MacBook Pro Mid-2010 15"

The MacBook Pro "Core i5" 2.4 15-Inch (Mid-2010) is driven by a 32 nm, dual-core 2.4 GHz Intel "Core i5" I5-520M (Arrandale) processor. This CPU has a dedicated 256k L2 cache for each core and a 3 MB shared L3 cache. It also supports "Turbo Boost," which can automatically increase the processor speed to 2.93 GHz based on workload, and "Hyper Threading," which allows the system to recognize four virtual cores.

By default, it is equipped with 4 GB of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM (PC3-8500) in pairs, a 320 GB Serial ATA (5400 RPM) hard drive, an 8X DL "SuperDrive," and dual graphics processors. These are a NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M with 256 MB of dedicated GDDR3 memory and an Intel HD Graphics with 256 MB of shared RAM. The system automatically switches between them for optimal graphics performance or battery life, depending on the application.

The standard configuration features an LED-backlit 15.4-inch widescreen TFT active-matrix "glossy" display (1440x900). Custom options included a "high-resolution glossy" 1680x1050 display and a "high-resolution antiglare" 1680x1050 display for an additional US$100 and US$150, respectively.

Connectivity includes AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, a FireWire "800" port, two USB 2.0 ports, optical digital/analog audio in/out, an SD card slot, and a "Mini DisplayPort" that supports external displays up to 2560x1600 and also passes audio. It lacks an ExpressCard/34 slot.

This model features a "Unibody" aluminum case, a backlit keyboard, a "no button" glass "inertial" multi-touch trackpad, and a non-swappable battery with an 8-9 hour life. Compared to its predecessor, it has a similar exterior but an enhanced trackpad and audio-capable Mini DisplayPort. Internally, it has a significantly different architecture with a faster "Core i5" processor and improved graphics, though it uses the same memory type. Battery life is also improved.

The Mid-2010 15-inch MacBook Pro was a significant update, primarily praised for its transition to Intel's Core i5 processors, which delivered a substantial performance boost over the previous Core 2 Duo models. The introduction of automatic graphics switching between the NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M and integrated Intel HD Graphics was a key feature, optimizing for either performance or battery life. This resulted in an impressive all-day battery life, a major selling point for a powerful desktop replacement laptop. While the unibody design remained a benchmark for quality, some reviewers noted the high price point and limited number of USB ports as drawbacks. Overall, it was considered a fine choice for those needing robust performance in a portable, well-designed package.