MacBook Pro Mid-2010 13"

This MacBook Pro, the "Core 2 Duo" 2.4 13-Inch (Mid-2010), is powered by a 45 nm "Penryn" 2.4 GHz Intel "Core 2 Duo" processor (P8600). The CPU has two independent cores on a single chip, a 3 MB shared level 2 cache, and a 1066 MHz frontside bus. It comes standard with 4 GB of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM (PC3-8500) as two 2 GB modules, a 250 GB Serial ATA (5400 RPM) hard drive, and an 8X DL "SuperDrive." Graphics are handled by an NVIDIA GeForce 320M processor, which shares 256 MB of DDR3 SDRAM with main memory. The system also includes an integrated iSight camera and an LED-backlit 13.3-inch widescreen TFT active-matrix "glossy" display with a 1280x800 native resolution.

Connectivity options consist of AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, a FireWire "800" port, two USB 2.0 ports, an SD card slot, and a "Mini DisplayPort" that supports an external display at 2560x1600 and also transmits an audio signal. It also features the iPhone-style "combined optical digital output/headphone out" port, which doubles as a user-selectable analog audio line in.

This model is housed in a "Unibody" aluminum case milled from a single piece of aluminum. It includes a backlit keyboard, a new "no button" glass "inertial" multi-touch trackpad, and a non-swappable battery designed for up to 10 hours of use.

When compared to the model it replaces, this version features a very similar external case and connectivity, with the exception of the enhanced audio capabilities of the Mini DisplayPort and an improved trackpad. Internally, the architecture is also similar, with the same bus speed and memory type, but it offers better graphics performance and extended battery life.

Released in mid-2010, this 13-inch MacBook Pro retained the previous generation's Core 2 Duo processor but delivered a notable boost in graphics performance thanks to an upgrade to the NVIDIA GeForce 320M. This enhancement allowed for smoother gaming and graphics work compared to its predecessor, a welcome improvement for many users. The battery life was also significantly extended to a maximum of 10 hours, further increasing its portability. The new multi-touch trackpad with inertial scrolling and the audio-out capable Mini DisplayPort were also key improvements that enhanced daily usability. While the decision to forgo a move to the Core i-series was met with some disappointment, the machine was ultimately praised as a very well-rounded model that balanced graphics and battery performance effectively.