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Using a Macbook Pro for Graphic Design

Using a Macbook Pro for Graphic Design

Posted by Team Recompute on 26th Nov 2019

They’re slim, sleek, powerful, and they’re everywhere. Macs have long been famous for their design tools and creative features, and there are no signs of that changing.

Look around you next time you’re working in a public space and check out how many Macbooks you can see. Using a Macbook Pro for graphic design is a no-brainer, and here’s why. 

The Positives

Let's start with the advantages of using a Macbook Pro. 

The Specifications

These specs speak for themselves:

  • The display screen goes up to 15.4 inches, and a 2880×1880 resolution
  • RAM of 8, 16 and 32 GB, although designers and video editors are better placed with 16 GB upwards
  • The storage capacity of 256 GB SSD up to 2TB SSD
  • Processor 2.8 GHz Intel Core i7 or 2.3Ghz Intel Core i9
  • Graphics Card AMD Radeon Pro 555 or Intel HD Graphics 630

Put simply, it’s a powerful tool and can run multiple projects simultaneously. The MacBook Pro consistently comes out on top in reviews looking at the best hardware for graphic design.  

MacBook Pro for Design Screen

The colors on the screen are sharper than what you get on your everyday PC laptop display. Apple uses a proprietary retina display, meaning that the colors look more accurate and sharper.

You’ll get greater clarity and scope when designing and viewing your designs.

Easy to Carry

The MacBook Pro is light and easy to carry, so if you’re working on the go or going from appointment to appointment, it’s a good choice.

The MacBook Air comes with an 11-inch screen, Core i5 processor, MAC OSX, and 128 GB SSD.

Some critics say the Air isn’t equipped for bigger design projects, but if you’re someone whose budget allows for more than one device, it’s still a good option. 

Choice

There’s an entry-level 13 inch i7 2.3GHz Dual-Core model, which is the cheapest option, going up gradually to the 15 inch i9 that we’ve already referred to, which also comes with a touch bar.

Some reviewers say that designers don’t need the touch bar, so it’s one way of saving a bit of money by choosing a 13-inch screen minus the bar. 

The Negatives

Now for the drawbacks...

Pricetag

Apple doesn’t come cheap. Some designers will balk at the cost. However, there are refurbished options out there that will work just as well and hardly loses value.

The MacBook line is the costliest Apple laptop out there, but, as already stated, the smaller versions (12 inches) are not strong enough for creative work. 

Port Options

Typically you get four Thunderbolt 3 ports. These are USB-C connection compatible. It means you may have to use a dongle to connect with more widely used HDMI cables and/or USB-A ports.

Many other laptops offer more port options. However, if you’re set on a MacBook Pro for graphic design, then ensure the one you’re buying has at least two ports.

At least then, you can charge your device while also working with a peripheral device.

Ready to Start Using a MacBook Pro for Graphic Design?

Using a MacBook Pro for Graphic Design is the choice of creatives all over the world. It may be a significant investment, but it’s strength, stability, and longevity go a long way to compensating for the initial outlay.

The most important balance to strike, in our opinion, is to weigh up its storage capacity, its overall performance reviews, and its price. 

Take a look at our online store or pop into our showroom and have a chat about how we can help you!