MacBook Air (Mid-2012) Review & Giveaway - Tech Review
MacBook Air (Mid-2012) Review
The MacBook Air (Mid-2012) receives a rating of 8.00 out of 10.
Key Considerations
Purchasing a MacBook Air requires careful consideration of your needs. The primary justification for owning this model is its exceptional portability.
It’s an ideal choice for individuals who frequently travel and require a lightweight, yet powerful, computing device. For those with less mobile lifestyles, alternative options might represent a more prudent investment.
Detailed Examination
This review focuses on the $1099 mid-2012 11-inch 128GB MacBook Air, which was launched in June 2012. A comprehensive assessment of the 11-inch model’s performance in everyday use will be provided.
We will explore its suitability for various tasks and help you determine if it aligns with your specific requirements.
Review Highlights
- The MacBook Air excels in providing a balance between power and minimal weight.
- Its compact form factor makes it exceptionally convenient for travel.
- Consider your usage patterns to ensure this model is the right fit.
Furthermore, a giveaway of this MacBook Air is planned at the conclusion of this review!
If constant movement is a defining characteristic of your work or lifestyle, a capable and unburdening computer is essential. The MacBook Air fulfills this need admirably.
Introduction
The MacBook Air is available in four distinct configurations: two models featuring an 11-inch display and two with a 13-inch screen, with prices beginning at $999. The 11-inch versions are nearly identical, differing only in their flash storage capacity – 64GB and 128GB – and a corresponding $100 price variation.
Both 11-inch models incorporate a 1.7Ghz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of 1600MHz DDR3L RAM, and Intel HD Graphics 4000 for integrated graphics processing. The 13-inch MacBook Airs are offered at $1,199 and $1,499, depending on whether they include 128GB or 256GB of storage.
These larger models also utilize the same integrated graphics and 4GB of memory. However, they boast a slightly faster 1.8Ghz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, capable of reaching speeds up to 2.8Ghz with Turbo Boost technology.
Competitive Ultrabooks
When considering alternative Ultrabooks, several options exist. Dell’s XPS 13 Ultrabook, for example, is priced at $999.99 but features a less powerful processor and older integrated graphics. It also weighs 2.99lbs, compared to the 11-inch MacBook Air’s lighter 2.38lbs.
HP offers several Ultrabooks, but the ENVY Spectre XT Ultrabook 13-2050nr is their most portable option, retailing for $999.99. Similar to its lengthy name, the ENVY is heavier at 3.07lbs and incorporates the same processor – a Core i5-3317U – as the MacBook Air.
The similarities extend beyond the processor; both machines share the same integrated graphics and memory specifications. Interestingly, the ENVY’s design also bears a resemblance to the MacBook Air.
Samsung’s Series 9 11.6-inch notebook initially appears competitive, but a closer look reveals a 1.33GHz Intel Core i3 processor, only 2GB of memory, slower integrated graphics, and a significantly higher price of $1,199. Does this change your perspective on Apple’s pricing?
Further Comparisons
Lenovo provides two Ultrabook lines potentially comparable to the MacBook Air: the Thinkpad X Series and the IdeaPad U Series. From these, the ThinkPad X230 Laptop with Faster Processing stands out. It’s priced at $939 and includes an Intel Core i5-3210M processor, the same Intel HD 4000 integrated graphics, a 500GB hard disk drive, and a 12.5-inch screen.
Upgrading the 500GB 7200rpm hard drive to a 128GB SSD adds a $240 premium, bringing the total cost to $1179.
Finally, Toshiba’s offering, the Portege Z935-ST2N02 Ultrabook, is closely configured to the MacBook Air. It features the same processor, 128GB SSD, and integrated graphics. The primary differences are a 13-inch display, 2GB more memory, and the inclusion of a LAN port.
Weighing only 2.48lbs and priced at $999.99, it presents a strong alternative.
Ultimately, determining the most suitable option is a matter of individual preference.
First Impressions of the MacBook Air
Apple’s dedication to exceptional product design extends to its packaging. The experience of opening any Apple product is noteworthy, and the MacBook Air is no exception to this standard.
Within the box, the MacBook Air is securely held in a fitted plastic support. This ensures it remains stable until intentionally lifted.
Beneath the device, you’ll find the necessary power cables and a supplementary package of accessories.
Notably, this includes the signature Apple stickers.
The presentation immediately creates a positive impression.
The MacBook Air shipped with the Lion operating system. A quick start guide is included to familiarize new users with the OS’s core functionalities.
This guide would be particularly helpful for individuals unfamiliar with the OS X environment.
It’s important to note that, in contrast to other Mac models, a physical copy of the operating system is not provided with the MacBook Air.
Design
Previously, I utilized a MacBook as my primary computer. This purchase proved to be exceptionally valuable. Remarkably, even after being exposed to coffee, the device continues to function reliably to this day.
One immediate observation was the smaller size of the power adapter for the MacBook Air compared to the standard MacBook. The difference may not be readily apparent in images, but it is also noticeably lighter, enhancing its portability.
The overall design of the MacBook Air has remained consistent with prior iterations. The aluminum unibody construction maintains the same dimensions.
Upon closer inspection, a modification can be detected – the MagSafe 2 connector has reverted to its original form, presenting a slimmer profile than its previous angled design.
A significant upgrade has been made with the transition from USB 2.0 ports to the faster USB 3.0 standard. These ports are conveniently located on both sides of the MacBook Air.
The right side of the MacBook Air features the second USB 3.0 port alongside a Thunderbolt port. Notably, the 13-inch model includes a memory card reader, a feature that was not incorporated into the smaller 11-inch version due to space constraints.
