Graphic designer: Do I need an MBP?

[alandor]

I want to ask for advice on what Mac to get for my needs. I usually try to get a computer with high enough specs to last for many years. Currently I’m using a MacBook Pro 15” late 2013 (2,3 GHz Intel Core i7, 16GB and NVIDIA GeForce GT 750M 2GB). I’ve used it for almost eight years and I’ll admit that may be a few years too long but you get the idea.

I work with graphic design and often have heavy InDesign or Photoshop documents to deal with. Sometimes PDFs of up to 2000 pages which has been tough for my current computer to handle. Sometimes there are short movie clips I make in After Effects or 3D design in Blender, but that's only occasionally.

I mostly work with an external 4K screen, but occasionally I need to do graphic design away from my desk and then a bigger screen is welcome. Currently a stationary computer is not an option.

- Even the 13" M1 seems like an improvement on what I have. Do I even need a Mac Book Pro? [EDIT: Sorry I just realized that the 13" is also an MBP, but the question is if that will be enough for me]

- Do I need at least 32 GB unified memory if I plan to keep the laptop for 5+ years?

- Are there other advantages to 16” other than the screen size? Other disadvantages other than the price?

- Finally - is there a risk of supply shortage unless I place my order quickly or do you think it will be fine to wait and read some reviews when they come?

I can afford an MBP 16" 64 GB if it will be what I need for the upcoming 6-7 years. But can't afford to overspend and get more performance than I need if you see what I mean. It hurts to look at that price tag and it has almost made me consider moving over to windows instead (even though I've used Mac for 30 years).

 

[Kierkegaarden]

Considering the work you do, I would definitely suggest the 16”. This would give you good real estate both at your desk and when you’re mobile. So it’s just a matter of deciding on the memory, storage, and M1 Pro vs Max.

I will be working with Sketch, Affinity Suite, Logic, and some video. I was originally thinking base level, but now I’m leaning towards the M1 Max/32GB package. Your work sounds more intense than mine, but I still don’t think 64GB is necessary for you.

I don’t think there is any problem with waiting until you read reviews and benchmarks to help you make a better decision. Dates will probably be into early December, but there is no sense in rushing a decision like this.

I look at this as an investment in myself, and if my needs change, I’ll be perfectly happy to trade in for a different Mac. As a creative professional, you know these are just tools to help us create. That being said, if that tool inspires us to create more and better — it is worth the monetary cost. Hope this helps!