Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Should I replace?
- Thread starter MacSafe
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
The only reason you should be replacing that laptop is with an M Series processor. Looks like the 13 inch will be a downgrade in every way except for how long it will receive updates.
Replacing your machine with a new or refurbished M1 Air would be a better move (only if you current situation isn't suiting your needs).
Replacing your machine with a new or refurbished M1 Air would be a better move (only if you current situation isn't suiting your needs).
I know it's old, is there app/environment/process you work with; is too slow to run now?
What problems are you having with the existing system? No need to replace it if it is performing the tasks you need.
I don't know if your budget will permit it, but...
... right now nearly EVERY MBP 14/16" model is on sale with $400 off.
See:
Best Apple Deals of the Week: Major $400 Discounts Hit Every 2021 MacBook Pro and More
... right now nearly EVERY MBP 14/16" model is on sale with $400 off.
See:
Best Apple Deals of the Week: Major $400 Discounts Hit Every 2021 MacBook Pro and More
Doesn't make much sense right now to replace an Intel MBP with another Intel MBP, differences will be negligible compared with the jump to Apple Silicon.
Look for the current deals on the M1 MBPs, much more value for your money to be found there and it would be an actual tangible upgrade from what you have.
Look for the current deals on the M1 MBPs, much more value for your money to be found there and it would be an actual tangible upgrade from what you have.
Moving down to a 13" form factor after using a 15" can be quite an adjustment. I'd think long and hard about that.
Secondly, there's advantages and disadvantages with choosing another intel based Mac. I would recommend going that route if you have some must have apps that need intel but in reality if there's no such constraint I'd go for a newer laptop.
Questions to ask yourself as you decide on your next steps.
1. Does the 2017 fail to perform, do programs no longer work or are too slow?
2. Is the battery the cause of concert - if so, would a battery replacement be a stop gap measure to stave off spending so much money?
3. What does a 13" 2020 model give you that the 15" doesn't?
I wouldn't call either really future proof. The 2020 i5 4 TB3 model is not much more powerful in terms of CPU but it does have DDR4 ram. Unless you really need 4 TB3 ports, I would look at a 14" or a M1 13" both are much more cost effective compared to a 2020 Intel.