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Gsam

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Aug 28, 2018
2
0
Hello!
I would like to buy a MacBook but I don’t know what MacBook to choose...
I’ll use the laptop only for browsing, MS Office, watching movies, light C++ programming and mainly for college tasks.
I really want to buy a MacBook Air because I love the design. I know that this machine is not very powerful but I’m wondering if it will handle these tasks smoothly.
I’m also considering buying a MacBook Pro but the models newer than 2014 are a bit pricey.
I’m also concerned about the screen. Will 13” be enough?
So, is a MacBook Pro/Air from 2013-2014 still useable in 2018 and 3-4 more years? (I am looking for used Macbooks because my budget is limited)
Thank you very much!!
*Sorry for my bad english, english is not my native language*
 
The 13" Air from 2013 to 2017 are basically identical machines with two differences:

  1. early 2015 to 2017 models use Intel HD6000 instead of HD5000 graphics; and
  2. mid-2013 to 2014 models use an Intel Haswell CPU while early 2015 to 2017 use Broadwell processors.
All internal components from the 13" mid-2013 to 2017 and completely interchangeable.
 
I have nothing but praise for the MacBook Air line. My 2010 and 2012 MBAs still work today and the 2012 is being used as a daily driver for schoolwork (MS Office, Citrix Receiver, Chrome, and regular surfing). They are sturdy workhorses that just keep plugging along.

An added bonus; they are incredibly affordable.
 
I'm using an early 2015 13" (liquid-damaged unit from Craigslist purchased for a few bucks) for my daily computing needs and love it.

You see lots of negative rants for the Air on other forums but, personally,I don't really care.
 
Thank you very much! After all these opinion, I think I’ll choose Air. But what about the screen size? Is 13” enough?
 
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