Upgrade 2011 13" MBP or buy 2014 rMBP refurb?

[matchu]

Hey all!

I'm considering upgrading my early 2011 13" MBP with a 256GB SSD and 8GB RAM for $160 total. Figure it would give me another year or two.

But then I see the 2014 13" rMBP on Apple Refurbs for $970 and I'm tempted to pull the trigger. Besides the screen, is it really worth it? And what could I get for my 2011 as-is?

Thanks!

 

[Naimfan]

Tough call.

Depends on if you use some of what the 2011 has that the retina does not - the optical drive, ethernet port, etc.

From a processing standpoint, the 2011 is still surprisingly competitive with the 13" retina models. The retina models have much better battery life and a much better screen (obviously, right?), as well as faster wifi, etc.

It also depends on how big a deal your budget is. Your machine is probably worth $400-500 tops if in perfect shape. If you can put money on top, and stretch to the 13" 8/256 model (1159 refurbished), I'd be very tempted to do that.