New MacBook Pros offer faster processing, graphics, still too expensive for some students

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Apple is back with an all-new line of MacBook Pro laptops flaunting innovations under the hood since the previous generation’s release.

According to Apple’s website, the new MacBook Pro models can have up to twice the processing speed and greatly enhanced graphical capabilities over previous models.

The new laptops feature FaceTime HD Cameras, which allow users to take snapshots or record video at 720p resolution. The new Thunderbolt input/output port boasts transfer speeds up to 20 times faster than USB connections.

The laptops are available in three different monitor sizes: 13 inches, 15 inches and 17 inches, costing $1,199 to $2,499.

Shelby Township freshman Kayla Rice owns a MacBook, but she said the price of most Apple computers is too high.

“Even regular MacBooks are outrageous,” Rice said. “They’re too pricy for college students to afford.”

She believes the high sticker point comes with reason, however.

“Everyone wants a Mac,” she said.

MicroChips will have the new computers available at a $100 student discount on most MacBook Pro models less than $2,000 and $200 for those costing more.

Rachel Zott also owns a MacBook, but believes that only some Mac users need most of the programs the computers come with.

“I believe Macs are very useful for certain majors, but there are so many programs I don’t need,” the Shelby Township freshman said. “It’s a nice computer, but I would be fine with having another.”

Some computer users on campus have never been fond of Apple’s operating system Mac OS X, including Macomb sophomore Zachary Mazur.

“I think Macs are for people who aren’t computer savvy,” he said. “I built my own PC and it was much cheaper.”