How do you choose an Apple MacBook?

Are you looking for a new MacBook, but don't know which one suits you best? In this article, we'll explain what to keep in mind. Consider the product series, the size, and the processor, for example. That way, you can find the best MacBook for you.

Choose a MacBook
Pro vs Air
Usage situation
Size
Processor
RAM and storage

Choose Apple MacBook

There are many different MacBook models. The following questions will help you choose the best MacBook for you:

What will you use your MacBook for?
Do you want a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro?
Which size is useful?
Which processor do you need?
How many gigabytes of RAM do you need?
How much storage capacity do you need?

Do you want a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro?

Apple makes 2 different laptops: the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. The MacBook Pro is more powerful than the MacBook Air. That's thanks to the more powerful processors. The MacBook Pro also has a longer battery life and a better screen. You can choose the useful nano display, for example. This screen prevents annoying reflections and light-glare, so you can also comfortably work in bright rooms. You can read which MacBook best suits your usage situation here.

What are you going to use your MacBook for?

Home use

Are you mostly going to use your MacBook at home? A MacBook Air is often a good choice. With this MacBook, you can watch your favorite movies and series, shop your new outfit online, update your accounting, and much more. Are you a gamer? You'll need a more powerful MacBook. That's why we recommend a MacBook Pro for playing games.

School and studying

If you're going to start college, it's important to choose a MacBook that suits you. Make a choice based on your field of study, personal preferences, and your wishes. For example, for studies such as graphic design and photography you need a powerful MacBook model. Do you mainly use your MacBook for text processing and research? The requirements are lower.

Business use

A MacBook is also suitable as a business laptop, of course. Which model suits your job depends on the tasks you want to perform. Do you have an administrative job and mostly work in light programs? You don't need a very powerful MacBook. As a content creator, developer, or design, you need a strong MacBook.

How large should your MacBook be?

Which size you choose depends on your usage situation. Do you edit large video files with a lot of details? A large screen is convenient. If you value compactness, you should choose a smaller size. The MacBook Pro is available in 14 and 16 inches. Do you want a MacBook Air? Choose between the 13 and 15 inches model.

Which processor do you need?

For the most part, the processor determines how powerful and fast your MacBook is. That's why it's important to know what you need your MacBook for. Do you edit 8K videos, develop apps, or play games? We recommend an Apple M4 Max chip. For 4K video editing and creating 3D designs, we recommend the Apple M4 Pro. Do you mostly perform basic tasks, such as browsing and emailing? The Apple M5 or M4 is suitable. With some models, you can also choose the number of central and graphics cores. Read more about this in the article below.

How much RAM and storage capacity do you need?

RAM: multitasking and demanding programs

The RAM determines how many tasks your MacBook can handle at the same time and how smoothly it runs demanding programs. For basic tasks and photo editing, we recommend at least 16GB. We recommend at least 24GB for demanding tasks, such as video editing and smoothly switching between multiple programs. With 32GB or more, you can smoothly perform the most demanding tasks like VR and app development.

Storage capacity: store files and data

The total storage capacity of your MacBook determines how many files you can store on the SSD drive. Choose 256GB if you store a lot on iCloud. If you prefer to store files locally, we recommend at least 512GB. We recommend at least 1TB for storing demanding programs or large files. This way, you can be sure that you have enough storage space.

Article by Rowan

Apple Expert.