Advice on replacing my MacBook Pro

[hod]

I have a 2012 MacBook Pro. Upgraded relatively recently to 16gb ram and a 500gb ssd drive. The machine absolutely flies compared to its pre-upgrade days.

However, it failed to turn on last week, no response at all. Battery fully charged. Diagnosed with corrosion all over the logic board from a past liquid spillage that has eventually overcome it.

It's frequently used to run several apps at once, but no photoshop/movie editing or particularly heavy duty stuff. Large collection of photos and music that are accessed frequently.

My replacement options (I don't intend to repair it owing to there being possible other issues lurking within) -

1. I just buy the exact same model again and insta-upgrade it with my ram & ssd from the previous model.

2. Buy a newer model. Probably the retina with 8gb ram/ 500 ssd. This is about 50% more than the previous option.

3. Wait for the potential new model.

4. None of the above.

What's the best option?

 

[buster84]

I have a 2012 MacBook Pro. Upgraded relatively recently to 16gb ram and a 500gb ssd drive. The machine absolutely flies compared to its pre-upgrade days.

However, it failed to turn on last week, no response at all. Battery fully charged. Diagnosed with corrosion all over the logic board from a past liquid spillage that has eventually overcome it.

It's frequently used to run several apps at once, but no photoshop/movie editing or particularly heavy duty stuff. Large collection of photos and music that are accessed frequently.

My replacement options (I don't intend to repair it owing to there being possible other issues lurking within) -

1. I just buy the exact same model again and insta-upgrade it with my ram & ssd from the previous model.

2. Buy a newer model. Probably the retina with 8gb ram/ 500 ssd. This is about 50% more than the previous option.

3. Wait for the potential new model.

4. None of the above.

What's the best option?

Do you need OSX?

If that's a yes then stick to getting another macbook pro. If you can get away with not having a laptop snatch up a fast 12 core mac pro from the 2009-2012 days.

If money is a problem, either buy the same computer used or buy a new logic board for it if its cheaper than a used one. It really depends on what you really need out of it and whether or not the higher cost isnt a burden on you to get a new one, or wait for the next one. If you want the higher resolution get a used get a used retina.

If you dont need osx and want a newer high end laptop now take a look at the dell xps or zenbooks.

 

[xb2003]

I think the retinas are nicer machines, so I vote upgrade if you have the money. As for the current vs. the next gen, that's different for each person. If you need a machine now, or are like me and value TB2 and USB A, buy now.

 

[MacInTO]

I personally love these machines because of the replaceable components. I think the retina screens are much better. However, the 2012 also comes in a high resolution screen (1680x1050) and that's a good upgrade.

I had a 2012 retina as well but sold it because I ran out of HD space. I had the maxed out version with 750GB SSD.

I replaced that with a 2012 with the high res screen. I always had this screen in previous MacBooks that I owned. I though the 1440x900 screen was awful. However, if you're used to this then it won't be an issue.

If you need a machine right away, getting another 2012 is the fastest way. If your dead Mac is in good cosmetic condition, you could also buy a beat-up one for really cheap and replace the internals if you're good at that sort of thing. There are lots of good used ones for cheap on eBay and other places.

I managed to find a mint condition 2012 with six months of Applecare left!

So I guess my response is # 1.

 

[hod]

Thanks for the replies. I do need a replacement, so waiting I don't think is an option.

My (now dead) MacBook Pro was the non retina one, so I've not enjoyed the retina on a regular basis to miss it. Is there any point buying an older processor/screen? I'm still on the fence - the difference is £500 between the models...

Added into the mix, John Lewis (here in the uk) are including until the end of today a free three year warranty.

 

[T5BRICK]

If the MacBook Pro you are retiring did everything you wanted it to do, I don't see a compelling reason to get a retina model.

Buy the computer that suits your needs and falls within your budget.

I bough a 2015 13" rMBP because the screen is gorgeous and I wanted something portable and I didn't like the keyboard on the retina MacBook. I had the money and it seemed like a good time to buy.

 

[MacInTO]

The other option is buy a used logic board from eBay or elsewhere and replace it yourself if you're good at that sort of thing. They go for about US$400.

 

[wlossw]

Buy a new machine from the refurb store, this will minimize your bitterness when they release a new one 31 days later. All kidding aside, since you need a new machine, get an up to date one (so you don't get left behind on upgrades and support) and spend your energy finding the best deal...

 

[hod]

Thanks for all the replies.

Bit the bullet and bought a 13" retina MBP with the 500gb ssd. Loving it so far!