MacBook Pro Mid-2010 17"

The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 2.8 17-Inch (Mid-2010) is a "configure-to-order" version of the 2.53 17-Inch model, also documented separately for clarity. Besides the processor, these two models are identical.

This MacBook Pro is powered by a 32 nm, dual-core 2.8 GHz Intel "Core i7" I7-640M (Arrandale) processor with a dedicated 256k L2 cache per core and a 3 MB shared L3 cache. It supports "Turbo Boost" for automatic speed increases and "Hyper Threading" for four virtual cores.

By default, it has 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 512 MB of dedicated GDDR3 memory and an Intel HD Graphics with 256 MB of shared RAM. The system switches between them automatically for optimal performance or battery life.

The standard configuration includes a 17.0-inch widescreen TFT active-matrix "glossy" display (1920x1200), with an antiglare display available for an extra US$50. Connectivity includes AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, Gigabit Ethernet, a FireWire "800" port, three USB 2.0 ports, optical digital/analog audio in/out, a "Mini DisplayPort" that supports external displays up to 2560x1600 and passes audio, and an ExpressCard/34 slot. It lacks an SD card slot.

This model uses a "Unibody" aluminum case, has 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 an audio-capable Mini DisplayPort. Internally, it has a substantially different architecture with a faster "Core i7" processor and graphics, though it shares the same memory. Battery life is also improved.

The ultimate build-to-order configuration of the 17-inch Mid-2010 MacBook Pro was a true desktop replacement that offered the fastest dual-core processor available at the time. Its massive, high-resolution screen was its greatest asset, providing an expansive workspace for creative professionals. The combination of the 2.8 GHz Core i7, switchable graphics for long battery life, and excellent connectivity including an ExpressCard/34 slot made it a powerful and versatile, if hefty, mobile workstation. For those who needed the largest possible screen and maximum dual-core performance in a portable (though large) package, this machine was the undisputed king of Apple's lineup.