Advise Needed on New MBA

[kp98077]

I am looking to get a new MBA potentials i want something portable!
I don’t think the macbook is yet updated....
My Ipad is great but doesn’t do everything a laptop can do I just check email, surf web, spreadsheets, view some images, nothing too fancy.... how has the MBA real life. Use been? I life the price point... Any advise would be helpful.. thanks

 

[jpn]

hi
i have been buying successive new models of the MacBook Air since it first came out.
the newest one, the 2018 MacBook Air, is the best.
my stats (maxed out RAM; 512GB SSD):
- about 8 hours of real life, dependable battery life. heavy use every day. most people will get longer.
- not a speed demon of a processor. but certainly more than adequate for yours (and mine) stated uses
- keyboard: best MacBook keyboard ever (this of course will draw the ire of a lot of posters to this forum) but i firmly believe this. bought my machine in Dec 2018, no problems yet. of course only 3 months is not conclusive. this 3rd generation keyboard is not in the MacBook yet. this 3rd generation has great travel. i refused to buy the MacBook because of the lack of travel in the keys in its 1st gen)
- this newest model lost weight. its not as light as the MacBook unfortunately, but it got lighter vs. the older Airs. this was very attractive to me
- macOS are running well on this machine. i can't think of anything that is not working. Continuity/Hand-off, all is running smoothly
- i was disappointed with the level of brightness when i first purchased it, but apple changed the software for the Air in the last macOS update, and the achievable brightness level is now exactly good. before i was hitting the "Increase Brightness function key all the time to make sure it was at its maximum. but now, after the last update i am finding that even during the day the brightness achieved is well within i wanted. well done apple.
- dual USB-C that has both of these ports as simultaneously Thunderbolt 3 capability is amazing
- Headphones port is appreciated.
- this machine is built for overall "average users" (sorry, i know there is no such thing as an average user...).
- apple priced it very well. apple always sets what i call "aspirational pricing" betting on its brand and macOs/iOS working seamlessly with each other. i buy into that proposition 200%.
its worth the price.
- do get apple Care+

recommendation for Airs: always. repeat. always. max out on RAM.

 

[Peepo]

I have MBA 8/256 and works great. Don't need to upgrade to 16GB RAM for a MBA in my opinion, but 512GB storage I would have maybe... reason I didn't is because I got a very good price on mine used.

I have an iPad Pro 256GB 11" also and I would never try to use it as a laptop replacement. MBA works perfect for everything I need to do when I need a computer, and I use MBP for more consumption things.

 

[alvincth]

I am looking to get a new MBA potentials i want something portable!
I don’t think the macbook is yet updated....
My Ipad is great but doesn’t do everything a laptop can do I just check email, surf web, spreadsheets, view some images, nothing too fancy.... how has the MBA real life. Use been? I life the price point... Any advise would be helpful.. thanks

I bought mine with 8GB RAM with 256GB storage. What impresses me is the 3rd ten butterfly keyboard in which each key is bigger and the typing is easier and quieter; Touch ID is convenient and Force Touch is useful in previewing webpages which allows scrolling; battery life is great as well.

I had a 2012 MacBook Air which has only 4GB RAM. For 2018 MBA, the default 8GB is enough for me when I just turn on the webpage management and Evernote app.

I also have 2017 iPad Pro 10.5 (256GB) so it can share some graphic works with my MacBook Air and the latter can be concentrated on some files and notes management.

1.25kg seems not much different from 1.35kg old MBA and 1.37kg MBP, but getting on hand will make one feel more as excepted. The latest MBA is also smaller than the old those while it is still thinner than MBP.

