, 2007

    I wasn’t too sure if I wanted to put $1,500 on a notebook (other than for its sleek look) that I didn’t seem to know much about. The Apple site didn’t tell me much…You did an AWESOME job listing the pros and cons of this notebook. For all that Apple offers on its notebook, it’s definitely at a reasonable price.

    This post has confirmed my descision to purchase a black MacBook.

    Thank You for posting!

  9. 21 shahin Says: July 7, 2007

    dear sir,
    we have need used or refabished ,lowcostlaptop
    please send about your stock.
    ragards
    shahin

  10. 20 Nik Says: June 26, 2007

    ur review helped me out a lot in makin my decision on a laptop. Keep it up and thanx a lot for the help.

  11. 19 curt Says: June 19, 2007

    and nobody buys a dell at the listed price

  12. 18 curt Says: June 19, 2007

    [quote]I went to Dell, Sony, HP, and Fujitisu and tried to configure a similar notebook. They all came in at the same price or higher.[/quote]

    you didnt try hard enough especially for the dell. deals come out 2-3 times a month. superdeals 3-5 times a year.

  13. 17 Macbook User Says: May 10, 2007

    man, you did a nice macbook review, i agree with you at all. I hope you keep going like that, i’ll keep browsing your site every week.

  14. 16 luna6 Says: May 2, 2007

    Thomas I would be surprised if Apple’s website accepted your order and shipped it all the way to Belgium. But if they do I would go for it. I’m pretty sure stores there will honor the apple warranty wherever you bought it originally.

    I had sent an ipod nano as a gift to Korea and shortly afterwards the screen cracked and the person in Korea took it to a apple dealer and they replaced it on the spot (she didn’t even have the receipt since it was a gift).

    Kind of sucks how prices differ in every country, but I think if you can get Apple to ship it to you there and you save $400 you should go for it. cheers

  15. 15 Thomas Says: May 2, 2007

    Hi,

    I live in Europe and a Macbook (black) costs with us 1500 euro that’s something like 1800 dollars I think, that’s quiet expensive!!!

    Would you guys recommend me to buy it from the apple website?

    What if something wrong with it? Can I still go to the apple shop here in Belgium?

    greetz

  16. 14 luna6 Says: April 14, 2007

    Cody : I think most of those problems have been ironed by new revisions and firmware updates. I did get hit by the non-chargeable batter, but Apple was nice enough to overnight me a replacement battery (luckily laptop was still under warranty). I think you would be pretty happy with the macbook.

    Jess : MacBook wouldn’t be easier to type in dim light. The screen gives off a minimum amount of lighting to the keybaord but you would still have to squint hard to type in a dark room. Would have been cool if they implemented backlighting. On the flipside it hasn’t been a huge issue for me so far , not often that I have had to type in a dark room.

  17. 13 Jess Says: April 14, 2007

    I have a back lit keyboard on my G4, and was disappointed to hear this is not includede in the MacBook (yes in the pro). Does anyone think the keyboard of the white or bladk Macbook is easeir to see in dim light?

  18. 12 Cody Says: April 2, 2007

    Hey i’m thinking of buying a macbook, and I was just wondering if there are any other defects of the laptop before I fork out money for it. Some people have told me not to buy dell, hp, or ibm (some of the brands I thought of first). These poelpe told me to check out the Apple Macbook, I did, and it looks good to me but after reading some reviews on sites about the non-chargable battery, heating up, and discolourations on the laptop, I don’t really know. If anybody has any more information (good or bad), please mail me at toads39@hotmail.com and in the subject type Apple Macbook please. thx

  19. 11 luna6 Says: February 27, 2007

    Hey Mitch,
    Interesting that you point out that fact. About a month my battery died out of the blue. The battery icon on the top OS X taskbar would show a sign indicating a battery was not in the notebook, when the battery was actually in place. The darn thing wouldn’t charge at all after that. I called Apple Tech and they cross shipped a new battery to me overnight. Would have sucked if it was out of the 1 year warranty period, but regardless happy with the customer support that I recieved. After nearly a year of daily usage, I am still really impressed with the notebook. (All my previous notebooks - I would get tired/bored of the thing after a few months).

