The trinity of updated MacBooks is now complete. Apple introduced the new 13-inch MacBook Pro last week, the last of the three laptops to receive an upgrade. This latest version comes packed to the brim with updates, making it one of the finest MacBooks yet. It’s not a completely different machine. Plenty of familiar features are returning, so old users can adjust to the new laptop with ease. At the same time, Apple is waving goodbye to some of its less desirable aspects with this newest instalment.
What’s Returning?
Given how the 16-inch MacBook replaced the 15-inch in November, some users expected a similar size update with this model. As you can tell from its label, though, the 13-inch is staying at 13 inches. It also comes with Apple’s renowned Retina display, the same one you can find on older models. Like the previous version, it offers up to four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports, with two on either side. From the outside, you could mistake it for the same MacBook as before. As soon as you start using it, though, you’ll notice some remarkable differences.
What’s New?
With the new 13-inch MacBook Pro, Apple has waved goodbye to its controversial butterfly keyboard switches. This model features the same Magic Keyboard as the 16-inch, including redesigned scissor switches. Users will find typing on this keyboard to be a much more comfortable experience than the previous model. If you’re one of the 42% of people who struggle with distractions, there’s good news. You now have options for memory so fast that there won’t be enough loading time for you to get distracted. You can opt for 10th-gen Intel processors, offering double the performance, and up to 32GB of memory. Apple’s doubled the storage space, too, with the standard model offering a 246GB SSD. You can upgrade this space up to a whopping 4TB of storage.
When Can You Get The New MacBook?
The new 13-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,299, but if you’re a student, you can get it for $100 cheaper. It’s available for order on Apple’s website now, and will ship within the month if you’re in the States. Different models offer varying shipping dates. We’re still waiting for local delivery options if you’re based in South Africa. With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, South Africa may be further effected. Availability could be limited in the first couple of months, depending on how the outbreak affects supply chains.
The Next Generation of MacBooks
With this edition of the 13-inch MacBook Pro, Apple’s new lineup of MacBooks is complete. The next generation of Apple laptops is here, and it’s miles ahead of the last one. With the new keyboard switches and updated storage, Mac users have more to brag about than ever. While the pricing announced sits in a similar price range as older models, we’ll need to hope that the pricing reflects locally – where import costs and taxes might impact it. However, if you’re looking to upgrade your current MacBook this might be a good time to look into the options available.
