7 Factors to Consider Before Buying Your First MacBook
If you’re in the market for a new laptop, there’s a good chance that a MacBook will suit your needs. All of Apple’s current MacBooks have a sleek design, an intuitive operating system, and overall excellent hardware.
However, if this is your first time buying a MacBook, there are several things you need to consider before you pull the trigger. From processing power to educational discounts, here’s everything you need to make the right choice.
1. Processor (Apple Silicon vs. Intel)
In 2020, Apple moved away from Intel processors to its in-house Apple silicon chips. Apart from a never-before-seen processing power in such thin, everyday-use laptops, these chips have lower power consumption, unified memory (which is much more efficient), and tighter security. This transition enabled all Apple products to share a common architecture, making it easier for developers to optimize their apps.
While there are still benefits to the older Intel Macs (like installing Windows with Boot Camp), they’re just no competition to MacBooks with Apple silicon in terms of efficiency. So, even if you’re in the used market for a MacBook, opt for the Apple silicon-equipped models.
2. Display Size and Quality
Screen size and quality should be your top concerns when getting a MacBook. While all MacBooks in the current lineup feature Apple’s iconic Retina displays, some are better than others.
The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, for example, featureProMotion displaysthat can support a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Even if you can’t tell thedifference between 60Hz and 120Hz screens, you’ll be more impressed with their mini-LED panels especially if you’re a photographer, graphic designer, filmmaker, or anyone who needs better color reproduction.
As for the screen size, well, that comes down to personal preference. For regular use, you’ll be fine with the 13-inch MacBook Air models. But, for work use, you may have to lean towards the 16-inch MacBook Pro. Keep in mind that the latter will also be heavier and less portable than the MacBook Air models.
3. New vs. Used
This should be a pretty simple decision to make. If you can afford a new MacBook, avoid buying a used one. A new laptop will also be less prone to issues, and you also get a one-year warranty that will cover most issues that pop up. On top of that, a used MacBook may not also be eligible for theAppleCare+ Warranty.
Alternatively,buying a refurbished MacBook from Apple is better than buying a used oneelsewhere. It looks just like new and is overall a trustworthy purchase, with fewer chances of being a fraud or scam. Again, it comes with the added benefit of a one-year warranty from Apple (just like new products). You would even be able to upgrade to AppleCare+ with a refurbished MacBook.
If the warranty isn’t much of an issue to you, buying a used MacBook is not really a bad option either. Just try to buy your MacBook from a trustworthy seller if you’re buying online, and look for the best offer (highest-end MacBook with the lowest price tag).
4. RAM and Storage
When it comes to a MacBook’s performance, you should only care about the processor, RAM, and storage. You’ll want to opt for the highest performance you may get in your budget for the processor. However, the story for both RAM and storage is a bit different.
The base M1 MacBook Air has 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. Admittedly, that’s enough for most students, writers, and everyday users who do not use many intensive programs. The M1 chip is still quite powerful, and the 8GB RAM won’t hold you back by a long stretch.
However, if you are a video editor, animator, developer, or anyone needing more performance, you’ll want as much RAM and storage as possible. In this case, 16GB RAM is the bare minimum, and you can go upwards from there, depending on your budget.
Remember, it’s always wise to maximize your budget and buy the highest-end MacBook you can. Once purchased, you can’t upgrade your MacBook down the line from Apple or third-party resellers.
5. Port Selection
Don’t take ports for granted if you plan to connect multiple peripherals to your MacBook. Both MacBook Air models (the M1 and the M2) only have two Thunderbolt-enabled USB-C ports and an audio jack. And while the M2 MacBook Air features an extra MagSafe port for charging, it still doesn’t offer a wide range of connectivity ports, forcing you to buy additional dongles to extend connectivity.
However, the MacBook Pro models, especially the 14-inch and 16-inch variants, have solid connectivity options. You get a full-sized SD card slot, three USB-C ports withThunderbolt 4, a MagSafe port for charging, and even an HDMI port. So, if you plan to connect an external monitor or transfer files from an SD card, you now know which MacBook to choose.
6. Consider Getting AppleCare+
You will get the AppleCare warranty when you buy a new MacBook from Apple. This is the standard one-year limited warranty you get when buying any new Apple device. However, in the case of MacBooks, you’ll want to go for the AppleCare+ extended warranty, as most people use it for at least a couple of years.
AppleCare+ will give you a peace of mind as you put your MacBook through its paces. Sure, this means paying more upfront, but remember that MacBooks are notoriously difficult and expensive to repair. You can bring such costs down with AppleCare+.
7. Save Money With Education Pricing
If you’re a student in college, you might be able to save money on a new Mac with Apple’s Education Pricing. This special discount is available for university students and staff. It’s also available for homeschool teachers as well. Of course, there is a verification process behind this, so you’ll have to check and see if you are eligible.
With this pricing, you may save $100 on both the M1 and M2 MacBook Air ($899 and $1,099, respectively). You canget Apple’s student discounton iPads too. The discounted prices are not all that staggering, but they’re still generous coming from Apple—a company that charges you $19 for a cleaning cloth.
Make the Right Choice for Your First MacBook
If you’re in the market for your first MacBook, your timing couldn’t be any better. Apple silicon provides excellent performance, every model has a great screen, and the MacBook Pro models are designed with real professionals in mind. Whichever model you choose, you’ll be in for a surprise.
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