Buying m3 vs m7

[fat_smoker]

Hi, I'm unsure which option I should go for. Im not needing any extra space, so the m5 is not an option. The computer is going to be my main computer, coming from a 2010 mbp. The things I use my computer for is school which include excel, word, spotify and surfing, seriously I don't do anything else. Will the m3 be safe for the next 4 years, thinking of the new macOS may need extra power?

I was hoping there would be a mbp announcement during the last event, would make the decision easier. Maybe I should wait to the event i september, but starting school with the old computer is going to suck, really slow and the battery is almost dead. Im able to use the discount and if I buy it before the school I'm going to get the free beats (which will be nice).

Just want some help, my biggest issue is if the m3 will be future proof!

*English is my second language

 

[KPOM]

For the tasks you describe, the differences between the m3 and the m7 will be marginal. That said, don't dismiss the m5 so quickly. Larger SSDs tend to be a bit faster and remain faster over time (as SSDs need some free space to do their periodic internal maintenance). Also, the m5 does give you some of the processor boost you are seeking with the m7, and over 4 years you may well accumulate more data than you think you will today.

 

[BarcelonaPaul]

For the tasks you describe, the differences between the m3 and the m7 will be marginal. That said, don't dismiss the m5 so quickly. Larger SSDs tend to be a bit faster and remain faster over time (as SSDs need some free space to do their periodic internal maintenance). Also, the m5 does give you some of the processor boost you are seeking with the m7, and over 4 years you may well accumulate more data than you think you will today.

Best advice ever there buddy! My experience with Apple is GO FOR THE LARGEST STORAGE OPTION EVERY TIME! I learnt the hard way on my iPhone 16GB and when I first bought a MacBook 6 years ago, I thought that 250GB was huge - well it was until I started downloading HD films etc. For me, the M5 with 512GB all the way! Better to have plenty of space rather than counting the space that you are running out of

 

[SteveJUAE]

You could say there is only a few reasons to buy an rMB, footprint, you want more than a IPad, it's the most up to date model in Apple line up ( which is not saying a lot), you prefer OSX, it's cute and can afford it.

Given your very modest requirements I suspect the average toaster will be capable you need to forecast your computing/software requirements in 4 years time to evaluate what it may hold for you

I'm all for splashing out on style and popular devices but somehow I can't help feel you are a bit mixed up on requirements especially when you throw a new rMBP in November in to the equation

Personally I would always opt for a laptop type device over a mobile OS one, just on pure potential and ease of use in some instances.

If you can afford it then by all means if the rMB is your preferred option but there are many alternatives that may fit all sorts of scenarios of upgrades every year or 2, formats and added functionality etc etc within the same budget

Do you really need a 2016 rMB or rMBP in the 1st instance ? A cheap or cheaper device to swap out in a couple of years to suit your growing need or changes in technology may be wiser

 

[BeatCrazy]

Best advice ever there buddy! My experience with Apple is GO FOR THE LARGEST STORAGE OPTION EVERY TIME! I learnt the hard way on my iPhone 16GB and when I first bought a MacBook 6 years ago, I thought that 250GB was huge - well it was until I started downloading HD films etc. For me, the M5 with 512GB all the way! Better to have plenty of space rather than counting the space that you are running out of

I have now had several computers with ~250GB of storage, and it's not an issue assuming you're not trying to dump all your media on one machine. This is a bad strategy in general. An external drive/NAS/etc. is always going to be a cheaper/more efficient way to store your "downloaded HD movies". For media storage, you're grossly overpaying Apple's SSD upgrade premium when you're just stashing you bootleg Deadpool movie torrent.

 

[Hung_Solo]

It's really just up to your budget. I got the M3 model as my usage is relatively the same as yours (YouTube, Netflix, downloading movies, listen to Apple music, work emails, web surfing). The storage doesn't really bother me as I place most of my music/movies on an external anyway after I get done with them.

I waited for the 2016 rMBP as well but the rMB is so light in weight and I do travel a lot that I fell in love with it.

