Macintosh Laptops

8 Essential Free Mac Applications

Own a Mac? Here are eight essential free applications that you should know about.

Newsfire (http://www.newsfirerss.com/) - Newsfire is a free RSS reader for Mac users that like to be on top of every news item, podcast, or video that hits the web. There are numerous features that make Newsfire stand out from the rest of the competition including search, grouping, and del.icio.us integration. And if podcasts are your thing, Newsfire has a built in audio plugin that allows for easy export to iTunes.

Adium (http://www.adiumx.com/) - Access all of your instant messenger accounts from one sleek program with the help of Adium. For recent adopters of Apple PC's that may have used Trillian on their Windows PC will make great use of this app. Gtalk, AIM, MSN, and more can all be accessed from one account. No more logging in and out of a program for each IM client.

Temperature Monitor (http://www.freemacware.com/temperature-monitor/) - At the very least, this application is straight up cool. This application makes use of the built in temperature sensors found in most Mac's these days. Find out which parts are overheating from Temperature Monitors clean interface, making it easier to identify performance problems.

TinkerTool (http://www.bresink.com/osx/TinkerTool.html) - TinkerTool opens up preference settings that were once hidden in OS X. Nearly anything you've wanted to customize, but couldn't find the preference settings, are now available to mess around with. If you ever decide you want to go back to factory settings, you're only a few clicks away.

Smultron (http://smultron.sourceforge.net/) - Smultron is essential for code monkeys. Smultron is a text editor with great features such as text coloring that makes coding far easier to write and even easier to decipher once written. If you find yourself lost in line after line of code, Smultron is for you.

ClamXav (http://www.clamxav.com/) - Viruses are far and few between for Mac users, but they do happen! Keep your system protected from those viruses that you haven't had to put up with since you were running Windows.

Perian (http://perian.org/) - I think we can all agree that Quicktime does have its downfalls. The most annoying being codec support. If you are tired of having to hunt down a new codec every time a video fails to play, than Perian is for you. Perian will keep your system updated with all the popular codecs available on the web.

NeoOffice (http://www.neooffice.org/neojava/en/index.php) - OpenOffice, an open source application that rivals the functionality of Windows Office is an amazing program. There's only one problem. OpenOffice can't run on Mac OS X without the help of X11. This is where NeoOffice comes in. NeoOffice is a direct port of OpenOffice, but Mac OSX compatible. Until OpenOffice 3.0 (currently in beta) is released with Mac compatibility, NeoOffice is your best bet.

About the Author

The Apple Laptop Shop specializes in finding used apple laptops, used MacBook, and used macbook pro.

Unboxing: CaseCrown Classic Checkered Messenger Bag-MacBook Pro 13"

Speck Products CorePack Gray Pinstripe MacBook Pro Messenger Bag $58.99 1 Year Limited 1.50" 12" 14" 15" 16.50" 3.25 lb 7" 9.50" CorePack Gray Pinstripe MacBook Pro Messenger Bag Key Leash Fob Shoulder Strap Vented Body Padding Duraflex high performance buckles Extra secure hook & loop and buckled front flap closure Deep well pockets, zippered pouches and plenty of organizers Media player pocket/organizer with headphone cord pass through Dual position shoulder strap buckles wear over shoulder or cinched on back Apple - MacBook Pro With an innovative, dual position shoulder strap and tuck away carry handle, you can wear CorePack messenger style, over the shoulder or briefcase style. This comfortable Bag is large enough to hold a ton of stuff in addition to your 15" or similar sized notebook. With a CorePack at your side, you will look fierce on life's battlefield while your notebook and files stay safe. Carrying Case CorePack CorePack Gray Pinstripe MacBook Pro Messenger Bag Gray NBAG-CORE15-PINGRY Notebook Speck Products www.speckproducts.com

