which macbook(pro) to get

[Els_Decl]

Hi all,

Could you please advise me on which MacBook Pro I should get?
I currently have one from 2011 (Mac OS X, i7 processor, 4 GB RAM) but sadly he is at the end of his career 🙂
I do process HD video footage in iMovie (recreationally, but you can tell it asks a lot from my old macbook pro at the moment), besides that it's mostly for regular (non-gaming) use.

I'm considering the MacBook Pro 13 inch (2017) 256 GB which has 8GB RAM, i5 processor and Intel Iris Plus Graphic 640. Based on what I read so far i5 8GB should be better than i7 4 GB in most cases but I wanted to verify that that is also the case when you're working with HD footage?

Would a MacBook Air be an option? (e.g. with i5 5350U, 8GB RAM, Intel HD Graphics 6000?)
I have the feeling it might not be strong enough but just checking as it would save some money.. 🙂

thanks in advance for your advise!

kind regards,
Els

 

[New_Mac_Smell]

Anything is going to be a significant upgrade from a 7 year old computer, regardless of the CPU, that's 7 years of advancements... Also if you're currently getting by with a low powered 2011, then you clearly don't need anything fancy.

Base model would be adequate, however I'd wait a month or so, strong rumors of a newer MacBook Air coming out that would probably be ideal for you. Otherwise the base model MBP (Non-touch), however this hasn't received an update this year.

 

[AppleHaterLover]

however I'd wait a month or so

This. If you don't absolutely need a computer this week, hold off until next month's event.

If they release new computers, you can get those.

If they release new computers and you don't like them, you can get last years' for cheap.

If they don't release anything, it's business as usual and you only "lost" a week or 10 days.

 

[Ma2k5]

Anything is going to be a significant upgrade from a 7 year old computer, regardless of the CPU, that's 7 years of advancements... Also if you're currently getting by with a low powered 2011, then you clearly don't need anything fancy.

Base model would be adequate, however I'd wait a month or so, strong rumors of a newer MacBook Air coming out that would probably be ideal for you. Otherwise the base model MBP (Non-touch), however this hasn't received an update this year.

I agree with waiting to see what the new MacBook's bring, I would just like to add that the Non-touch MBP doesn't have the 3rd generation butterfly key, so I would rule it out on just that alone let alone that it hasn't been updated.

 

[Els_Decl]

I agree with waiting to see what the new MacBook's bring, I would just like to add that the Non-touch MBP doesn't have the 3rd generation butterfly key, so I would rule it out on just that alone let alone that it hasn't been updated.

ok thanks everyone, great advise!
(note that my current one is getting way too slow but I can wait a few weeks longer 🙂)

do you guys know when the new ones are expected (if the rumors are correct); beginning of September or more towards the end?

(there is currently a promo in one on the local stores on MacBook Air, that's why I'm asking...)

 

[AppleHaterLover]

ok thanks everyone, great advise!
(note that my current one is getting way too slow but I can wait a few weeks longer 🙂)

do you guys know when the new ones are expected (if the rumors are correct); beginning of September or more towards the end?

(there is currently a promo in one on the local stores on MacBook Air, that's why I'm asking...)

I've seen a September 12 date being thrown around for the announcement.

There's been LOADS of MacBook Air sales recently (I've seen some for the iPhone 8 and X as well). Usually means a product is about to be discontinued.

I'd think you might be able to score a 13" Air for $700 if it is indeed discontinued...

 

[frou]

(there is currently a promo in one on the local stores on MacBook Air, that's why I'm asking...)

Don't do it... The current Air has a particularly bad quality screen and you will have a much nicer experience editing video on just about any other Mac.

 

[Fishrrman]

For video processing, you don't want a MacBook Air. Not enough power.

Have you thought of getting an iMac?
Much better for video editing -- that BIG display?

You could keep the 2011 MBP for "laptop stuff".

 

[KarmaRocket]

For HD editing on iMovie, a MacBook Air would be fine. If editing is something you think you might want to get more serious about, I would look into the MacBook Pro. It will run Final Cut Pro fine if you decide to upgrade and need a bit more power and features. The screen is a lot better as well.

If you can wait a bit longer, Apple will most likely update the MacBook Air with a better (retina) screen and better processors. Might be cheaper than buying a used 2017 MBP 13.

 

[Els_Decl]

ok so gathering all your responses I think either a new MacBook Air or a MacBookPro would be the best option 🙂

I know you get more power for less money in iMac but I need it to be mobile so the best for me is a laptop..

thanks for your feedback all!