 

[izzyfanto]

Best advice ever there buddy! My experience with Apple is GO FOR THE LARGEST STORAGE OPTION EVERY TIME! I learnt the hard way on my iPhone 16GB and when I first bought a MacBook 6 years ago, I thought that 250GB was huge - well it was until I started downloading HD films etc. For me, the M5 with 512GB all the way! Better to have plenty of space rather than counting the space that you are running out of

I guess someone needs to store their HD movie collection to be accessible at all times, that's good advice. I only filled up half of my 128 MBA. I also use Google Drive for work, iCloud for personal, iTunes Match for my music library, and if I really need to access that HD movie I remotely connect over the internet to my Time Capsule and pull it onto my MB. It's all about storage management and making sure to back up data. The 256 rMB m3 will be more than enough for this guy. 2 months in and not a single complaint.

 

[evec]

Get M3 if you don't require 512GB.
M7 will not extend your Macbook life, something M3 can't handle M7 also can't because of low TDP,
the CPU can not run so quick in long time.

Also M7 will generated more heat that M3, for the reliability M3 is much better choose.

 

[Queen6]

Save the money stick with the 256 M3 or 512 M5, all the M7 will do is add to the cost, nothing for real-world use.

Q-6

 

[Bananas Ananas]

Hi, I'm unsure which option I should go for. Im not needing any extra space, so the m5 is not an option. The computer is going to be my main computer, coming from a 2010 mbp. The things I use my computer for is school which include excel, word, spotify and surfing, seriously I don't do anything else. Will the m3 be safe for the next 4 years, thinking of the new macOS may need extra power?

I was hoping there would be a mbp announcement during the last event, would make the decision easier. Maybe I should wait to the event i september, but starting school with the old computer is going to suck, really slow and the battery is almost dead. Im able to use the discount and if I buy it before the school I'm going to get the free beats (which will be nice).

Just want some help, my biggest issue is if the m3 will be future proof!

*English is my second language

I just upgraded from low end 2015 MB to 2016 MB with 256GB and M7. I am using computer mainly for Excel and Stata work, and it is quite a bit better experience with M7 than it was with whatever CPU low end 2015 model had. That being said, I don't have comparison point of M3, but unlike others that are saying to go with 512GB model, I'd pick 256GB M7 over it any day, provided that you're sure you won't need extra space. M3 will suffice for the next 4 years too, so might as well save your money and go for that if you're not too reliant on big excel files.

 

[SteveJUAE]

I just upgraded from low end 2015 MB to 2016 MB with 256GB and M7. I am using computer mainly for Excel and Stata work, and it is quite a bit better experience with M7 than it was with whatever CPU low end 2015 model had. That being said, I don't have comparison point of M3, but unlike others that are saying to go with 512GB model, I'd pick 256GB M7 over it any day, provided that you're sure you won't need extra space. M3 will suffice for the next 4 years too, so might as well save your money and go for that if you're not too reliant on big excel files.

I don't think the M7 will help that much with big excel files unless your running 64bit in Bootcamp as you will be stuck with single core performance in OSX is my understanding.

 

[KPOM]

I don't think the M7 will help that much with big excel files unless your running 64bit in Bootcamp as you will be stuck with single core performance in OSX is my understanding.

In single core mode the m7 Turbo Boosts to 3.1GHz while the m3 Turbo Boosts to 2.2 GHz. In dual-core mode the m7 boosts to 2.9GHz vs. 2.0GHz for the m3.

If there are complex macros or really large files (e.g. 1GB) with lots of calculations, it might make a difference, but if these are small spreadsheets such as those used for budgeting or basic math it won't be noticeable. As for loading apps to begin with, there shouldn't be much difference. I believe Apple has several suppliers for the SSDs, so variances between the suppliers may account for more difference than the CPU (and in any case they would be minor).

 

[SteveJUAE]

In single core mode the m7 Turbo Boosts to 3.1GHz while the m3 Turbo Boosts to 2.2 GHz. In dual-core mode the m7 boosts to 2.9GHz vs. 2.0GHz for the m3.

If there are complex macros or really large files (e.g. 1GB) with lots of calculations, it might make a difference, but if these are small spreadsheets such as those used for budgeting or basic math it won't be noticeable. As for loading apps to begin with, there shouldn't be much difference. I believe Apple has several suppliers for the SSDs, so variances between the suppliers may account for more difference than the CPU (and in any case they would be minor).

