The 13-inch MacBook Pro retina display was recently released. It has been one of the most anticipated products launched by Apple. However, there are many who have trouble transitioning from the standard version to the Retina display. The question is whether you’re ready for this updated model added to the MacBook Pro series lineup. Another point of concern is whether the 13-inch Retina MacBook is better than the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Let’s find out what distinguishes them and how one is better than another.
The physical aspect
When we start comparing the two MacBook Pros, one with a Retina display and one with a 13-inch Pro display, there are noticeable differences. These differences are easy to see at a glance. Let’s start by comparing the weight and size of these two.
The Retina display is without a doubt the best thing to launch in the Pro series. Weighing 1.62kg, this device is relatively thinner and lighter than its predecessor, about 440 grams lighter in comparison. In addition, the size is also smaller at 0.75 x 12.35 x 8.62 inches, which is relatively smaller than the 13-inch MacBook Pro which has a dimension of 0.95 x 12.78 x 8.94 inches. This makes the former thinner by 20%. This means the Retina display is thinner, sleeker, smaller, and lighter. He is better in all physical aspects.
screen display
If we measure the screens of both laptops, they are both approximately 13.3 inches, the diagonal measurement. However, the pixel pitch of the Retina display is much better and realistic compared to the other version. Comparing the two together, we get 2560 x 1600 (4,096,000 pixels) for the Retina display, which is quite impressive compared to 13-inch pixels which is 1280 x 800. This clearly indicates that the difference in pixels is 4 times elderly. This is a big difference from the latest Retina Display technology.
Now we can easily say that the pixel density is double at 227PPI compared to the other one which is at 113PPI. Other things that affect the screen display include the contrast ratio, which is 29% higher on the Retina display, plus it has reduced reflection at 75%. This makes the content screen very visually appealing without any reflection issues and is smooth on the eyes.
ports
The standard version of MacBook Pro has a Thunderbolt port, while the upgraded version has 2 ports. The Retina includes a Mini DisplayPort and an HDMI port for media. However, the thing to notice is that there are no other extensions. The new model does not contain an Ethernet or FireWire port. This may be disappointing for those looking for a device that enables Wi-Fi connectivity or rips data from a CD or DVD or includes video from a FireWire-equipped camera. However, looking at the decline in popularity of FireWire, not including this capability in the new Retina display won’t make much of a difference to a tech consumer.
Storage capacity
The most delicious aspect of the Retina display is the increased storage capacity. The memory capacity is increased or rather upgraded to 768 GB (flash storage) compared to the previous 512 GB. This improvement will have a significant effect on the performance of the device making it relatively fast. However, if you really want to upgrade the memory capacity, you will have to additionally shell out the amount of $1693. Also, the option to upgrade your RAM from 4GB to 8GB will cost you $128 if you plan to stick with the older version, the new Retina display comes with 8 GB of RAM.
price factor
When it comes to the price factor, the Retina display comes at a high price of $2328 as compared to the standard model which is available at $1611. Looking at the price range of these two products, one can consider buying the standard version. However, when it comes to a product that is capable of delivering excellent on-screen display, there is no compromise. For some, though, the extra $725 might be something to consider.
conclusion
In conclusion of all the above, you can easily distinguish a visible difference between the two models. A tech fanatic who is more inclined towards a better or, shall we say, impressive display, with a sleek and modern look, will definitely choose the Retina display. However, for those who are a bit more inclined to get the best deal on a budget, they could go for the standard version. Another thing to note is the optical drive on the standard version. Whichever you choose to buy, the discretion is entirely yours.
