Apple claims that with the integrated graphics processor running, the unibody MacBook Pro can achieve five hours of battery life with the screen at 50 percent brightness, productivity apps in constant use, and Wi-Fi operating. This is supported by my field tests. The machine also runs much cooler with the discrete GPU disabled. One battery issue I have identified is a noticeably longer charging time. Apple may have done this to address complaints about heat during charging. While the new charger is a bit smaller, it has the same output.
I have many more findings to pass along, but I've relegated these to detailed pros and cons that I'll share on my Enterprise Mac blog. Each day with the unibody MacBook Pro adds to the list, but that's a testament to the breadth of Apple's changes. There are a few steps backward from last year's model, but these are generally minor. On the criteria that matter most to me -- durability, longevity, flexibility, power efficiency, and ecological impact -- I've yet to come across a mainstream notebook that measures up to the unibody MacBook Pro. Apple's MacBook Pro is still the best notebook you can buy.
