Test
Getting an opinion on a computer is not always obvious. And for the sake of it, even more so than the smartphone, the opinion that is made depends on the use that one has. Some are looking for a computer to write e-mails and type long documents while others want to be able to make video editing and photo retouching. Some also want a computer to take anywhere with them when those who move little will prefer a large screen model, even if it is less manageable.
So to give us an opinion on the new Apple MacBook (with an Intel Core M3 processor and 256 memory), the ultra-portable of the Apple Computer range, we decided to use it for two weeks as the main computer. So we used it in the office, on the move or in the transports and this as well to enter text as to edit images. Fifteen days later, checkup.
A very nice machine, to take everywhere
Facing the new MacBook, our regular MacBook Pro is very heavy and thick. And because of this, the new Apple machine weighs less than a kilo (920 grams). And despite its 12-inch screen, a little wider than that of the usual 11-inch models, it's hard to make more portable. The MacBook is without problems everywhere with you. Both in the office, in the airplane or in the train, it is easy to open and work with this machine that accommodates little space.
The design reminds us of what we already know about Apple. The computer is beautifully built, looks sturdy despite its finesse and gives a high end impression. Like its eldest, the MacBook Pro, it is available in silver grey and in sidereal grey. Like on the IPhone, you can also find pink gold and gold.
A striking comfort
Among the evolutions of this cuvée 2017 compared to the previous model, the Apple brand changed the keyboard. The latter now takes over the same butterfly technology as the MacBook Pro released last fall (which we had tested here). The result is similar: the striking, although confusing at first, is particularly comfortable. When it is necessary to enter long texts, like this text that we write with the MacBook, we appreciate the weak press of the keys, more pleasant than on a classical keyboard.
Especially, despite the small size of the machine, the keyboard is well organized and each key falls easily under the fingers. In two weeks, we seldom have to make typos or be embarrassed by the positioning of certain keys.
A minimalist connection
On the connection side, the MacBook is the least minimalist. It is available in all and for both connectors: a type-C USB port used to recharge the device or connect accessories and a mini jack for connecting headphones or headphones. And with only one port, USB-C which is more, some will not find their account. An adapter is indeed indispensable for plugging in a USB stick, an external monitor or even to recharge its smartphone (except to have the necessary cable).
So, is it awkward on a daily basis? Yes, and No. In our case, we use quite a few external devices and we didn't need a single adapter in fifteen days. Those who juggle between USB sticks and external screens on the other hand will need to acquire an adapter (between 25 and 79 euros, depending on the type of adapter). But in general, those who regularly need to connect multiple devices at the same time will prefer a MacBook Pro, with four USB-C HUb sockets.
Perfect for office automation and low-greedy stains
For two weeks, we tried to vary the use of our test MacBook to the maximum to test its limits. So if it is perfectly suited to capture text, send and reply to emails, surf the Internet or view photos, it is clearly not suitable for some more greedy tasks. If the photo retouching does not pose a problem, it is better to avoid video editing. The Intel Core M3 processor is indeed quickly exceeded when the film exceeds a few minutes.
The built-in storage, 256 by default, also adapts well to these uses. If it will be a little bit just to store video editing or many movies, it is ample enough to contain a lot of documents or photos. For those who would still like a little more memory and power, another model, sold 1,799 euros, integrates an Intel Core i5 processor as well as memory 512.
The perfect machine in mobility
Autonomy, it, makes it the perfect machine in mobility. The MacBook makes it possible to hold a full day away from a power outlet. A real comfort. After two weeks of taking the MacBook everywhere with us, we finally have a lot of trouble getting back to our usual MacBook Pro with us as its weight seems important in a bag.
