When it comes to computer hardware, there is arguably no more iconic device than the MacBook.
Its sleek and stylish design makes it a popular choice among students, professionals, and creative types alike.
But before you rush out to purchase one of these impressive machines, there are a few things you should know first.
1. Budget –
The price of MacBooks can vary greatly depending on which model and features you select.
Before committing to a purchase, take a moment to review your budget and determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on your new laptop.
2. Warranty Coverage –
Look into what type of warranty coverage options exist for any given unit before making a final purchasing decision.
Most manufacturers offer anywhere from 1 to 3 years of coverage depending upon the version/tier level chosen by the customer. There is Applecare Plus. Learning about what is Applecare Plus and whether it is worth it is a reasonable idea.
Finally, certain retail stores will also occasionally provide their own extended service plans, so don’t forget to check those, either.
3. Operating System –
All new MacBook models come pre-installed with the latest macOS version.
If you’re accustomed to Windows or Linux-based systems, switching over may require some adjustment time as well as additional software purchases in order to utilize your current applications on Apple’s computer.
4. Processor –
You will likely want to choose a model with an Intel processor for optimal performance when running multiple applications or playing video games.
Models with lower-specification processors may be cheaper, but they won’t be able to handle more strenuous tasks as efficiently as Intel-powered models would.
5. Memory –
Most modern laptops come equipped with at least 8GB RAM (Random Access Memory), although you can usually opt for 16GB if needed for more demanding tasks such as multimedia editing or gaming purposes.
6. Storage Space –
Internal storage capacity ranges from 256GB all the way up to 23TB (Terabyte) on higher-end models, so make sure you factor in how much storage space you need when picking out your machine.
Otherwise, you might soon find yourself running out of space if storing lots of large files, such as photos or videos, locally on your device.
7. Battery Life –
Depending on the usage habits of the user, some models offer better battery life than others due to their power efficiency ratings.
Look for something that offers at least 8 hours per charge, if possible, so that you have enough juice left over for extended work sessions outside of the home or office space without needing frequent recharging stops.
8. Display Size & Resolution –
Newer MacBooks come with either Retina displays (2560 x 1600) or Ultra HD displays (3840 x 2160). Confirm that whatever display size and resolution you choose matches up with the content that will be viewed most frequently.
Lower res screens won’t do justice when viewing movies or graphics-heavy websites, while ultra HD displays will require increased battery power drain, so keep this in mind when making your selection.
9. Connectivity Options –
Most laptops have Wi-Fi support, but not all offer cellular connectivity options such as LTE/5G data transfer speeds.
This could be beneficial if portability is important and no nearby Wi-Fi networks are available during travel times.
Also, take note of any USB ports included within the laptop itself, which could help extend usability even further when connecting external accessories like printers or webcams.
10. Weight –
If mobility is key, opting for one of the lighter-weight models might be best; many entry-level notebooks tend towards 2-3 lbs, whereas some high-end machines can weigh 4+ lbs, depending on the construction materials used during manufacturing.
11. Keyboard Quality –
Not all keyboards are created equal; ensure whatever model you choose has tactile feedback keys, which help improve typing accuracy and comfort levels while also reducing typos over long sessions.
Some newer models even feature backlit keys, providing better visibility during low-light conditions.
12. Graphics Dedicated vs. Integrated –
Depending upon intended use cases, potential buyers should research what type of graphics chipset is used in any particular model under consideration.
Integrated graphics are more power efficient but may not provide enough power for certain types of demanding applications such as gaming and video editing.
13. Durability –
For those who plan on traveling a lot, it is worth researching how robust each unit’s build quality really is.
Quite a few entry-level machines rely heavily on plastic chassis designs, whereas higher-end models often include other premium materials like magnesium alloy and carbon fiber, which help improve durability and protect against any minor wear and tear items.
