11" mba

[Liquinn]

Hi, thinking on buying an 11" MBA. Should I purchase the 2012 or 2011 model? Is there that much difference between the 2011/2012 model or no? Will there be any significant benefits with the difference on buying the 2012 model? I mostly use my computer for web browing; Photoshop; apps etc.

Apple 11 inch MacBook Air (Dual-Core i5,1.6GHz,2GB,64GB Flash,HD Graphics)

I want something more portable than my 13" MBP.

Should I wait for Haswell or should I buy now?

I can get a 2011" Air for £724.00 - is this a good buy?

Cheers.

 

[Abazigal]

$724 pounds doesn't seem that very worth it. You might be better off shopping around for a refurbished 2012 11" air. For a bit more, you get more ram and a faster processor overall.

 

[DOlsson]

I agree, I would try to stay as up to date as possible.

Look around for a 2012 version.

 

[apunkrockmonk]

Don't forget the fact that 2011 only has USB 2 where as the 2012 has USB 3!

 

[moral-hazard]

I had the same debate, ended up buying the 2012 one. Primary reasons:

• Better graphics (HD4000 instead of HD3000)
• USB3 available on the 2012 model
• More memory (can order with up to 8GB)

If you do choose to buy a 2011 model, I'd get one that has 4GB of RAM if possible.

 

[octatonic]

£724 is too much imho given the 2012 model starts at £850.
Student/academic price for the base model is around £720 IIRC.

I'd find a student friend to buy it for me in your situation.

 

[Rob.G]

A HUGE +1 on USB 3. The speed improvement is monumental if you plan to use an external hard drive. If you DO get a 2011, max out the memory and storage at the very least... but I think the 2012 is the better deal, esp if you can get a refurb.

Rob