 

[kp98077]

hi
i have been buying successive new models of the MacBook Air since it first came out.
the newest one, the 2018 MacBook Air, is the best.
my stats (maxed out RAM; 512GB SSD):
- about 8 hours of real life, dependable battery life. heavy use every day. most people will get longer.
- not a speed demon of a processor. but certainly more than adequate for yours (and mine) stated uses
- keyboard: best MacBook keyboard ever (this of course will draw the ire of a lot of posters to this forum) but i firmly believe this. bought my machine in Dec 2018, no problems yet. of course only 3 months is not conclusive. this 3rd generation keyboard is not in the MacBook yet. this 3rd generation has great travel. i refused to buy the MacBook because of the lack of travel in the keys in its 1st gen)
- this newest model lost weight. its not as light as the MacBook unfortunately, but it got lighter vs. the older Airs. this was very attractive to me
- macOS are running well on this machine. i can't think of anything that is not working. Continuity/Hand-off, all is running smoothly
- i was disappointed with the level of brightness when i first purchased it, but apple changed the software for the Air in the last macOS update, and the achievable brightness level is now exactly good. before i was hitting the "Increase Brightness function key all the time to make sure it was at its maximum. but now, after the last update i am finding that even during the day the brightness achieved is well within i wanted. well done apple.
- dual USB-C that has both of these ports as simultaneously Thunderbolt 3 capability is amazing
- Headphones port is appreciated.
- this machine is built for overall "average users" (sorry, i know there is no such thing as an average user...).
- apple priced it very well. apple always sets what i call "aspirational pricing" betting on its brand and macOs/iOS working seamlessly with each other. i buy into that proposition 200%.
its worth the price.
- do get apple Care+

recommendation for Airs: always. repeat. always. max out on RAM.

thanks! I got just the 256 ram, I usually only use 100 or so, so why are you recommending the 512? I really don't plan to add much more...

 

[jpn]

thanks! I got just the 256 ram, I usually only use 100 or so, so why are you recommending the 512? I really don't plan to add much more...

i recommend you get the maximum 16MB of memory, not 8.

SSD size should match your long term workflow needs.

 

[Ghost31]

i recommend you get the maximum 16MB of memory, not 8.

SSD size should match your long term workflow needs.

Why on earth are you recommending to pay for more expensive ram when the OP said they don’t do anything fancy?

 

[kp98077]

Why on earth are you recommending to pay for more expensive ram when the OP said they don’t do anything fancy?

Yeah, don’t think I need more ram

Just need to choose between;
1-MacBook air 2018 high end
2-MacBook Pro 2018 w touch are (was on sale skein-$400 Best Buy’s)!making both machine the same price.

 

[Dave245]

i recommend you get the maximum 16MB of memory, not 8.

Why? sorry but the OP stated their use case, it's very light usage and 16GB Ram would be over kill. Even if the OP was doing a little photo and video editing 8GB Ram is a lot for a Mac.
[doublepost=1555832092][/doublepost]

Yeah, don’t think I need more ram

Just need to choose between;
1-MacBook air 2018 high end
2-MacBook Pro 2018 w touch are (was on sale skein-$400 Best Buy’s)!making both machine the same price.

Overall i think the 13" Macbook Pro 2018 is more spec for the money, however if you won't be using that power it's a waste. I have thought about getting the Air or the Touch Bar 13" Macbook Pro 2018, but for light tasks and a little photo editing in Pixelmator, the new Macbook Air is more than enough. If you are going to only be doing those light tasks (which you mentioned in the original post) then the Macbook Air is more than enough for you (in my opinion).

I've learned a few things over the last couple of years, high end specs look nice when you are looking on Apple's website but the reality is if you over spec and spend more than you need to, it becomes a waste of money. It's like buying a racing car but never going over 60 miles an hour.

 

[Ghost31]

Why? sorry but the OP stated their use case, it's very light usage and 16GB Ram would be over kill. Even if the OP was doing a little photo and video editing 8GB Ram is a lot for a Mac.
[doublepost=1555832092][/doublepost]

Overall i think the 13" Macbook Pro 2018 is more spec for the money, however if you won't be using that power it's a waste. I have thought about getting the Air or the Touch Bar 13" Macbook Pro 2018, but for light tasks and a little photo editing in Pixelmator, the new Macbook Air is more than enough. If you are going to only be doing those light tasks (which you mentioned in the original post) then the Macbook Air is more than enough for you (in my opinion).