Speck Products CorePack Grayscale Pixel MacBook Pro Messenger Bag $58.99 1 Year Limited 1.50" 12" 14" 15" 16.50" 3.25 lb 7" 9.50" CorePack Grayscale Pixel MacBook Pro Messenger Bag Key Leash Fob Shoulder Strap Vented Body Padding Duraflex high performance buckles Extra secure hook & loop and buckled front flap closure Deep well pockets, zippered pouches and plenty of organizers Media player pocket/organizer with headphone cord pass through Dual position shoulder strap buckles wear over shoulder or cinched on back Apple - MacBook Pro With an innovative, dual position shoulder strap and tuck away carry handle, you can wear CorePack messenger style, over the shoulder or briefcase style. This comfortable Bag is large enough to hold a ton of stuff in addition to your 15" or similar sized notebook. With a CorePack at your side, you will look fierce on life's battlefield while your notebook and files stay safe. Carrying Case CorePack CorePack Grayscale Pixel MacBook Pro Messenger Bag Gray NBAG-CORE15-PXLGRY Notebook Speck Products www.speckproducts.com

Expanded Work_Out Messenger - notebook carrying case $75 Tucano Expanded Work_Out Messenger - Notebook carrying case - 15.4" - black - for Apple MacBook Pro (15.4 in)

17 MacBook Pro Messenger Bag with Free 17 MacBook Pro Sleeve - Promotion Model $28.99 Rated the "Most Versatile Laptop Bag Ever Tested" by macmod.com the Messenger combines the proven protection of the removable 17" MacCase Sleeve with the utility of a lightwe

15 MacBook Pro Messenger Bag with Free 15 MacBook Pro Sleeve - Promotion Model $25.99 Rated the "Most Versatile Laptop Bag Ever Tested" by macmod.com the Messenger combines the proven protection of the removable 15" MacCase Sleeve with the utility of a lightwe

The Messenger $12.49 The Messenger - Masterprint

Messenger $39.99 Elohim Sanchez Messenger - Giclee Print

SUMO Notebook Messenger Bag $56.99 12" 16" 17.1" 19" 2" 6" Notebook - 16" Display Screen Apple - MacBook Pro 17" Display Screen Two under flap pockets Logo reflective strap tabs Padded strap pad included Grab strap for effortless lifting Front and rear exterior hidden zipper pockets Corduroy lined adjustable computer compartment Sumo's Messenger Bag is designed to take what the road dishes out, while giving you a place for all you travel essentials. Built-in adjustable computer compartment will accommodate up to an 17" screen laptop, at the same time you will not find any hook & loop under the front flap, to ensure no one knows when you're opening your bag. Two quick adjustable cam buckles, so whether it's over the left or right shoulder you can adjust the strap to the perfect length without removing the bag. Exclusive sumo camo printed panel and interior pockets for wallet, pens, phone with a printed liner. Ballistic Nylon Black Carrying Case Lifetime ME-SUMO33MBX Mobile Edge Notebook Notebook Messenger Bag Pink SUMO www.mobileedge.com

Targus EcoSmart Spruce Messenger Notebook Case $57.99 13.75" 15" 16.63" 2.06 lb 4.50" Exterior fabric made of 100% recycled polyester PVC-free, nickel-free and recyclable plastic components Case can hold notebook up to 15.6" A perfect fit for the 15" MacBook Pro, the bag not only make a green statement but are fashionable with a sleek black design and green accent stitching. No matter what your preference, there's a Spruce EcoSmart for everyone. Apple - MacBook Pro 15" Display Screen Black Carrying Case EcoSmart EcoSmart Spruce Messenger Notebook Case Notebook Polyester TBM015US Targus Targus Group International www.targus.com

