2012 vs Feb 2013 vs Oct 2013 Retina Macbook Pro

I am interested in upgrading from my 2010 17" Macbook to a 15" Retina Display. Not sure if the latest model is worth the price difference (looking at Apple Refurb and Used etc).

I know the performance of the lowest spec is enough for me and I don't care about performance too much. Here is what I am looking for:


1. Battery life: How much difference does Haswell make?
2. Screen Reflection: I know none of those have matte but does the new model have low gloss screen?
3. Any other known QC issues with these models to look out for?
4. Will the Haswell model work with my 23" Cinema display with the MiniDvi to DVI adapter that I currently use with my 17"?

Thanks

 

1) In general, not much when discussing the full-voltage CPUs found in the 15-inch models. There are some idle-time improvements, but when the system is under load, the difference is usually within the margin of error when comparing Ivy Bridge to Haswell.

2) This is subjective. I have a "classic" MacBook Pro with the matte screen, and while the Retina machine doesn't have as much glare as the classic's stock glossy display, it's still too reflective for my liking. Your best bet is to go to your local Apple store or authorized retailer and check them out yourself.

3) Though the issue has largely been fixed, some Retina models still suffer from image retention. Check out MacRumors or the Apple Support forum for more information and how to run tests. Versions with the discreet GPU can suffer from throttling, but since you're not looking at those, it's not something with which to concern yourself.

4) You would need a mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter to connect your screen. They're available online for $10 or less. I use a mini DP to HDMI one to connect my MBP to my TV. Works great in both OS X and Windows.

 

also keep in mind that we are starting to see earlier model retinas having motherboard failures, due to thermal stresses.
for this reason I would lean toward the new ones as it is suspected the APM and thermal management are better ( also depends on how heavy your use is as well )

http://forum.notebookreview.com/app...embers-here-have-thermal-gpu-issues-well.html

Saturn answered all the rest very well.

 

Thanks guys, I think it's safe to stick with Oct 2013 model for now. Are there any known issues with those?

 

with the exception of some of us running them way too hot and cooking a motherboard or two, not really.

monor annoyances like the TB ports dropping out, and ridiculous prices for off warranty parts are still there. ( I still wish you could upgrade them )

 

The OP needs to bear in mind that your usage pattern is well beyond what would be considered "normal" for most people buying these machines. Based on what he said in his first post, I don't think he will need to worry about such a problem unless the system came defective out of the box.

The cost for out-of-warranty repairs on Retina machines is definitely a concern, and I would strongly suggest purchasing an AppleCare extended warranty. It can be added at any time during the first year of ownership and can be purchased from any Apple authorized retailer. I got mine from Adorama Camera a couple weeks after purchasing my MacBook Pro for $244, no tax, which is a significant savings over the $349+tax you would have to pay from Apple. Bear in mind, AppleCare does not cover accidental damage, so you would need to either be really careful or consider adding such coverage via a 3rd-party. Mine is covered under a personal items policy from my homeowner's insurance.

 

LoL, I own both and the first thing I could tell is that the 2012 version struggles to play Max Pain 3, while the 2013 version plays it great. granted I think I doubled my ram on both Vram and SDram. Sadly I think alot of the 2013 versions use a LG screen, while the 2012 versions have Samsung Screens.