The OP noted big excel files as you say quite a few variables to consider but if you were struggling with an M3 the bootcamp option exists and as we have seen in scores like Geekbench the multi core results are much higher

 

[Osty]

Best advice ever there buddy! My experience with Apple is GO FOR THE LARGEST STORAGE OPTION EVERY TIME! I learnt the hard way on my iPhone 16GB and when I first bought a MacBook 6 years ago, I thought that 250GB was huge - well it was until I started downloading HD films etc. For me, the M5 with 512GB all the way! Better to have plenty of space rather than counting the space that you are running out of

After all the hate I read on the Gruber thread, it's nice to see we can still act like a decent community.

 

[Trey M]

I agree with others; if you even think you might just need more storage at some point in the future, definitely get the larger storage option and the m5. In my personal experience, I survived fine with a 256 SSD and external storage for years until I needed a VM for work. Had to upgrade my MBP SSD to accommodate this. In this case, it's likely it'll be years, if it ever happens, before we'll see a third party solution for rMB storage upgrades.

As for the m7 vs. m5 debate, IMO it just makes more sense to get the m5. Spring for the m7 if you can get a deal, etc., but honestly in real word usage the difference between the m5 vs. m7 does not justify the price.

 

[monstruo]

Not to hijack the thread since we're on the topic on choices. I'm thinking of getting MB as a secondary machine.

Will be using MB mainly for internet browing and some works (adobe illustrator, indesign, photoshop, captureone pro) on the go. Would M5 be able to handle these tasks? or preferably a M7?

 

[Trey M]

Not to hijack the thread since we're on the topic on choices. I'm thinking of getting MB as a secondary machine.

Will be using MB mainly for internet browing and some works (adobe illustrator, indesign, photoshop, captureone pro) on the go. Would M5 be able to handle these tasks? or preferably a M7?

Similar to my comment in my previous post...The determination of whether or not the apps you listed will run smoothly on a rMB is not going to be dependent on your processor choice of m5 or m7.

From what others have echoed throughout the forum, I believe the rMB would suit your needs fairly well. Though I don't use any of those particular apps, others do and have reported success. However, you may find the 12 inch screen isn't ideal with long term use, or you may just feel it's a little underpowered. I'd suggesting trying an m5 and seeing if you're happy. Apple has a 14-day return policy.

 

[monstruo]

From what others have echoed throughout the forum, I believe the rMB would suit your needs fairly well. Though I don't use any of those particular apps, others do and have reported success. However, you may find the 12 inch screen isn't ideal with long term use, or you may just feel it's a little underpowered. I'd suggesting trying an m5 and seeing if you're happy. Apple has a 14-day return policy.

Well, my primary machine is a rMBP 15" along with a Dell 27" screen.
MB would be use mainly on the go meetings and travels. Just ideal if I could run some of those mentioned apps.

 

[fat_smoker]

For the tasks you describe, the differences between the m3 and the m7 will be marginal. That said, don't dismiss the m5 so quickly. Larger SSDs tend to be a bit faster and remain faster over time (as SSDs need some free space to do their periodic internal maintenance). Also, the m5 does give you some of the processor boost you are seeking with the m7, and over 4 years you may well accumulate more data than you think you will today.

Im coming from a mbp 2010 with 256gb storage, and isn't half full. Everything I do is streaming, spotify and series.

You could say there is only a few reasons to buy an rMB, footprint, you want more than a IPad, it's the most up to date model in Apple line up ( which is not saying a lot), you prefer OSX, it's cute and can afford it.

Given your very modest requirements I suspect the average toaster will be capable you need to forecast your computing/software requirements in 4 years time to evaluate what it may hold for you

I'm all for splashing out on style and popular devices but somehow I can't help feel you are a bit mixed up on requirements especially when you throw a new rMBP in November in to the equation

Personally I would always opt for a laptop type device over a mobile OS one, just on pure potential and ease of use in some instances.

