Six core or Max?

[jacg]

I’ve always maxed out my specs on new MBPs. I’ve been aware of heat and noise issues over the years. And my 2016 keyboard has unreliable E and 9 keys. So need an upgrade.

Regarding CPU/GPU, should I just go for the base model if I am mostly using Pages, Keynote, Numbers, Safari, Mail and Photos, and occasionally FCPX and Logic Pro X? I do tend to have a lot of menu bar items/background processes running but I’m not sure how well these will take advantage of extra cores.

Would I get similar performance and better thermals and battery with a six-core, base GPU for most of what I do?

 

[AustinIllini]

The fact that you said "occasionally" makes me think you should stick with the base model with the six core.

 

[Sirmausalot]

Only max out if you do a lot of compression/encoding/effects on longer form projects. Otherwise save your $$ as you might only save a few seconds here and there.

 

[Rafterman]

Unlike iPhones, which you may upgrde every year, Macbooks are like an every five year deal or something like that. So, don't shortchange yourself in that in two years, you realize you need more juice.

 

[powerocool]

If it's only $200 difference, then you should max. You will get better resale value down the road too. So the actual cost is much less.

 

[BarrettF77]

Top chips are higher bin processors that run more efficiently typically. FWIW

 

[Nacho98]

6-core will be fine but at the same time it does seem to ring true that processor dictates resale down the road...

I also am struggling with that decision knowing that the 6-core is WAY adequate for me. Still leaning that way, but...

 

[jacg]

Thanks for your advice, everyone. So in theory, higher specced machines should not impact on battery or heat, due to their better efficiency. So it just comes down to $$$ and performance/resale in a few years.