Glossy or Matte (for programming, documentation)

Hi,
With respect to the MacBook Pro, what is better for software development (programming) and documentation writing? Glossy or Matte screens?
Thanks.

 

I'd go with the matte screen......... less reflection in different environments you might be writing in that could be distracting. The big perk of the glossy is usually in making photos and movies more vibrant/richer, but that isn't going to really benefit you in software dev or documentation writing.

 

i'm a filmmaker and i love those shinny glossy screens.

but for programming and documentation, matte is prob. a better chooice.

 

agreed,

but honestly, don't listen to any of us and just look at the screens for yourself, this is one thing that is always personal preference and completely depends on the person.

some people say glossy is easier on the eyes, some say matte, I don't think you will get a very solid answer from a large group of people.

the best thing you can do is to just look at them for yourself.

good luck

 

I'm a software developer, graphic artist, and musician. I have a matte screen, and I'm glad I didn't get the glossy. I have a hard time seeing things on glossy screens. Guess I just notice the glare more than others do.

Sounds like for you matte is the way to go.

 

Yep I have to agree I much prefer the look of a matte screen.

I'm a software developer and picked up a MacBook Pro today. First time for years I've had a laptop with a matte screen and definitely prefer it.

 

I just got back from my local Apple Store, and they had one of the new matte 15.4" MBP's out. Definitely very nice...... comparing it side by side with the old MBP, it was clearly brighter with whiter whites, blacker blacks, and just brighter and not as dull.

I think the matte is definitely going to be fine for your needs.

 

Are Apple's glossy screens wavy? I have noticed this on other glossy screens. It's only visible in certain lighting, however.

 

I don't notice any waves on my MacBook glossy screen. It's very pretty I just ordered the new MacBook Pro with the matte screen (daughter gets the MacBook). My reasoning - my favorite all time display is a 23" Apple Cinema Display, and I prefer the softer/less glaring look of the matte screen as long as it is bright enough. I find it easier on the eyes and less reflection will be good as well.

My guess is people will be happy with either.

 

apple's glossy screens arent extremely glossy like sony or toshibas. unless you do your programming outside, i dont think it matters which one you get.

i have the glossy screen and i have not had a complaint about reflections...maybe its just that it doesnt bother me at all. either way, both screen are extremely good and with the new LED technology you cant go wrong either way.

 

Yeah, I think this is a good point. I've used a regular MacBook with glossy screen in a library with bright fluorescents directly overhead, and the glare wasn't nearly as bad as I expected it would be..... wasn't distracting while typing, etc.

 

yeah using it outside really becomes the only issue, and even with a matte screen you will get some pretty serious glare from sunlight.

you should be happy with whatever decision you make.