Another What Should I Get Thread

[mpgolfpro]

Sorry in advance as I know these pop up all the time but I am in need of some advice.

Recently the screen on my MBP (2017 4 thunderbolt, 3.1ghz dual core i5, 16gb 256gb) decided to crap out. I believe Apple will charge me about $700 to replace the screen.

I figure I might as well just get a new computer. In the past I have tended to buy higher spec’d machines than I really need (I think) and now I’m thinking maybe I could get away with something less.

My usage consists of normal web browsing, email, etc. The most intensive thing I do is watch movies, download large files, occasionally edit a video. It’s mainly a media consumption device. I need a laptop as the “file server app” I use for work is only available on MacOS, otherwise I could probably just get away with my iPad Pro.

Which new device should I get? MacBook Air, Base MBP, decent spec MBP, older model Mac, other? Or should I just replace the screen on my current MBP which I was very happy with before? I really just don’t know how much computer I need if I’m not writing code, editing videos and photos, etc and am kinda tired of over spending on Macs I don’t need to.

Thanks in for the advice!

edit....I could wait for ARM also. Don’t HAVE to have a new computer right this min.

 

[mpgolfpro]

Bump....please help!!!

 

[datpricetho]

You may be able to replace it yourself or get a third party to replace it for cheaper. I base level MBA will run you about $1000, a nice 13" MBP will run you $1800 Both will suite your use case fine. If you can get the screen replaced for cheaper I would go that route. But you are unfortunately pushing into MBA pricing for the replacement screen.. Another thing to think about is you can go to the store and buy a replacement and be in business within minutes. Unlike the screen repair. Im not sure how long it takes. Best of luck.

 

[mpgolfpro]

I guess I’m just a little worried about getting a base MBA and it overheating the second I watch a movie on it. Maybe I’ll just suck it up and replace the screen.

A nicely spec’d MBA for 1500 or a refurb MBP is tempting tho.

I have no clue how much computer I really need.

 

[PBG4 Dude]

Go with the 1,299 MBP and upgrade the SSD if 256GB isn’t enough for you. You can usually find it on sale for at least $100 off if you poke around.

 

[jgorman]

I guess I’m just a little worried about getting a base MBA and it overheating the second I watch a movie on it. Maybe I’ll just suck it up and replace the screen.

A nicely spec’d MBA for 1500 or a refurb MBP is tempting tho.

I have no clue how much computer I really need.

If you do not need a new mac now, you could wait to see the new macs that Apple will release at the end of the year. One of the first rumored devices with Apple's ARM chip is a 13-inch MBP, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. He said once this ARM 13-inch MBP releases, Apple will discontinue the Intel 13-inch MBP.

I would replace the screen on your current MBP, or if you want a new mac now, get the $1299 MBP. Playing some videos can cause high temperatures on the MacBook Air, so I would not pick that for mainly a media consumption device.

 

[sixtydashone]

If you are really attached to having 4 thunderbolt ports, then I recommend either getting the 2017 fixed or get the $1799 2020 MBP.

If you can get by with just 2 ports, then probably go with the 2020 base model MBP.

 

[tobefirst ⚽️]

My usage consists of normal web browsing, email, etc. The most intensive thing I do is watch movies, download large files, occasionally edit a video. It’s mainly a media consumption device. I need a laptop as the “file server app” I use for work is only available on MacOS, otherwise I could probably just get away with my iPad Pro.

Is there some other, unmentioned reason you need a laptop, or do you really just need a computer running MacOS? Could you just get an external monitor for the laptop and use it like that until a computer you want comes out?

just giving you something to think about...