Since my last post I've now spent a great many hours with my new MacBook Air, and I have confirmed my previous thoughts about it. Quite simply, it is an amazing machine. Pound per pound it's the most powerful computer in the world and while it may not be as powerful as a new MacBook Pro, computers are now much, much more capable than 99% of us will ever use, let alone need.

What's great about it?

Instant on.
IPhone like navigation.
Tiny size while maintaining a full size keyboard and trackpad.
Virtually weightless.
Strong aluminum.
Unsurpassed Apple Quality.
No spinning hard disk.

And of course, as with everything from Apple, world-class industrial design.

It's drawbacks?

It is without a firewire port, and I'm one of the few people who use and like firewire.
Its keyboard is not backlit.

Why did I buy it instead of a new MacBook Pro?

There is no point dragging around a big heavy machine when I no longer need the capabilities of the fastest and most powerful of computers. They have now become so fast and powerful that I can't use all of their capabilities.

In my view industrial design is important. We feel good when those things that we spend countless hours with are enjoyable to see, touch, and feel. There has never been a more beautifully designed computer than this new MacBook Air.

Which one did I get?

I got the 13-inch model with the fastest processor and most memory. I added a Superdrive, a 500GB external hard disc, and Microsoft Office. Apple also was kind enough to throw in a new HP printer, I don't need it, but heh the price of zero dollars was perfect!

Would I recommend it?

Yes. Without hesitation to anyone except those who are serious gamers or video editors, those folks might need the power offered by the latest MacBook Pro line.

Beyond my new Air, I notice that Mac now holds about 25% of the PC market, up from about 11% in the darkest days. Things, they are a changin. I'm not though part of that change. My first Apple was an Apple IIc, and I think that this is my ninth Mac. I've never been disappointed or even had one die.

Except of course for the one that the glass of wine spilled inside, but heh, I was able to fix that myself with a handful of replacement parts and some very tiny tools.