Upgrading mid 2014 13'' Macbook pro retina

[jasonfodor]

This basically served as a junk/backup laptop for basic needs.

Used it to read ebooks, watch youtube videos and used it in the kitchen with moist hands to pull recipes while cooking. Basically, didn't want to toast the battery on my new macbook and wanted something junk/cheap I wouldn't lose sleep over if it broke.

Chrome no longer updates because my macbook is too old, looking to upgrade to something that can get me 3 years or so before saying the OS is too old. Looking to replace with another 13'' (pro or air), prefer the M chips but not sure if it'll make a difference for my very basic needs.

What year and model should I aim for?

 

[dmr727]

What's your budget? If you can swing new, get a M4 Macbook Air. But if not, even a used M1 Air will be a massive upgrade and get you at least another 3 years.

 

[russell_314]

What's your budget? If you can swing new, get a M4 Macbook Air. But if not, even a used M1 Air will be a massive upgrade and get you at least another 3 years.

I second this. If you’re going to buy new, get the M4 MacBook Air. $799 on Amazon in the USA. If you’re in another country, maybe there are deals on the M3, but I can’t find anything in the USA.


If you were going used, the choice is going to be between M1 and M2 Air. The M2 uses the current form factor and in my opinion it looks better. That’s subjective and may not be the case for you.

Just make sure if you buy used it’s not activation locked. Current MacBooks have activation lock like the iPhone and it’s not uncommon for thieves to sell stolen ones on Facebook marketplace. They get their money and you end up with a device you can’t use. If you buy from a reputable seller online, you shouldn’t have to worry about this though.