Cocoon CMB352RD Notebook Case - Messenger - Ballistic Nylon - Racing Red $50.99 1 1 Year Limited 1.40" 1.60 lb 1.60" 11.20" 12.40" 12.60" 13" 14.20" CMB352RD Union Square Notebook Case Product ID Card Warranty Card Apple - MacBook, MacBook Pro Transport and comfort are the name of the game for this design that accommodates up to a 13" MacBook/Pro. Ideal for all your travel and business needs, it features a back document pocket and hideaway mini pocket for convenient storage, and your very own GRID-IT! allows you to maximize your personal essentials in this all-purpose bag with adjustable shoulder strap. Ballistic Nylon CMB352RD CMB352RD Union Square Notebook Case Carrying Case China Cocoon Cocoon Innovations, LLC Messenger No Notebook Racing Red www.cocooninnovations.com

Cocoon CMB352BY Notebook Case - Messenger - Ballistic Nylon - Black $50.99 1 1 Year Limited 1.40" 1.60 lb 1.60" 11.20" 12.40" 12.60" 13" 14.20" CMB352BY Union Square Notebook Case Product ID Card Warranty Card Apple - MacBook, MacBook Pro Transport and comfort are the name of the game for this design that accommodates up to a 13" MacBook/Pro. Ideal for all your travel and business needs, it features a back document pocket and hideaway mini pocket for convenient storage, and your very own GRID-IT! allows you to maximize your personal essentials in this all-purpose bag with adjustable shoulder strap. Ballistic Nylon Black CMB352BY CMB352BY Union Square Notebook Case Carrying Case China Cocoon Cocoon Innovations, LLC Messenger No Notebook www.cocooninnovations.com

Tucano Expanded Work Out Notebook Messenger $68.99 1.77" 10.24" 14.33" Apple - MacBook Pro 15.4" Display Screen Notebook - 15.4" Display Screen Messenger bag full of details, realized with durable and resistant fabric in bright, iridescent color. It has an inner laptop compartment equipped with the Tucano Anti-Shock System, Anti-Slip System and "Secure-Fit Pocket", an elastic neoprene pouch that provides protection for your equipment from scratches, to prevent slippage and a well combined solution to store documents in order in the same case at the same time. The Anti-Shock System grants the maximum protection thanks to the extra inner shock absorbing pads that protects against jolts and bumps. The external front pocket offers plenty of space for all the accessories. Extra organized pocket with pouches for pens, cards and more - plus back pocket, quickly accessible , transforming into a convenient passage for trolley handle. Adjustable shoulder strap and quick grab handle included. BEWOMS15-G Carrying Case Expanded Work Out Expanded Work Out Notebook Messenger Notebook Nylon Platinum Tucano www.tucano.com

Melinda Messenger $7.99 Melinda Messenger - Photo

Messenger Boy $49.99 Messenger Boy - Giclee Print

Messenger Boys $24.99 Messenger Boys - Photographic Print

Giant Messenger $24.99 Giant Messenger - Premium Poster

SUMO ME-SUMO33MB3 Notebook Case - Messenger - Ballistic Nylon - Black, Blue $56.99 12" 16" 17.1" 19" 2" 6" ME-SUMO33MB3 Notebook Bag Padded Strap Pad Apple - MacBook Pro Sumo's Messenger Bag is designed to take what the road dishes out, while giving you a place for all you travel essentials. Our built in adjustable computer compartment will accommodate up to an 17" screen laptop, at the same time you will not find any Velcro under the front flap, to ensure no one knows when you're opening your bag. We also offer two quick adjustable cam buckles, so whether it's over the left or right shoulder you can adjust the strap to the perfect length without removing the bag. Grab strap for effortless lifting. Logo reflective strap tabs. Ballistic Nylon Black Blue Carrying Case Lifetime ME-SUMO33MB3 ME-SUMO33MB3 Notebook Bag Messenger Mobile Edge Notebook SUMO www.mobileedge.com

Mobile Edge ScanFast MESFMB2.0 Notebook Case - Messenger - Sorona - Black $68.99 1.80" 11.20" 13.50" 15.50" 16" 17" 19" 5" Apple - MacBook The TSA has announced guidelines that allow travelers with properly designed carrying cases to pass through security checkpoints without removing their laptops. Mobile Edge has responded by creating the ScanFast Collection, each case is uniquely designed to provide an unobstructed security scan of the computer. If you're traveling with your laptop, let Mobile Edge make your trip through the airport faster and easier with the ScanFast Laptop Cases! Black Carrying Case Lifetime MESFMB2.0 Messenger Mobile Edge Notebook ScanFast ScanFast MESFMB2.0 Checkpoint Friendly Notebook Case Sorona www.mobileedge.com

