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Surface Book vs. MacBook Pro Laptop

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macbook pro laptop

Microsoft and Apple unveiled computers in 2016 including new Macbook pro laptop. Microsoft targeted the creative professional while Apple is aimed squarely at the mainstream audience. Different visions but alas, whenever are more than one, comparisons will be made. Microsoft took direct aim at the MacBook Pro laptop with its revamped Surface Book so let’s look at the differences. Since Apple did not update the iMac, I will leave off the Microsoft Surface Studio and just compare the MacBook Pro laptop and Surface Book.

Performance

Both the Surface Book and MacBook Pro (13”) have options to choose. Either a 6th generation i5 or i7 processor. The MacBook Pro 15” only has the quad core i7 option. It is interesting that neither Microsoft nor Apple decided to put Intel’s 7th generation Kaby Lake chips inside their respective laptops. On the graphics front, Microsoft decided to put an NVIDIA GTX 965M with 2GB of GDDR5 RAM. While not a slouch in performance, again, it’s interesting that Microsoft decided not to put NVIDIA’s new 10-series cards inside, likely to save costs. Apple went with AMD instead, opting for the AMD Radeon Pro 450 and 460 options. Both the NVIDIA and AMD cards are more than enough for heavy photo/video editing, 3D modeling, and engineering projects but don’t expect to do much triple-A gaming on them…at least not on very high graphics settings. Light to moderate games such as CS:GO, DOTA 2, League of Legends, and even Overwatch are playable at medium settings but higher end games such Doom or Witcher 3 might require reduced graphics settings and resolution.

Display

Whether consumers decide to purchase the Surface Book or MacBook Pro laptop, they’re in for a visual treat. Both computers sport beautiful high end, colorful, dense displays. The MacBook Pro 15 Retina Display has a 2880 x 1800 resolution and 220 pixels per inch (ppi), while the MacBook Pro  13 has 2560 x 1600 resolution and 227 ppi. Surface Book PixelSense display has a 3000 x 2000 resolution with 267 ppi which easily outclasses the MacBooks. However, despite that edge, most people would be hard pressed to see the difference between them. Apple claims the new MacBook Pro laptopscreens are 67% brighter and 25% more colors than previous MacBook Pros.

Design and Features

During Apple’s event, they made a big deal about how much slimmer and lighter than the new MacBook Pros are compared to the previous generation. The new 2016 MacBook Pros are about 20-23% smaller than their previous incarnations while the new Surface Book is about the same as before.  The MacBook Pro 13 is slightly smaller than the Surface Pro but both are still slim and light laptops.

Feature wise, they couldn’t be more different. Apple opted to “future proof” their machines and add four USB-C ports on the 15” model (two on the 13” model). These are the only ports on the entire machine (save for the 3.5mm headphone jack) so any external connectivity to HDMI or USB Type A will need a dongle. The Surface Book has two USB 3.0 ports (Type A), an SD card reader, headphone jack, and mini-DisplayPort. Curiously, Microsoft omitted any USB-C ports. All but the base model MacBook Pros sport the new Touch Bar which replaces the usual row of function keys. This enables the functionality to dynamically change depending on which apps the user is in. While Apple shies away from touchscreen on their Macs, Microsoft embraces it by having a touchscreen display that can detach from the keyboard. The included Surface Pen enables taking notes or drawing directly on the screen.

Price

Let’s just say it. These laptops are super expensive. The Surface Book i7 starts at $2,400 and tops off at $3,300. The MacBook Pro starts at $1,500 for the Touch Bar-less 13” model and goes up to $2,900 fully loaded. The 15” model starts at $2,400 and tops off at $4,300 fully loaded. These laptops may be overpriced to some for what’s essentially outdated CPUs and GPUs. Microsoft and Apple believe their products represent significant value for performance, features, and build quality. Regardless, any serious graphic designer or engineer interested in these products will have serious horsepower to work with. Price probably won’t be a factor.

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1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. DigitalCruch

    September 18, 2019 at 3:36 pm

    Thanks for detailed review. I was just looking to buy MacBook Pro to complete my graphic designing projects. However, after reading this post, I have also become a fan of Surface Book but its price is a little high for me.

