More than two years ago, I wrote a blog debating whether to get a new Apple computer or upgrade my old mid-2010 MacBook Pro. I battled with questions: Do I really need a new machine? Should I go for a Pro or an Air? Maybe a Windows device is the answer or even an iPad Pro?
In the end, I didn’t buy a new computer. Instead, I waited just under two years and opted for an upgrade. That decision led to an interesting blog detailing how I changed the RAM, the battery, and the trackpad. That was in July. Now, here we are in mid-November, and I’m writing this blog on a brand-new MacBook Pro powered by the latest generation of Apple Silicon—the M4 Pro chip.
It’s fast. It’s powerful. And honestly, it’s probably overkill for my current needs. But after just a couple of days using this beast, I can confidently say the purchase—and investment—was well worth it.
This isn’t your usual tech review blog; there are already plenty of those. Instead, this is a first impression and comparison from someone making the leap to a new device after many years. Let’s dive into the changes.
Specs Comparison: Then vs. Now
My old MacBook Pro started with just 2GB of RAM, which I upgraded to 8GB. The new device, by contrast, boasts 24GB. At one point, I was tempted to go all-in with 48GB but decided to stick with 24GB and get an additional Apple gadget instead (more on that later).
The old MacBook had a dual-core processor, while the new one has… a lot more. And I really mean a lot. It’s the base M4 Pro model, so if you want the nitty-gritty details, I recommend checking Apple’s website. My first impression of Apple Silicon? Wow. Just… wow.
Form Factor: Slimmer and Sleeker
Placing the new device on top of the old one, it’s slightly smaller, though at first glance, the difference isn’t obvious. Side by side, however, it’s clear the mid-2010 MacBook Pro is bulkier—what Apple might describe as “less thin.”
Screen: A World of Difference
Those bezels on the old MacBook? Enormous. Reducing them on the new model results in so much more screen real estate.
Comparing the displays is like night and day. With the old MacBook at full brightness, the colors look cold and dim. Watching Netflix or YouTube on that screen didn’t bother me back then, but side by side with the new M4 Pro’s display, I can’t help but ask myself: How did I manage for 14 years?
Old Features: Nostalgia vs. Obsolescence
Remember when MacBooks came with CD drives? Mine had one—and it still works! The only CD I ever used was to install Microsoft Office for Mac. That CD hasn’t been touched in years, though, and most modern devices (Apple included) have long since dropped optical drives altogether.
Both MacBooks have an SD card reader. I used the one on my old MacBook maybe once. Now that I have a decent camera, I might use the new one more often… but knowing myself, I’ll probably stick to transferring photos via Bluetooth as my wife does.
Another rarely used feature on the old MacBook was the battery indicator on the side. It still works, but I never really found it useful—likely why Apple left it out of newer models.
Aesthetic Preferences: Black is the New Classic
While I appreciate the classic silver look of older MacBooks, I have to admit I love the sleek, modern aesthetic of the black MacBook Pro. It feels fresh and contemporary while still exuding that premium Apple design.
Final Thoughts
Switching to this new MacBook Pro feels like entering another era of computing. While the mid-2010 MacBook Pro served me well for over a decade, this upgrade has already transformed my experience. My old MacBook cable definitely appreciates the retirement.
It’s not just about performance (though the M4 Pro chip is undeniably impressive). It’s about the small yet significant changes that make this machine a joy to use – from the vibrant display to the refined design to the smooth new keyboard.
If you’re like me, holding out on upgrading for as long as possible, let me tell you: when you finally take the plunge, it’s worth it.
Kindly,
Olaaf
P.S. You served me well, old friend.
P.S.S. TBD, but I will probably write another blog solely about the new MacBook. Most probably after a week or a month of use. Thus stay tuned.