I've learned a few things over the last couple of years, high end specs look nice when you are looking on Apple's website but the reality is if you over spec and spend more than you need to, it becomes a waste of money. It's like buying a racing car but never going over 60 miles an hour.

hey I remember you asking about the MacBook Air awhile back on here. Did you ever get one?

 

[Dave245]

hey I remember you asking about the MacBook Air awhile back on here. Did you ever get one?

Hi, unfortunately no, i was about to pull the trigger and buy one but i saw the apology statement that Apple ended up issuing over the keyboard issue. In all honesty it put me off, i really do like the new Air, i visited an Apple store last week (i don't have one local to me so i have to visit when i plan a day out or shopping trip with friends) and every time i go into the Apple store i always gravitate towards the new Macbook Air and the new iPad Pro's.

IF Apple end up fixing the keyboard, even if it's just a gen 4 but fixed! i will press the buy button. That is literally all i'm waiting for. Maybe they will update the Mac's at WWDC, Mac Pro gets a big update along side a new Pro display, the Macbook Pro's also get updated and the new Air get's a new keyboard (even if it's a gen 4 butterfly that's fixed the issue) and a small spec bump.

I don't know how realistic this is but it's what i have my fingers crossed for.

 

[alvincth]

Hi, unfortunately no, i was about to pull the trigger and buy one but i saw the apology statement that Apple ended up issuing over the keyboard issue. In all honesty it put me off, i really do like the new Air, i visited an Apple store last week (i don't have one local to me so i have to visit when i plan a day out or shopping trip with friends) and every time i go into the Apple store i always gravitate towards the new Macbook Air and the new iPad Pro's.

IF Apple end up fixing the keyboard, even if it's just a gen 4 but fixed! i will press the buy button. That is literally all i'm waiting for. Maybe they will update the Mac's at WWDC, Mac Pro gets a big update along side a new Pro display, the Macbook Pro's also get updated and the new Air get's a new keyboard (even if it's a gen 4 butterfly that's fixed the issue) and a small spec bump.

I don't know how realistic this is but it's what i have my fingers crossed for.

I think you don't have to worry about it, as even Apple has fixed the keyboard entirely another problem will definitely come. Even I did acknowledge the keyboard and the possible display cable in the coming few years (stage light), I find mine having lid a bit tight to open, and the rubber surrounding the screen is a bit strong. This is the issue almost no one is talking about, unless I search for it.

 

[kp98077]

Honestly, I think you and many are over reacting. I GET the keyboard issue, but if you wait it will be another issue! Its always something! Always.... PLUS apple will stand true to its name and replace the keyboard if faulty... I honestly don't think waiting years for a 'magic fix' will fix anything....

Hi, unfortunately no, i was about to pull the trigger and buy one but i saw the apology statement that Apple ended up issuing over the keyboard issue. In all honesty it put me off, i really do like the new Air, i visited an Apple store last week (i don't have one local to me so i have to visit when i plan a day out or shopping trip with friends) and every time i go into the Apple store i always gravitate towards the new Macbook Air and the new iPad Pro's.

IF Apple end up fixing the keyboard, even if it's just a gen 4 but fixed! i will press the buy button. That is literally all i'm waiting for. Maybe they will update the Mac's at WWDC, Mac Pro gets a big update along side a new Pro display, the Macbook Pro's also get updated and the new Air get's a new keyboard (even if it's a gen 4 butterfly that's fixed the issue) and a small spec bump.

I don't know how realistic this is but it's what i have my fingers crossed for.

 

[Dave245]

Honestly, I think you and many are over reacting. I GET the keyboard issue, but if you wait it will be another issue! Its always something! Always.... PLUS apple will stand true to its name and replace the keyboard if faulty... I honestly don't think waiting years for a 'magic fix' will fix anything....

I’m a writer, I can’t afford to wait for Apple to “stand true” and fix my keyboard, it means going days or weeks without the machine.