  20. 10 mitch Says: February 26, 2007

    hey guys, for the most part my black mac has been a dream
    one problem i found that i have read up on is the ongoing problem with the unchargable battery. if u find ur macbook doing this i suggest ordering a new one right away for warranties sake. other than that my MacBook has been amazing it has gotten hot but this is expected in all notebooks and it is not like in singes you or anything but all in all a wicked post and a wicked computer

    mitch

  21. 9 joe Says: December 23, 2006

    im getting one of these things for xmas.
    i’ve heard 15\16 good about it.
    and 1\16 bad.
    lets hope that 1\16 doesnt turn out to me only using this thing to scramble eggs on its bottom.(since it gets to hot suposively?

  22. 8 Mitch Says: December 4, 2006

    Hey Key Lime,

    Yes, you can run OneNote on the OS X platform.
    Checkout CodeWeavers Crossover. It’s great man.

    http://www.codeweavers.com/

    Peace,
    Mitch

  23. 7 Tim Says: November 25, 2006

    I’m buying this laptop asap. Thanks for writing this review.

  24. 6 Francis Says: August 7, 2006

    To Key Lime :
    I have never used the OneNote program but I do use a similar program called Soho Notes on the Mac. http://www.chronosnet.com/Products/sohonotes.html is the link to program. I use it daily and have no complaints about the app. Cheers….

  25. 5 Key Lime Says: August 7, 2006

    Nice review and info. I’ll share mine. I picked up my black MacBook today. I’m a long time PC user 12 years, designer. I didn’t know anything about macs before today.

    My general feelings 14 hours in:

    - I was suprised to find that OneNote (my fave program isn’t available in Mac)
    - I really like the two finger scrolling
    - The hardware is beautiful
    - Moving from a 15.4 to a 13 screen is quite a change.. But easier for me to tote around
    - With a 80gb hard-drive - I was astonished to see 20gig taken by Apple (and I don’t know how to get rid of any of it - can anyone help?)
    - The Mac file structure seems much more intuitive, clean, user friendly
    - I wish there were lights on the hardware to show if the HD is running
    - 512k doesn’t cut it
    - The Thumb click doesn’t seem very sharp - feels spongy, hard to use

    However - as much as I like the interface I’m currently installing Windows XP.

    I reduced the Mac partition as far as it would go and will probably just run windows on it. Primarily due to the OneNote need (Word for Mac isn’t as feature rich), and because well - I just am not sure I’m comfortable with it.

    So all in all I’ve spent $1600 for a 13″ laptop (with another $300 to go for a ram and hard drive upgrade) - I could have bought one sweet PC for that price.

    However - due to sleek lines, and supposed relaibility - I think it’s worth it (for a new toy)

  26. 4 NoRCoN Says: August 5, 2006

    Sweet review! I ordered my black one last Thursday. Today is Saturday and it hasn’t arrived yet (I opted for the 2 day FedEx shipping). Seeing how FedEx doesn’t deliver on Sunday’s, I guess I will have to wait ’till Monday before I get my hands on the beast. This is my first Mac and I am convinced that I made the correct decision.

  27. 3 Mad_Villain Says: July 24, 2006

    Just picked up a black macbook myself and first time ever owning an Apple computer. I must say that I am “wow’d” by the notebook. Some things I like about the notebook: The keyboard is very silent and soft while being firm (not bouncy), connecting a HD video camara to the firewire connector and using the built-in iMovie software was a breeze, the wireless setup was a no brainer and worked from the get go, and finally, the built in iSight camera worked great and better than expected. Also love the remote for Front Row. One minor problem is that the black finish makes smudges a little more noticeable. I have to wipe the the palm rest areas often, otherwise can see some ugly grease smudges. Besides that….Apple is the best - I love this computer and I think you will too.

  28. 2 Jonathan Says: July 22, 2006

    One other thing I should note is that apparently the MacBooks benifit from having two sticks of identical RAM (matched pairs) so that it runs dual channel, I currently have two sticks of 512MB in mine.

  29. 1 Jonathan Says: July 22, 2006

    I agree 100%, Greatest notebook I’ve ever owned as well. However I am currently experiencing the random shutdown problem as well as many others, but I hope to have that fixed very shortly.