2014 15in MBP Retina vs. 2017 Models

[ACint24]

Hey there!

I am considering upgrading to the newest models but have no idea if it is worth it or not.

I currently have the 15in MacBook Pro Retina from 2014 with 2.2ghz i7, 16gb RAM and the dual graphics cards.

I mainly use the computer for basic stuff like photos, lots of writing, music, safari etc etc.

I was mainly considering a 13in 2017 but feel like it would be a big step backwards...

Any experts out there? What are your thoughts?

Thanks

 

[john123]

I own the same model as you. Tried the current model, albeit in the 15", and didn't care for it so I returned it.

The 13" would be a step backwards, but not a large one. I think it depends on how much you travel and would therefore benefit from the significantly smaller size.

I'd suggest spending some real time with it in the store. I'd worry less about performance, especially given what you do, and more how you feel about the experience. There are some big changes other than that screen size in terms of how it "feels." Some love those changes and others hate them. It's deeply personal.

 

[Pockett]

The main differences in my opinion between 2014 and 2017 models will be in the physical experience of using the laptop. Further adding on to john123, the typing experience is certainly different since the key travel is a lot shallower. In addition, if you want to continue using the function keys (F1, F2…), you'll need to accept that those are now virtual keys. It's not really an issue for most people, however since you do a lot of writing, it's something that you may want to consider before upgrading to the newer model.

 

[ZapNZs]

I agree with john123 and pockett - the performance between the two 15-inch models would likely be identical for your usage. For that matter, the performance of the 13-inch would probably be about the same as the 15-inch for the stated usage.

If you type a lot and work with photos, the 2017's touchbar, the larger trackpad, the inclusion of Force Touch with the trackpad, and the new keyboard design could all leave you with strong preferences in one direction (some people love these features, some are apathetic, and some despise them.) You may notice an incremental improvement in the display quality. You will definitely notice a big improvement when it comes to the built-in speakers, if you use them for music.

 

[ACint24]

Thanks so much for the great replies! Really helpful!