If you can afford it then by all means if the rMB is your preferred option but there are many alternatives that may fit all sorts of scenarios of upgrades every year or 2, formats and added functionality etc etc within the same budget

Do you really need a 2016 rMB or rMBP in the 1st instance ? A cheap or cheaper device to swap out in a couple of years to suit your growing need or changes in technology may be wiser

I have never been into photoshop or anything like that. In the future when I start to work I will have a computer through the job. I need a computer that can do what I describe and in the future it will be just a surf on the couch and traveling buddy. The only thing thats bugging me is "will it be a insane mbp in september with a redesign". I don't think I will use the extra power or extra port. Its just the feeling to buy something old, I knew that they are different computers with different customer groups. Its always fun with new technology.

Save the money stick with the 256 M3 or 512 M5, all the M7 will do is add to the cost, nothing for real-world use.



Q-6

Okey, won't even notice the extra processor?

I don't think the M7 will help that much with big excel files unless your running 64bit in Bootcamp as you will be stuck with single core performance in OSX is my understanding.

Dont handle that big excel files, its more company valuation and school stuff.

I also have one more concern, is 8gb future proof (3-4years)? It feels like 8gb won't be enough in the future, new macOS etc. Have a friend that complaining about his Air is lagging when he updates to the latest OS.

 

[Queen6]

Okey, won't even notice the extra processor?

Probably not Core M is a sprinter and has no active cooling, M7 is faster than the M3, equally only in circumstance where it can exceed the M3, nor can it do this for any significant length of time as it will reach it`s thermal limit and need to throttle down.

Best way to think about is the M7 will give better benchmark numbers, save you no significant time, nor will it add longevity to the system, it will however empty your pocket more and increase Apple`s margin by a decent amount, that`s about it.

I can safely say that I am using my 2015 M5 in a far more demanding role and it deals with the load very well. I opted for the M5 for one reason storage, had I not required I would have purchased the base model.


Q-6

 

[joudbren]

Probably not Core M is a sprinter and has no active cooling, M7 is faster than the M3, equally only in circumstance where it can exceed the M3, nor can it do this for any significant length of time as it will reach it`s thermal limit and need to throttle down.

Best way to think about is the M7 will give better benchmark numbers, save you no significant time, nor will it add longevity to the system, it will however empty your pocket more and increase Apple`s margin by a decent amount, that`s about it.

I can safely say that I am using my 2015 M5 in a far more demanding role and it deals with the load very well. I opted for the M5 for one reason storage, had I not required I would have purchased the base model.


Q-6

+1. Exact same scenario for me (but 2016 version) and so far more than pleased with the M5 performance. I opted for the extra storage as well as I occasionally have to run some business apps in Windows 10 that I run via a VirtualBox VM (VirtualBox is free as an FYI). The extra storage space allows me to give some additional room to the Windows VM without significantly impacting the MacOS side of the 512gb SSD. Cheers!

 

[Queen6]

+1. Exact same scenario for me (but 2016 version) and so far more than pleased with the M5 performance. I opted for the extra storage as well as I occasionally have to run some business apps in Windows 10 that I run via a VirtualBox VM (VirtualBox is free as an FYI). The extra storage space allows me to give some additional room to the Windows VM without significantly impacting the MacOS side of the 512gb SSD. Cheers!

Another aspect for those that sell their Mac`s to fund the next latest and greatest, is additional storage will be more attractive, holding better value over solely the M7 upgrade, especially given the speed that Core M is evolving at.

Q-6

 

[mariotr87]

I bought the m7 + 512GB version mainly because I got a good deal (student discount + free solo 2 wireless beats headphones, which cost £270 in the UK).

The difference price wise with the m5 + 512GB version was £112 I believe (which was roughly 9% more), and I figured it was worth it given that I may very well keep the laptop for a few years.

If you're debating between m3 and m7, I would honestly get the m7. There is quite a difference performance wise when it comes to handling demanding tasks (in short bursts, that is - as we know both cores will throttle eventually). However, if money is a concern the m7 is probably not worth the extra cost vs the m5 + 512GB.

 

[timbals]

If you're worried about resale, then the base model will lose you less money always.

I got an m3 for xcode and it works fine. It's no macbook pro but it is completely usable.

 

[ViktorEvil]

If you're worried about resale, then the base model will lose you less money always.

I got an m3 for xcode and it works fine. It's no macbook pro but it is completely usable.

How does the iOS simulator run on the M3? Any lag?