That is, how many years do you expect your current MBA to last you before you upgrade? Mine is a 2012 base model (i5, 4 GB RAM) and the earliest I will upgrade will be next refresh but if I could get to the 2015 refresh that would be ideal.
How many years do you expect your current MBA to last you before you upgrade?
I replace my MBA every year. However, I always pass my one year old machine to a family member. So... I typically buy them with a 5-6 year expected lifespan for each computer. I just personally get a new one every year (since I pay).
It is a great way to rationalize a technology addiction. It applies to iPhones, iPads, and iMacs too!
/Jim
Which MBA spec do you typically pick up? I need to join your family.
At least 5 years (hopefully 7).
Won't upgrade any sooner than that.
Bought a 2013 Haswell for the 12 hour battery life. It should last a long time and even if over the years it starts to drop down into the 4 hour range I have no issue paying for a new battery replacement if it's needed.
I always buy them fully loaded... i7, max memory, max SSD. I want the machine to remain usable over its intended 5-6 year life. I also tend to switch a fair amount between 11" and 13". There are clear advantages of both, and I am often torn on that decision.
My MBA purchases have been:
2009: 13"
2010: 11"
2011: 11"
2012: 13"
2013: 11" & 13"
The reason I bought two this year is because my daughter (college student) accidentally dropped and smashed her 2010 MBA. This happened after I bought my 13" 2013... and water-falled my 2012 MBA. Hence... she got a new one out of cycle. Now I just have to make sure the family doesn't "learn" this behavior as a method for an early upgrade.
/Jim