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Reviews

Ataman M2R Bullpup Air Gun Review

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ataman m2r bullpup

Air guns are used for pest control, small game hunting, recreational shooting or plinking, and competitive sports. There are several air rifles, but a bullpup weapon stands out. The overall length of the air gun can be significantly decreased without reducing the barrel length. This enables a bullpup weapon to be more easily maneuvered and concealed in tight spaces than a traditional weapon with a similar barrel length. Whether you are an avid air gun enthusiast or a newcomer looking for a versatile air rifle, the Ataman M2R Bullpup can be the best option. In this article, we will explore the unique features of the Ataman M2R Bullpup. 

Ataman is a Russian brand known for manufacturing air guns. The company is famous for developing high-precision weapons for various shooting purposes, including target shooting and hunting. This includes the Ataman M2R Bullpup air rifle, Type 2 Walnut model.

Overview 

ataman m2r bullpup review

With the legendary expertise of Russian gunsmiths, these guys bring distinct details out in this model. It features a Lothar Walther barrel and an ergonomic walnut stock. In addition, the adjustable trigger provides a personalized setup. Overall, the Ataman M2R Bullpup is an ultra-lightweight and versatile air rifle. Learn more about its specifications in the next section. 

The M2R air rifles are a leading product of the Ataman factory. In producing M2R rifles, the company uses barrel blanks from the German brand Lothar Walther. In addition, the energy source of this PCP pneumatics rifle is a high-pressure tank with a volume of 250 cubic meters and a working pressure of 300. The design of the M2R air rifles allows for adjustments in stroke, force, and length.

Ataman M2R Bullpup Technical Specifications 

ataman m2r bullpup

The Ataman M2R Bullpup has advanced features, making it a popular choice for better performance and maneuverability. When Ataman designed this air rifle, they focused on creating a compact, maneuverable option for tight spaces. It’s noticeably smaller compared to other rifles we’ve checked out. The clockwork trigger is a standout feature for its easy customization, providing a match-grade experience, and the built-in pressure regulator ensures your shots stay consistently accurate.

Below are the technical specifications of Ataman M2R Bullpup:

Caliber: .22, .25, .357

Velocity: Up to 980 FPS

Barrel Style: Rifled

Barrel Length: 520 mm

Energy: Up to 55 foot-pounds

Safety: Manual

Loudness: 4-Medium-High

Shots Per Fill: 4

Weight: 3.8 kg. 

Pros: 

  • Ambidextrous walnut stock
  • Lothar Walther’s free-floating barrel
  • Self-indexing magazine
  • Integrated Picatinny rail
  • Built-in air pressure gauge
  • 1-Year Limited Warranty

Cons: 

  • Heavier than other brands
  • Rather loud

What are the Other Leading Brands of Air Guns? 

Here are some favorite options to help you choose the best air gun for your next hunting adventure. 

1. AirForce Texan LSS Hunter Combo

airforce texan lss hunter combo

One great feature of Airforce Texan LSS is its variety of options. Customers can choose among the .45, .357, and .30 caliber barrels depending on their preference and purpose. You also get a scope, air tank, bipod, and other goodies in the combo kit. Plus, it offers a lifetime limited warranty. 

Features:

Caliber: .30, .357, .45

Velocity: Up to 1100 FPS

Barrel Style: Lothar Walther

Energy: Up to 600 foot-pounds

Safety: Automatic on cocking

Pros: 

  • Pressure relief device
  • Adjustable power
  • Two-stage, adjustable trigger
  • Relatively quiet firing
  • Low-effort, side-lever cocking
  • Lifetime Limited Warranty

Cons:

  • Expensive 

2. Seneca Wing Shot MKII Shotgun

This air rifle is customizable to suit the preferences of upland or bushy-tail hunters. Thanks to the weapon’s removable choke, which will reduce the inner barrel down to .486 feet from .494 feet. This feature will enable  a consistent shot stream and a 12-foot spread at 20 yards out.

