Hey guys! I noticed that it says "proceed with caution" when buying a mac air and that they haven't updated the air in a long time. So it is more than likely due for a significant update? I was hoping to spend under 1000 dollars and have decided on the 11inch. Do you think I should wait to buy a computer after my first semester to get the new macbook air line? I am planning on buying refurbished so I won't be able to afford a new one probably unless they were around the 1000 mark. I would just feel bummed if I spent 800 dollars and then something that was WAY better come out. Thanks for taking the time to read my question. Please let me know what you would suggestion I do.
First, I echo the above comments that as a student the 13" is superior. If you anticipate writing anything (essays, reports, powerpoints, websites, etc.) then you will certainly benefit from the extra vertical realestate.
Considering your budget of $1000, I think the best bang for buck would be to find a refurbished or even gently used 2013 Macbook Air. The 2013 models are slightly cheaper than the 2014, but nearly identical in specs and speed, and have incredible battery life.
I would also urge you to not get the new macbook air that is expected to come out in 2015, whatever it may be, for a number of reasons: (1) it is expected to be a total redesign, and the first version of any design from any company is bound to have some problems or issues, as a student you want something proven and reliable; (2) it is expected to have fewer ports, as a student you will likely be using and sharing thumb drives or portable hard drives and need at least 2 USB ports; (3) it might have a new charger, as a student you want to have the same charger than all your classmates have, so you can borrow one on days you forget, and most students (at least in Boston from what I have seen) have Macs with the current magsafe charger; and (4) in all likelihood, the new macbook air will not be all that much better than the current one.