Messenger in the Wind $44.99 Tamayo Messenger in the Wind - Collectable Print

17 Laptop Messenger Bag in Black and Grey $79.99 QNK1012: Features: -Constructed of high density 900D polyester. -Lining constructed of ripstop polyester. -Matching color removable shoulder pad. -Removable and adjustable cyclic strap for bike. -Collapsible rain cover with branded print. -#5 and #8 zippers with branded rubber puller. -Buckles: UTX. -Under flap mesh pockets for coins and keys. -Side mesh pocket for water bottle. -Fits up to 17 and 17 Macbook Pro. -Dimensions: 14.6 H x 17.5 W x 4.9 D.

Booq Boa Nerve S $129.99 Small laptop messenger bag with removable laptop sleeve. Product Material: 1680D Ballistic Nylon Product Weight: 4.10 lbs. Laptop Compartment Dimensions: 13" x 9" x 1.25" Main compartment zips closed to protect from outside elements 1680-denier ballistic nylon exterior with water-repellant coating Removable protective laptop sleeve included Adjustable seatbelt nylon shoulder strap with removable shoulder pad and stabilizing strap Extremely durable water-resistant rubberized bottom Compatible with 13" MacBook Pro and 13" MacBook Air

Built NY A-MS15-GGD Carrying Case (Messenger) for 17 Notebook - Graphite Grid - Stain Resistant - Neoprene, Polyester $89.99 Finally, all of your Apple products can travel safely together as one happy family! The Neoprene Messenger Bag's main compartment fits a 15-inch or 17-inch MacBook Pro, while the middle pocket accommodates a 13-inch MacBook or MacBook Pro. There's also a pocket that custom-fits your iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover, and two additional pockets for your iPhone, chargers, and keys.

Built NY A-MS15-SLT Carrying Case (Messenger) for 17 Notebook - Slate - Stain Resistant - Neoprene, Polyester $64.95 Finally, all of your Apple products can travel safely together as one happy family! The Neoprene Messenger Bag's main compartment fits a 15-inch or 17-inch MacBook Pro, while the middle pocket accommodates a 13-inch MacBook or MacBook Pro. There's also a pocket that custom-fits your iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover, and two additional pockets for your iPhone, chargers, and keys.

CINEBAGS CB-17.9 DIG CAMO 17 LAPTOP BAG $109.95 The CineBags CB-17 Laptop Bag is a waterproof, padded messenger-style computer bag made to hold up to an Apple MacBook Pro 17 or similar size notebook computers. It has sides that are expandable from 4.0 to 8.0 with a zipper. The bag has a front zippered pocket, a pen organizer and a CineBags Key ring. It is carried by a handle or a removable, adjustable shoulder strap with pad.

Case Logic 15 Laptop Sleeve for MacBook Pro $19 Key Features: Fits 15 MacBook Pro Material: Neoprene, suede internal lining Zippered pocket stores power adapter and other accessories Internal pocket stores USB drive Asymmetrical sipper for easy access to laptop

Case Logic 15 Thule Crossover Messenger Bag $62.53 Key Features: Fits 15 MacBook Pro Designed to meet TSA guidelines Crush proof compartment protects iPhone or iPod Mesh magazine pocket Water-resistant nylon Organization panel for accessories Webbing loops adjust bag to size of the load