Features: 

Caliber: .50

Velocity: Up to 1130 FPS

Barrel Style: Smooth Bore

Energy: 245 foot-pounds

Safety: Manual

Loudness: 5-High

Shots Per Fill: 5

Pros: 

  • Removable choke.
  • Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)
  • Single air reservoir (244cc)
  • Built-in manometer
  • 1-Year Limited Warranty

Cons: 

  • This air rifle is very loud.

3. Hatsan Blitz

hatsan blitz

The Hatsan Blitz is a fully-automatic air gun with a pre-charged pneumatic tank. It is among the top choices for full-automatic PCP air rifles. This automatic feature makes it a thrilling experience at the range, providing a Rambo-esque feel. Likewise, it can be effective for hunting coyotes and other small vermin.

Features: 

Caliber: .22, .25, .30

Velocity: Up to 1050 FPS

Barrel Style: Rifled

Energy: Up to 53 foot-pounds

Safety: Manual

Loudness: 3-Medium

Shots Per Fill: 130

Pros

  • Full or semi-automatic mode
  • 1,000 rounds/minute cyclic rate
  • Detachable SwingLoad Magazine
  • Combo 11mm dovetail and 22mm Weaver optics rail
  • Three Picatinny forearm accessory rails
  • Built-in manometer
  • Available in 1-Year Limited Warranty

Cons: 

  • Full auto mode consumes many pellets.

4. Benjamin Bulldog .357 Bullpup 

If you are looking for the best big-bore air gun for hunting, consider this Benjamin Bulldog Bullpup air gun. It is a fine hunting weapon. However, the Ataman M2R Bullpup still stands out in accuracy and versatility. 

Features:

Caliber: .357

Velocity: Up to 910 FPS

Barrel Style: Rifled

Energy: 200 foot-pounds

Safety: Manual

Loudness: 4-Medium-High 

Pros: 

  • Rubber recoil pad
  • 2-stage non-adjustable trigger
  • Picatinny optics and accessory rails
  • Ambidextrous synthetic camp stock
  • 5-Year Limited Warranty

Cons:

  • Loud

5. Umarex Hammer

Umarex Hammer is a .50 caliber big bore air rifle that fires pellets at 700 foot-pounds of energy. Airgun Depot considers it the most potent PCP big-bore air gun. 

Features: 

Caliber: .50

Velocity: Up to 1000 FPS

Barrel Style: Rifled

Energy: 700 foot-pounds

Safety: Manual

Loudness: 5-High

Shots Per Fill: 4

Pros: 

  • 2-round chamber magazine
  • Built-in manometer
  • Weaver/Picatinny optics rail
  • AR Magpul-style grip
  • Accept M-LOK®attachments
  • 5-Year Limited Warranty

Cons: 

  • Requires 550-grain lead pellets for optimal power

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Reviews

99Designs: An Honest Review From a Non-Designer

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99Designs is one of the go-to graphic design services online. It’s a platform full of professional designers that will make branding easier for you. Here’s an honest 99Designs review of the service from a non-designer. 

99Designs: Overview

99Designs is a graphic design service that helps clients connect with various web and graphic designers worldwide. The platform offers the following design services: 

  • Logos
  • Websites
  • Stationary
  • Business Cards
  • Postcards 
  • Posters
  • Clothing
  • Brochures

How Does it Work

#1 Brief Your Requirements

First, you need to create a simple design brief to help graphic designers visualize your requirements. 

#2 Connect with a Designer

Second, you need to choose how you’ll connect with a designer. In99Designs, you have two options: 

  • Work Directly

You can choose to work with a graphic designer directly.99Designs will help you find the designer that matches your preferred design style. This option allows you to review the portfolio and request the designer’s quotes. 

  • Start a Contest 

For this option, you’ll open your design brief to the99Designs community. After that, designers will submit ideas to you, providing you multiple styles to choose from.

#3 Collaborate

Lastly, after choosing your preferred design process, you’ll collaborate with your graphic designer. Once satisfied with the output, you can release the payment securely to the designer. Take note that all copyright and ownership entirely belongs to you. 

