MacBook Pro Early 2008

The MacBook Pro "Core 2 Duo" 2.6 15-Inch (Early 2008/Penryn) is a build-to-order configuration of the 2.5 15-Inch model, documented separately for convenience. Besides the processor, the two models are identical.

This Apple MacBook Pro model features a 45 nm "Penryn" 2.6 GHz "Core 2 Duo" processor (T9500) with two independent cores and a 6 MB shared level 2 cache. It has an 800 MHz frontside bus, 2.0 GB of 667 MHz PC2-5300 DDR2 SDRAM, a 250 GB (5400 RPM) hard drive with "Sudden Motion Sensor" technology, and an 8X dual-layer DVD±RW/CD-RW SuperDrive. It also includes an NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT graphics processor with 512 MB of GDDR3 SDRAM and dual-link DVI functionality, driving an antiglare LED-backlit 15.4-inch widescreen 1440x900 active-matrix display, with a glossy option available via build-to-order.

Externally, the 15-Inch "Early 2008/Penryn" MacBook Pro models are practically identical to the preceding "Mid-2007/Santa Rosa" systems, with the exception of the keyboard and trackpad. The keyboard retains "ambient lighting" but omits the "embedded numeric keypad," replaces the enter key next to the right-hand "command" key with a second option key, and has a different function key layout. The trackpad adds "multi-touch gesturing" support. The "MagSafe" power connector and iSight camera are still included, but the Apple Remote became a US$19 extra.

Connectivity is also unchanged, featuring an ExpressCard/34 slot, AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Gigabit Ethernet, FireWire "400" and "800" ports, two USB 2.0 ports, optical digital audio in/out, and DVI out, with Bluetooth upgraded to the 2.1+EDR standard.

Internally, the "Early 2008/Penryn" models use slightly faster and more power-efficient 45 nm "Penryn" processors compared to the 65 nm "Merom" chips in the "Mid-2007 Santa Rosa" series. They boast larger 6 MB L2 caches (on 2.5 GHz and faster models), more video memory (256 MB or 512 MB vs. 128 MB or 256 MB), and larger standard hard drives.

Offered as a build-to-order option in early 2008, this 2.6 GHz model boasted the pinnacle of performance in the MacBook Pro lineup of its time. The 45nm Penryn processor and 6MB L2 cache provided smooth operation even for professional tasks. The trackpad, which inherited multi-touch gesture support from the MacBook Air, was particularly well-regarded, with its intuitive operation significantly boosting productivity. Battery life was also improved, further enhancing the balance between portability and performance. While there were no major changes to its exterior, the steady evolution of its internal architecture earned it high praise as a machine that met the expectations of professional users.