The keyboard issue is widespread, it’s not a small issue that MAY happen, Apple even came out and apologised about it. Other issues that may arise are often small in number. I never had an issue with my 2011 MacBook Pro, or my 2012 iMac.

 

[kp98077]

I’m a writer, I can’t afford to wait for Apple to “stand true” and fix my keyboard, it means going days or weeks without the machine.

The keyboard issue is widespread, it’s not a small issue that MAY happen, Apple even came out and apologised about it. Other issues that may arise are often small in number. I never had an issue with my 2011 MacBook Pro, or my 2012 iMac.

Apple apologized for it, because, that is just the type of company they are....the only device I had an issue with is the iPad, post 9 months purchase they just gave me a new one no questions asked... maybe because I had apple care? I am just saying and I am confident most will agree the benefits of an apple machine clearly outweigh the risk especially compared to other companies (such as the piece of crap HP I have for work!)....

 

[Dave245]

Apple apologized for it, because, that is just the type of company they are....the only device I had an issue with is the iPad, post 9 months purchase they just gave me a new one no questions asked... maybe because I had apple care? I am just saying and I am confident most will agree the benefits of an apple machine clearly outweigh the risk especially compared to other companies (such as the piece of crap HP I have for work!)....

Oh I agree that Apple make great devices. Don’t get me wrong I’m not hating on Apple or having ago even, I just don’t want to gamble at this point on something I will be using and relying on for my work every day.
Besides the MacBook Pro will probably be getting updates in a couple of months, which could also mean spec bumps for for the Air.

 

[UKBeast]

Oh I agree that Apple make great devices. Don’t get me wrong I’m not hating on Apple or having ago even, I just don’t want to gamble at this point on something I will be using and relying on for my work every day.
Besides the MacBook Pro will probably be getting updates in a couple of months, which could also mean spec bumps for for the Air.

I dont think there will be an air update soon.

 

[kp98077]

I dont think there will be an air update soon.

yes agree, there will not be an air update.... honestly that air is an impressive machine, having had that and MBP for a few days now its hard to tell them apart.... surprising.... reminder, I don't do video or photo editing.. but get hundreds of emails a day, lots of video review, apps, etc... infant the MBP seems to get really hot underneath...strange! not sure yet which one I will keep....

 

[Dave245]

I dont think there will be an air update soon.

You are probably right. The Air got a BIG update in October of last year. IF however they fix the keyboard, even if it's a gen 4 but fixes the issues i will buy. I'm also interested to see where they take the Macbook Pro next, especially the 13" Macbook Pro with Touch Bar. It's very impressive (to me at least) that they were able to put quad core processors in there.
[doublepost=1555962338][/doublepost]

yes agree, there will not be an air update.... honestly that air is an impressive machine, having had that and MBP for a few days now its hard to tell them apart.... surprising.... reminder, I don't do video or photo editing.. but get hundreds of emails a day, lots of video review, apps, etc... infant the MBP seems to get really hot underneath...strange! not sure yet which one I will keep....

The Macbook Pro is quad core and and Air is a Y processor that is why the Pro runs hotter. If i'm not mistaken the Pro also has 2 fans where the new Air has one.

 

[UKBeast]

Pro has 2 fans. Mba has one.

Mbp touch has 4 cores. Mba has 2.

You will benefit the extra 2 cores in mbp on professional app mainly. It will not have much effect on overall system performance and basic apps.

Mbp runs hotter and is not comfortable on the lap ,while mba is cooler on the lap.

Mba fan is not continuesly working, usually you will be using a dead silent computer while on mbp you will hear it more often as it is optimized for performance.

Both mbp touch and mba are using same keyboard. I have not encounter any problem yet. It is working very fine.

There will be a gen 4 keyboard surely as all parts are seing upgrade as time passes but this does not mean gen 4 will be flawless. There might be different problems.

 

[kp98077]

Pro has 2 fans. Mba has one.

Mbp touch has 4 cores. Mba has 2.

You will benefit the extra 2 cores in mbp on professional app mainly. It will not have much effect on overall system performance and basic apps.