99Designs Review: The Pros and Cons

Pros of99Designs

  • Built-in design process 

It guides the non-designers to organize their design requirements. The platform provides questions that help clients define their requirements to help designers visualize what is needed. So if you also have a hard time translating the creative path you want your designer to take,99Designs’ platform will help. 

  • 100% Money-back warranty

99Designs offers a 100% guarantee within 60 days of payment. The warranty is available for all types of contests. However, it does not apply to contests with a guaranteed prize. When we say “guaranteed prize,” it means that the contest already proceeded to the final round. 

  • Estimated quantity of submissions

As you pick a package for your design requirement,99Designs will provide an estimated quantity based on the budget. Each bid will have a fixed amount of price. So, it’s safe to say there are no hidden fees. 

  • Large Marketplace

99Designs is one of the best graphic design services on the internet. Its popularity is evident by the number of bids a client receives on a single project. Although it’s a disadvantage for the designers, as the client, you have more gains. 

Cons of99Designs

  • Limited Options

As you scroll through several design proposals for your contest, you can’t research more about the designers. It’s impossible to dig deeper about the designer’s portfolio, resume or feedback from previous customers. 

  • Misleading Pricing

According to99Designs, “you can set your price.” However, there are minimum prices for each design category. Although the minimum fee is reasonable, the claim of setting your rate as a client is somewhat misleading. 

  • Newbie Designers

There are a handful of people who believe newbie designers often join design contests. For some, this claim is valid, but seniority is not an issue as long as they produce quality works.  

  • Unpaid Efforts

This is the advantage for designers when joining contests. Of course, designers are aware of this downside. However, they often take it as a learning experience. 

99Designs Review: Monthly Plans

The following are the fixed pricing for contest packages. Using the contest option in99Designs, you’ll receive creative concepts from multiple designers around the world. 

Logo Design 

  • Bronze, 30 designs at $299
  • Silver, 60 designs at $499
  • Gold, 90 designs at $899
  • Platinum, 60 designs at $1,299 (Top-level designer entry requirement) 

Web Page Design 

  • Bronze, 15 designs at $599
  • Silver, 25 designs at $899
  • Gold, 35 designs at $1,599
  • Platinum, 25 designs at $2,499 (Top-level designer entry requirement) 

Other Pricing Includes: 

  • 3D
  • Album cover
  • App design
  • Banner ad
  • Book cover
  • Business card
  • Car, truck, or van wrap
  • Character or mascot
  • Landing page design
  • Merchandise design
  • Graphic illustrations 
  • Other Branding assets

Maximizing Your Experience with 99Designs

Here are several expert tips to help you utilize 99Designs effectively:

  • Define Your Vision Clearly: Begin with a comprehensive and clear design brief. The more details you provide about your vision, the better designers can align with your expectations.
  • Choose the Right Engagement Model: Decide whether direct collaboration with a designer or launching a contest fits your project better. Each has its benefits, with direct hires offering personalized engagement and contests providing diverse creative options.
  • Engage Actively with Designers: Whether you opt for a direct hire or a contest, actively engaging with the designers is crucial. Provide feedback promptly to refine designs closer to your vision.

Final Note

In the end, this99Designs review proved that the platform is one of the best graphic design services on the internet. If you’re still contemplating if you need their service, you can explore the99Designs website. However, if you’re searching for a design service that’s perfect for non-design,99Designs is worth considering.

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Business

Graphics Zoo Review: Is this unlimited graphic design service worth it?

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Due to the increased demand for affordable graphic design, various unlimited graphic design services has been popping up online. The graphic design industry expanded, offering more options to clients.

We can say that the scene is more competitive now than ever. However, let’s focus on Graphics Zoo for this article. We weigh in on if their services can keep up with the fierce competition in the “unlimited” section of the industry. 

What is Graphics Zoo?

Graphics Zoo is an unlimited graphic design service that allows users to request designs on a monthly subscription. All clients have to do is create a submission with full specifications of their design requirements.

It’s also best to attach references to help designers take the creative path towards the client’s preferences. The great thing about an online graphic design service is its flat monthly rate, with no added fees for revisions. 

