Macbook pro 13' 2017 or 2016 ? Tips and differences

[tsirik]

Hello There

I am ready to order a Macbook but i dont now what model ?

I am between those two :

MacBook Pro 13.3" 2.9GHz (i5/8GB/256GB) with Touch Bar (2016)
MacBook Pro 13.3" 3.1GHz (i5/8GB/256GB) with Touch Bar (2017)

The differences i think its only the graphics and the cpu performance.

My usage is for Photoshop,illustrator,website development and programing some code..

On home i will work it with a 4K monitor with usb-c connector.

I also want 4 usb ports not only 2 and the touch bar is not something that i need but the 4 port models has it...

Anyway its worth to spend 450€ more, to get the 2017 model ?

What is your suggetions ?

Thanks

 

[New_Mac_Smell]

Nope, no difference. Save the €450 and invest in some hubs/cases/accessories instead.

 

[andy9l]

Same usage as you and I also run a 4K screen (LG 27UD88 USB-C). I recently returned a 2016 2.9GHz for a 2017 3.1GHz (both 16GB RAM) for the better graphics performance - important when you're using a 4K monitor as macOS is horribly inefficient at rendering scaled resolutions. At least as of today.

Under normal usage, there's no huge difference. Based on raw benchmark figures, though, the 2017 models are offering a significant performance jump over the 2016, relative to previous years. Benchmark figures don't equate to real-world differences, though.

The 2016 I had worked fine - if the money is a lot to you, then save it. I doubt you'll regret it.

 

[tsirik]

andy9i Thanks for your reply .

With this money i am planning to buy exactly the lG monitor that you have!!!!

I want it because of the usb-c connectivity at 4k resolution.

So your opinion is i can see the difference on Photoshop ?

Mostly i design webpages and email newsletters..

You think i need this performance ??

Your opinion matters because i want the same setup for the same use as you

 

[andy9l]

andy9i Thanks for your reply .

With this money i am planning to buy exactly the lG monitor that you have!!!!

I want it because of the usb-c connectivity at 4k resolution.

So your opinion is i can see the difference on Photoshop ?

Mostly i design webpages and email newsletters..

You think i need this performance ??

Your opinion matters because i want the same setup for the same use as you

I don't think you'd notice any difference for basic Photoshop usage. Get the 2016 and put the savings towards the LG display.

I went for the 16GB RAM upgrade after continually seeing orange memory pressure in Activity Monitor with 8GB on my previous MacBook. Obviously it depends on your workflow and use case, but I would advise you consider that option as a developer. In the past few years, I don't personally know any developers that have gone for just 8GB of RAM.

Check your Activity Monitor memory pressure graph and make a judgment call.

 

[tsirik]

I don't think you'd notice any difference for basic Photoshop usage. Get the 2016 and put the savings towards the LG display.

I am planning to buy the same LG monitor i dont know what can happen at 8Gb of ram..Also here in Greece we dont have the 16gb model i think...

 

[andy9l]

The 16GB is an upgrade option only available from Apple.com. However, it obviously comes at an extra cost.

Go with the 2016 model - it'll be absolutely fine for your needs.