Mbp runs hotter and is not comfortable on the lap ,while mba is cooler on the lap.

Mba fan is not continuesly working, usually you will be using a dead silent computer while on mbp you will hear it more often as it is optimized for performance.

Both mbp touch and mba are using same keyboard. I have not encounter any problem yet. It is working very fine.

There will be a gen 4 keyboard surely as all parts are seing upgrade as time passes but this does not mean gen 4 will be flawless. There might be different problems.

helpful, thanks! yes I am just honestly surprised how warm on the lap the TB MBP 2018 is... I keep thinking something is wrong with mine? while I know the keyboard are the same on the TB MBP 2018 and 2018 MBA they still seem different , also odd to me! and battery drain is much faster on the PRO not to mention the huge charger.. hmmm touch decision here... tough!

 

[Dave245]

Pro has 2 fans. Mba has one.

Mbp touch has 4 cores. Mba has 2.

You will benefit the extra 2 cores in mbp on professional app mainly. It will not have much effect on overall system performance and basic apps.

Mbp runs hotter and is not comfortable on the lap ,while mba is cooler on the lap.

Mba fan is not continuesly working, usually you will be using a dead silent computer while on mbp you will hear it more often as it is optimized for performance.

Both mbp touch and mba are using same keyboard. I have not encounter any problem yet. It is working very fine.

There will be a gen 4 keyboard surely as all parts are seing upgrade as time passes but this does not mean gen 4 will be flawless. There might be different problems.

I don't know if you have any experience with Pixelmator Pro and or Final Cut Pro, but i want my next laptop to run both of those. I don't do a lot of video editing but i do as a hobby, nothing like 4K footage tho. The Air and the Pro are the same screen size (13" versions) the difference is in the specs and price, however i get a discount, for me the only difference is a couple of hundred more for the pro over the Air.

I'm in no rush tho and i will wait to see what updates Apple give the Mac line up this year. I do however hope it's sooner rather than later (i'd much prefer WWDC than October time).

 

[UKBeast]

helpful, thanks! yes I am just honestly surprised how warm on the lap the TB MBP 2018 is... I keep thinking something is wrong with mine? while I know the keyboard are the same on the TB MBP 2018 and 2018 MBA they still seem different , also odd to me! and battery drain is much faster on the PRO not to mention the huge charger.. hmmm touch decision here... tough!

Actually product lines are for different customer targets.

On performance wise;

Mbp>mba>mb

On portability wise,

Mb>mba>mbp

Macbook is completely silent as its fanless design and smaller size and lighter weight.

Mba is in between of two having some from advantages of both mb and mbp. Not as portable as mb and not as powerful as mbp. For casual consumers who wants to do a bit lightweight pro stuff.
[doublepost=1555963833][/doublepost]

I don't know if you have any experience with Pixelmator Pro and or Final Cut Pro, but i want my next laptop to run both of those. I don't do a lot of video editing but i do as a hobby, nothing like 4K footage tho. The Air and the Pro are the same screen size (13" versions) the difference is in the specs and price, however i get a discount, for me the only difference is a couple of hundred more for the pro over the Air.

I'm in no rush tho and i will wait to see what updates Apple give the Mac line up this year. I do however hope it's sooner rather than later (i'd much prefer WWDC than October time).

I dont use pixelmater and video editor so i cant advice. But in the forum i read some people using these on mba air on a lighter scale. But i think are home consumers, nothing professional...

If you want to do this on a professional scale get the pro.

I am using ma office, itunes safari and other system apps. For me mba is quite enough.

 

[Kraizelburg]

MBP simply doesn't have enough room to cool that processor, Apple is chasing the thinner the better so those chip will never get the performance they are capable of.

 

[UKBeast]

MBP simply doesn't have enough room to cool that processor, Apple is chasing the thinner the better so those chip will never get the performance they are capable of.

I dont find a reason why apple is trying to make a slim laptop for professional use ,while you have already mb and mba in your product spectrum.