MacBook Pro Mid-2010 15"

The MacBook Pro "Core i5" 2.53 15-Inch (Mid-2010) is powered by a 32 nm, dual-core 2.53 GHz Intel "Core i5" I5-540M (Arrandale) processor. This CPU features a dedicated 256k L2 cache for each core and a 3 MB shared L3 cache. The system supports "Turbo Boost," which automatically raises the processor speed up to 3.06 GHz based on workload, and "Hyper Threading," allowing the system to see four virtual cores.

By default, it is configured with 4 GB of 1066 MHz DDR3 SDRAM (PC3-8500) in pairs, a 500 GB Serial ATA (5400 RPM) hard drive, an 8X DL "SuperDrive," and dual graphics processors: 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 or battery life depending on use.

The standard configuration has an LED-backlit 15.4-inch widescreen TFT active-matrix "glossy" display (1440x900), but was also available with a "high-resolution glossy" 1680x1050 display or a "high-resolution antiglare" 1680x1050 display for an extra 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 new "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 an audio-capable Mini DisplayPort. Internally, it has a substantially different architecture with a faster "Core i5" processor and improved graphics, though it shares the same memory. Battery life is also enhanced.

The Mid-2010 15-inch MacBook Pro represented a significant architectural shift, introducing the Intel Core i5 processor that offered a notable performance leap over prior models. A key innovation was the automatic graphics switching technology, which intelligently toggled between the discrete NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M for demanding tasks and the integrated Intel graphics for better battery life, which was lauded by reviewers. The unibody construction continued to be praised for its robustness and premium feel. While the processor and graphics were clear highlights, some users found the machine could run hot under heavy load. Despite this, the combination of strong performance and excellent battery life made it a compelling option for professionals and a solid desktop replacement.