I recently replaced my 2nd generation MacBook Pro with a new Unibody 15″ model. You have to hand it to Apple, they really know how to make great products even better, I am very happy with the replacement.

I had many concerns pre-purchase due to the glossy screen being the only option. I read loads of reviews and it seemed that just about everyone was complaining about this technology becoming standard, and not just on Apple hardware. In the end I couldn’t bring myself to shell out the huge price jump to a 17″ (with optional matte screen), so I decided to bring on the gloss.

This is a decision that I have not regretted one bit. I am very impressed with the improvements in screen technology since my last model. I have often found that the sheer brightness of the new screens is enough to overpower most screen reflections. The only time this isn’t the case is when the screen is full of black imagery, which happens rarely for me. Having this as my primary work machine means that the laptop screen is my secondary screen, so the chances of any reflections causing issues during my working day are almost non-existent (primary monitor is a 24″ matte Dell). When at home it’s a struggle to find a location that renders the screen unusable. As a test I sat with a sunny window behind me, and set up both the my old and new mac. I admit this was the worst reflection imaginable, however it was a total fail for the matte screen also which dissipated the sunlight and created a white glow across the whole screen. The gloss was no better and no worse in this situation.

Each to their own of-course. How and where I use my computer will differ from you. It just so happens that for me the gloss is no burden at all. With exceptionally clear and instantly bright imagery, it’s two thumbs up from me.