Case Logic 17 Reversible Slip Case - Neoprene - Brown $19.99 DETAILS: PRODUCT FEATURES:Laptop sleeve is the perfect fit for the 17 MacBook ProReversible - two distinct colors in one great caseCompact laptop sleeve design allows you to safely transport your laptop in any briefcase, messenger bag or backpackDurable, weather-resistant neoprene laptop sleeve cushions and protects your computer Product Description: Case Logic 17 Reversible MacBook Pro Shuttle - notebook carrying case Product Type: Notebook carrying case Color: Cappuccino, sunflower Product Material: Neoprene Dimensions (WxDxH): 16.3 in x 1.3 in x 11 in Weight: 15 oz Notebook Compatibility: 17 Features: Weather resistant Manufacturer Warranty: 25 years warranty UPC: 0085854119726

Case Logic 17 Reversible Slip Case - Neoprene - Green $32.99 DETAILS: PRODUCT FEATURES:Laptop sleeve is the perfect fit for the 17 MacBook ProReversible - two distinct colors in one great caseCompact laptop sleeve design allows you to safely transport your laptop in any briefcase, messenger bag or backpackDurable, weather-resistant neoprene laptop sleeve cushions and protects your computer Product Description: Case Logic 17 Reversible MacBook Pro Shuttle - notebook carrying case Product Type: Notebook carrying case Color: Chocolate, pistachio Product Material: Neoprene Dimensions (WxDxH): 16.3 in x 1.3 in x 11 in Weight: 15 oz Notebook Compatibility: 17 Features: Weather resistant Manufacturer Warranty: 25 years warranty UPC: 0085854119719

Case Logic 17 Reversible Slip Case - Neoprene - Red $159.99 DETAILS: PRODUCT FEATURES:Laptop sleeve is the perfect fit for the 17 MacBook ProReversible - two distinct colors in one great caseCompact laptop sleeve design allows you to safely transport your laptop in any briefcase, messenger bag or backpackDurable, weather-resistant neoprene laptop sleeve cushions and protects your computer Product Description: Case Logic 17 Reversible MacBook Pro Shuttle - notebook carrying case Product Type: Notebook carrying case Color: Smoke, berry Product Material: Neoprene Dimensions (WxDxH): 16.3 in x 1.3 in x 11 in Weight: 15 oz Notebook Compatibility: 17 Features: Weather resistant Manufacturer Warranty: 25 years warranty UPC: 0085854119672

Case Logic 17 Laptop Sleeve for MacBook Pro $30.88 Case Logic introduces the PAS-17 17-Inch Macbook Neoprene Sleeve. Product features Power Pocket for an AC/Power adapter. Plush suede interior protects laptop from scratches. Dedicated, easily accessible pocket to store and protect USB drive. Smart, clean, and sleek aesthetic. Neoprene construction with soft, padded interior that will protect a laptop when loaded into a backpack or messenger bag, or when carried alone.

Case Logic 17 Laptop Sleeve for MacBook Pro $25 Key Features: Fits 17 MacBook Pro Material: Neoprene, suede internal lining Zippered pocket stores power adapter and other accessories Internal pocket stores USB drive Asymmetrical sipper for easy access to laptop

Cocoon CMB352RD Carrying Case for 13 Notebook - Racing Red - Messenger - Ballistic Nylon $42.98 Transport and comfort are the name of the game for this design that accommodates up to a 13 MacBook/Pro. Ideal for all your travel and business needs, it features a back document pocket and hideaway mini pocket for convenient storage, and your very own GRID-IT! allows you to maximize your personal essentials in this all-purpose bag with adjustable shoulder strap.

Cocoon Innovations 13 Union Square MacBook Messenger Sling Bag, Black $49.99 Transport and comfort are the name of the game for the Cocoon Innovations 13" Union Square MacBook Messenger Sling Bag. It is ideal for all your travel and business needs, it features a back-document pocket and hideaway mini pocket for convenient storage, and your very own Grid-It! allows you to maximize your personal essentials in this all-purpose bag with adjustable shoulder strap.<p>