Evaluating the MacBook Air
Numerous assessments of the MacBook Air have noted concerns regarding the aluminium casing's build quality. However, my own experience indicates that the metal unibody construction demonstrates considerable resilience. While some wear is inevitable with regular use, it isn’t as pronounced as some reports suggest.
Should you prioritize careful handling of your devices, the MacBook Air should prove perfectly adequate. Conversely, if your usage patterns involve frequent impacts or rough treatment, investing in a protective case might be advisable, though this could compromise the device’s streamlined profile.
It’s crucial to remember the intended purpose when considering a MacBook Air purchase. This model was conceived primarily as a lightweight computing solution, designed for users requiring full computer functionality while remaining mobile. Portability was paramount, alongside extended battery life – areas where the MacBook Air truly excels.
Performance and Usage
The 11-inch MacBook Air incorporates an Intel Core i5-3317U processor, classified as ultra-low power, yet capable of delivering sufficient processing power for typical tasks.
Demanding applications like video rendering are not its forte, aligning with its design priorities. A formal benchmarking comparison isn’t provided, as such tests aren’t representative of the average MacBook Air user’s workflow.
Instead, the focus remains on everyday applications – and that is where this machine shines.
During testing, the MacBook Air was utilized for tasks related to MakeUseOf, encompassing extensive web browsing, image manipulation, email correspondence, and editorial work. Essentially, it was used for a great deal of typing and online activity.
Transitioning from a previous MacBook, the updated, more responsive keyboard introduced in the 2011 MacBook Air was immediately noticeable. The keys offer a firmer feel than anticipated, providing a more tactile typing experience.
While not definitively preferable to the softer keys of older models, they have proven to be remarkably accurate.
Trackpad and Battery Life
As a long-time MacBook user, adapting to the glass multitouch trackpad continues to present a slight challenge. Multitouch functionality is valuable, but a preference remains for single or dual-finger operation.
Utilizing four fingers for gestures on the compact trackpad isn’t particularly enjoyable. The trackpad also exhibits increased resistance when clicking, requiring more deliberate pressure to register input. This design choice likely aims to minimize accidental clicks.
With typical usage – display brightness at approximately 75%, keyboard backlighting enabled, and WiFi active – the battery consistently delivered over 4 hours of operation. The 11-inch model features a smaller battery than its 13-inch counterpart, which is reported to achieve 5 hours of runtime with WiFi enabled.
These results are considered satisfactory. Over 4 hours of uninterrupted use with a reasonably bright display is a positive outcome. Further battery life extension might be possible through more aggressive power-saving settings.
Despite its compact size, the MacBook Air incorporates speakers that deliver surprisingly robust audio performance. They are notably louder than expected.
Experiencing the MacBook Air
Traditionally, laptops often require consistent connection to a power outlet, typically around 90% of the time. However, the MacBook Air presents a different experience – I found myself utilizing its battery power for approximately 90% of my usage. Recharging is the sole reason for connecting it to a power source.
This level of portability rivals that of a tablet, offering remarkable convenience.
My primary reservation regarding the 11-inch version centers on its screen size. While adequate for general web browsing and video playback, it proves limiting when undertaking tasks like data analysis or image manipulation due to insufficient display area.
Having grown accustomed to a triple-monitor configuration, the MacBook Air’s screen can feel somewhat constrained. Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that this device isn’t intended as my main work computer.
The trade-off between screen size and portability is acceptable for occasional use.
The absence of an optical drive and a traditional network port doesn’t pose significant issues for me. Optical drives are rarely integrated into my daily workflow.
Furthermore, I believe USB flash drives offer a superior alternative to DVDs and CDs in terms of storage capacity. Initially, the missing network port was a minor inconvenience.
File transfers of substantial size took longer over WiFi than they would have with a wired connection. However, this situation did not arise frequently.
Final Thoughts
Prospective buyers of the MacBook Air should carefully consider its intended use before making a purchase. It’s important to recognize that this laptop isn’t positioned as the highest-performing or most customizable option available.
Indeed, the MacBook Air offers no upgradeability. The specifications selected at the time of purchase will remain fixed for its lifespan – typically four to five years – or until a replacement is acquired.
However, when utilized appropriately, the MacBook Air proves to be exceptionally valuable. Its lightweight design allows for effortless inclusion in any bag, eliminating concerns about portability.
It functions as a complete, desktop-class computer, providing full access to the OS X operating system and all familiar applications. Furthermore, its ability to maintain sleep mode for up to 30 days, combined with the speed of its Solid State Drive (SSD), ensures remarkably quick wake-up times.
MakeUseOf suggests: Acquire it if frequent travel is a priority.
Currently, we are hosting a giveaway for this MacBook Air. Participation is encouraged, particularly for those who travel extensively. Though, in all seriousness, anyone is welcome to enter!
Securing Your Chance to Win a MacBook Air
Step 1: Completing the Giveaway Entry Form
Participants are requested to submit the giveaway form, providing their genuine name and email address. This information is essential for contacting winners. MakeUseOf giveaways welcome entries from a global audience.
Access to the necessary giveaway code for form activation can be found on our official Facebook page and Twitter feed.
The giveaway has concluded. Congratulations to Sarah Woods, the lucky winner! Those selected have already been contacted by jackson@makeuseof.com. Please reach out before October 20th to claim your prize; requests received after this date will not be considered.
Step 2: Amplify Your Entry
The final step is simple: share this post!
(Please note that sharing does not affect the selection process.)
Entry into this giveaway constitutes agreement with the official giveaway rules.
This promotional event commences today and will conclude on Friday, October 5th. Winners will be chosen randomly and notified through email correspondence.
Don't hesitate to inform your friends and enjoy the opportunity!
Are you interested in sponsoring a future giveaway? We are open to collaborations. Please contact us through the form located at the bottom of this page.