Graphics Zoo Business Model

Unlimited graphic design is a type of business model which allows clients to submit numerous requests per account. After presenting the design preference, expect a 24-hour turnaround or more before you can receive your output. If you receive a design output that’s far from expectations, you can point out the changes you want to make for the revision. Graphics Zoo has a flat monthly rate with no contracts involved. It means you can cancel your subscription anytime without having any legal worries. 

You might also like: Design Pickle VS Penji Review

Graphics Zoo’s Market

The design service is excellent for startups, bloggers, and entrepreneurs. As long as the business needs a continuous supply of custom graphic design, Graphics Zoo is worth a shot. Here are a few examples of companies that worked with Graphics Zoo: 

  • Enicode
  • Bread of Life Inc.
  • Western Rockies Federal Credit Union
  • Perfect Imprints
  • Green Guard

According to their website, Graphics Zoo has more than 750 satisfied customers with at least 50,000 approved projects. It’s also highly rated by their customers, earning whopping 4.9-star reviews. 

Pros and Cons of Graphics Zoo

Graphics Zoo Pros 

  • PROOF management system

Graphics Zoo offers a robust system that provides a collaborative space for designers and clients. It streamlines the whole submission and revision process. Using the tool, the clients can click on any submitted designs to pinpoint areas that need revision. It also allows users to leave a comment to provide more instructions to the designer. 

  • Graphics Zoo offers a stellar project management system that allows efficient communication between both parties. 
  • Brand profile features add accuracy and efficiency per design project. It quickly provides the design’s purpose to designers. 
  • Graphics Zoo offers a comprehensive design selection across various graphic design categories. 
  • The ability to share one account among multiple users is helpful for most businesses.
  • Excellent customer support and design project management system
  • A team of versatile designers that can provide designs for any business types

Graphics Zoo Cons

  • It’s possible to encounter ill-paired designers that are not fit for other project requirements. It might consume time because of countless revisions. 
  • You can only have one ongoing project per day. So if you’re a business with a high design output demand, you should opt for a plan with more designers. 
  • Graphics Zoo’s system only allows you to chat with the designers. If you’re more inclined to video calls, it might be a problem for you. 

Graphics Zoo’s Pricing Plan

Graphics Zoo offers three monthly plans with robust features: 

Business Plan

  • $349 per month
  • All basic features
  • One dedicated designer
  • Additional $349 for additional designer
  • Five brand profiles
  • Three users
  • 14-day guarantee 

Business Unlimited Plan

  • $449 per month
  • Everything included in the business plan
  • Unlimited brand profiles
  • Unlimited users
  • White-label platforms
  • Customized web design service
  • 14-day guarantee 

Agency Plan

  • $849 per month
  • Everything included in previous plans
  • Two dedicated designer
  • 30-day guarantee 
  • When starting a project with GraphicsZoo, making the most of their streamlined and user-friendly platform is crucial. Here are some key strategies for a successful collaboration:
  • Use Slack for direct communication with your designer. This allows for instant feedback and praise, ensuring clear and efficient revisions or approvals.
  • Prioritize clear and detailed communication. Never assume your designer has implicit understanding of your needs. Be explicit in your project briefs, and don’t hesitate to share comprehensive information about your brand and objectives.
  • Remember, effective communication is as vital with your design team as it is in any other part of your business. The clarity and detail of your interactions can significantly influence whether the final design meets your expectations or falls short.
  • By following these guidelines, you can foster a more productive and satisfying partnership with GraphicsZoo, leading to designs that perfectly embody your vision.

Tips for GraphicsZoo Users

When starting a project with GraphicsZoo, making the most of their streamlined and user-friendly platform is crucial. Here are some key strategies for a successful collaboration:

  • Use Slack for direct communication with your designer. This allows for instant feedback, ensuring clear and efficient revisions.
  • Prioritize clear and detailed communication. Never assume your designer has implicit understanding of your needs. Be explicit in your project briefs, and don’t hesitate to share comprehensive information about your brand and objectives.


Other Unlimited Graphic Design Companies

If you’re looking for more options with a similar business model as Graphics Zoo, we did the work for you. Here is our full list of unlimited graphic design services.

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