Core Pack Fly Messenger Bag, Restart Grayscale Pixel $89.95 Speck Core Pack Fly Messenger Bag for 15" Laptops: Fits up to 15" MacBook Pro or other laptop Cool, comfortable and spacious Quick-access extra-plush micro-fleece padded compartment Media player pocket/organizer with headphone cord pass-through Tuck-away carry handle and expandable water bottle pocket Convenient detachable key leash fob Deep-well pockets, zippered pouches and plenty of organizers Durable exterior with double-needle stitched bindings Comfortable detachable shoulder strap and vented body padding Duraflex high-performance buckles Extra-secure Velcro and buckled front flap closure Color: Restart Grayscale Pixel

Hex 13 Recon Messenger Bag - Charcoal $79.95 Padded inner storage fits up to 13-inch MacBook Pro : PadPort fits iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover : Interior organizer : Heavy-duty 16-ounce washed canvas shell : Padded front cover flap

Hex 13 Recon Messenger Bag - Khaki $79.95 Padded inner storage fits up to 13-inch MacBook Pro : PadPort fits iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover : Interior organizer : Heavy-duty 16-ounce washed canvas shell : Padded front cover flap

Hex 15 Recon Messenger Bag for Mac and iPad Charcoal $79.95 Padded interior storage that for 15-inch MacBook Pro : PadPort front iPad access fits iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover : Sleek, streamlined design : Interior organizer : Heavy-duty 16-ounce washed canvas shell : Surplus-grade cotton web strap : Padded front cover flap : Rear storage pocket : Genuine leather zipper pulls and smooth zipper mechanism : Reinforced, bar-tacked critical seams : Accommodates iPad and laptops up to 15 : Dimensions 14.3 x 10.5 x 2.2 / 36.1 x 26.7 x 5.6cm : HEX 1-Year Warranty

Hex 15 Recon Messenger Bag for Mac and iPad Khaki $79.95 Padded interior storage that for 15-inch MacBook Pro : PadPort front iPad access fits iPad or iPad 2 with Smart Cover : Sleek, streamlined design : Interior organizer : Heavy-duty 16-ounce washed canvas shell : Surplus-grade cotton web strap : Padded front cover flap : Rear storage pocket : Genuine leather zipper pulls and smooth zipper mechanism : Reinforced, bar-tacked critical seams : Accommodates iPad and laptops up to 15 : Dimensions 14.3 x 10.5 x 2.2 / 36.1 x 26.7 x 5.6cm : HEX 1-Year Warranty

Higher Ground Profile Messenger for iPad and 11 MacBook Air $44.95 Higher Ground Profile Messenger for iPad and 11 MacBook Air

Laurex 15.4 Notebook/Laptop Sleeve - Gold Harley $29.99 This newly-designed nylon with PVC laptop sleeve. Cover is made of durable and water-repellent high quality material and padding protects your laptop. It is user-friendly with pockets for laptop accessories on the back. Zipper pulls from top-left corner to bottom-right, allowing easy access to your laptop from the top or side. Inner lip prevents your laptop from zipper scratches. Metal ring is available on the side The graphical design is pleasing to both the eye and the mind and helps build up your own image. The Laurex laptop sleeve compartment accommodates notebooks with screens up to 15.4 inches. Laurex provides six designs for you to choose. You can use your sleeve by itself or put it in a matching messenger bag from Laurex to carry around. May be too big for 15 Macbook Pro.

Laurex 15.4 Notebook/Laptop Sleeve - Navy Grunge $39.99 This newly-designed nylon with PVC laptop sleeve. Cover is made of durable and water-repellent high quality material and padding protects your laptop. It is user-friendly with pockets for laptop accessories on the back. Zipper pulls from top-left corner to bottom-right, allowing easy access to your laptop from the top or side. Inner lip prevents your laptop from zipper scratches. Metal ring is available on the side The graphical design is pleasing to both the eye and the mind and helps build up your own image. The Laurex laptop sleeve compartment accommodates notebooks with screens up to 15.4 inches. Laurex provides six designs for you to choose. You can use your sleeve by itself or put it in a matching messenger bag from Laurex to carry around. May be too big for 15 Macbook Pro.