The 17″ MacBook Pro (Unibody, Matte, Mid 2009) – MC227LL/A is a standout device that brings both performance and display quality to the table. Released on June 8, 2009, with a price tag of $2499, this version of the 17-inch MacBook Pro distinguished itself from the standard model by offering a matte display, which was a highly sought-after feature for professionals working in environments with varying lighting conditions. The 2.8 GHz Core 2 Duo processor and dual graphics cards also ensured that this laptop could handle demanding tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and software development with ease.
Performance: Solid Power for Creative Professionals
At the heart of the MC227LL/A is the 2.8 GHz Core 2 Duo processor, which strikes a balance between performance and power efficiency. Although Core 2 Duo processors are now considered somewhat outdated by modern standards, the 2.8 GHz speed was more than enough for multitasking, productivity apps, and creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, and Logic Pro. Users who worked in fields that required the ability to run intensive programs on a regular basis would have appreciated the power this laptop offered.
For most tasks, this MacBook Pro delivered a smooth experience. While not as fast as current Intel Core i5/i7 or M1/M2 chips, the Core 2 Duo was still capable of performing demanding tasks at the time, providing great value to those who needed a high-performance laptop without the higher price of newer MacBook Pro models.
Graphics: Dual GPU Setup for High-End Visuals
Graphics were handled by the GeForce 9400M and the more powerful GeForce 9600M GT, which came equipped with 512MB of VRAM. This dual GPU setup was aimed at delivering optimized graphics performance depending on the task at hand. For everyday tasks like web browsing or word processing, the GeForce 9400M provided a more power-efficient experience, extending battery life. On the other hand, for more graphics-intensive applications like video editing, photo manipulation, and gaming, the GeForce 9600M GT took over, providing the extra horsepower needed for complex rendering.
The ability to switch between GPUs based on the workload made the laptop power-efficient yet capable of delivering superior graphics when necessary. This was especially valuable for creative professionals who needed the power to render video, design graphics, or work on 3D models.
Storage and Memory: Room for Growth
The 500GB 5400 RPM hard drive provided ample space for storing documents, media files, and projects, but like many computers of its time, the 5400 RPM speed was a bit slower by modern standards. Users looking to boost the performance of this MacBook Pro could easily upgrade to an SSD (Solid-State Drive), which would significantly improve the boot time, data access speed, and overall system responsiveness.
With 4GB of RAM (PC3-8500-1066 MHz DDR3 SO-DIMM), the system provided enough memory for multitasking, and the 4GB RAM could be upgraded to 8GB or more if users required additional performance for memory-intensive applications. These upgrades would ensure the MC227LL/A could continue to handle modern workloads.
Matte Display: Ideal for Professional Environments
One of the most significant features of the MC227LL/A is its matte display. While the standard MacBook Pro models in 2009 came with a glossy screen, the matte version offered a non-reflective, more neutral display surface, making it much easier to work in environments with bright overhead lights or direct sunlight. For professionals working in design studios, offices, or on location, the matte screen was a major improvement that allowed for more accurate colors and reduced glare.
With a 17-inch screen size, the display was perfect for users who needed a larger, high-quality canvas for tasks like photo editing, video editing, and multitasking. The 1440×900 resolution provided sufficient clarity and detail for the tasks at hand, though it may feel a bit limited when compared to the higher resolutions available in modern devices. Still, for the time, it was a beautiful display that was praised for its color accuracy and viewing angles.
Design and Build Quality: Durable and Professional
The unibody aluminum design that Apple adopted for the MacBook Pro lineup in 2008 continued in the MC227LL/A, offering a sturdy, premium construction that was both sleek and durable. The MacBook Pro’s build quality was one of its defining features, and the MC227LL/A was no exception. This laptop was made to last and withstand everyday wear and tear, whether being used in an office, on a shoot, or on the go.
The laptop’s dimensions are 0.98 inches thick, with a weight of around 6.6 lbs, making it a substantial yet portable device. While the 17-inch size and the weight were on the heavier side compared to more compact laptops, the large display and power-packed features justified the bulk for professional users.
Connectivity and Battery Life: Reliable and Versatile
On the connectivity front, the MC227LL/A featured a range of useful ports, including USB 2.0, FireWire 800, Mini DisplayPort, and an SD card slot, allowing professionals to easily connect to a variety of external devices like hard drives, displays, and cameras.
With 802.11a/b/g Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, this model ensured users stayed connected wirelessly, whether in a home office or out on a shoot. The 85W MagSafe power adapter made it easy to keep the laptop charged, while the battery life was rated for around 5-6 hours under typical use, which was fairly standard for a device of this size and performance level.
Final Thoughts: A Solid Choice for Professionals
The 17″ MacBook Pro (Unibody, Matte, Mid 2009) – MC227LL/A was a premium choice for professional users who needed a large, high-performance laptop. Whether you were a photographer, graphic designer, or video editor, this MacBook Pro had the power and features to handle demanding workflows, with the added benefit of a matte display for superior viewing.
Although it’s now somewhat outdated compared to modern systems, its build quality, display quality, and dual graphics cards still make it a viable option for creative professionals or those in need of a solid, reliable machine at a lower cost. With a few upgrades, such as adding an SSD and more RAM, the MC227LL/A remains a great laptop for anyone looking to work on intensive tasks without breaking the bank.
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MacBook Pro MC227LL/A Specs
- Order Number
- MC227LL/A
- Identifier
- MacBookPro5,2
- Model Number
- A1297
- EMC
- 2329
- Processor Speed
- 2.8GHz
- Processors (Cores)
- 1 (2 Cores)
- Processor Type
- Core 2 Duo
- Hard Drive
- 500GB 5400 RPM
- Hard Drive Type
- 2.5″
- RAM
- 4GB
- RAM Type
- PC3-8500-1066MHZ-DDR3-SO-DIMM
- Video Card 1
- GeForce 9400M
- Video Card 2
- GeForce 9600M GT
- VRAM
- 512MB
- Built-in Display
- 17″
- Color
- Silver
- Input
- Multi-Touch Trackpad
- Optical Drive
- 8x DL SuperDrive
- AirPort
- 802.11a/b/g
- Bluetooth
- 2.1+EDR
- Power Brick
- 85w MagSafe 1
- Dimensions
- 0.98 x 15.47 x 10.51 inches
- Avg. Weight
- 6.6 lbs
- Release Date
- June 8th 2009
- MSRP
- 2499