Apple MacBook Air 13in late 2010

Boots in a flash, but you'll need a lot of cash

And don’t let that 1.86GHz processor put you off either. The new MacBook Air is very snappy. The graphics upgrade and the SSD appear mask any shortcomings the CPU might have for more demanding tasks. Even Windows 7’s performance rating gives it an overall score of 5.3 out of a maximum 7.9. What might put you off, however, is the lack of Ethernet. Sure, there’s an adaptor available, but at this price, Apple really should have included it in the box along with a DisplayPort to VGA adaptor.

Pricey, but undoubtedly speedy

Verdict

Overall, given its diminutive yet robust form factor, the MacBook Air’s performance is quite remarkable. If you’re a film critic, spending hours in the dark, then you may well bemoan the loss of the illuminated keyboard. Yet those with a busy a life or just a bit hare-brained, will find the speed of the Air’s start-up time and near instant-on from sleep to be life-enhancing, albeit at a price. ®

Thanks to Square Group for the loan of the review sample.

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