Which MacBook should I get?

[Flint456]

So I am a PC guy moving over to the Mac for the first time. I work with PCs all the time since I’m in IT and just want a change of pace with my personal computing now. Anyway, I came across a 2016 MacBook M5 with 512GB of storage for $719, the battery cycle is 262 and and a 2017 MacBook Pro with 128GB for $869, battery cycle is 223. Both computers are used but are in real good condition.
I don’t know which one to go with, I don’t photo or video edit but I have a huge music collection that is over 100GB that I would like to have on my computer since I use Audacity. Beside the causal browsing, I will also run VMs from time to time. Also I was wondering if the MacBook Pro 2017 Ssd is replaceable?

 

[dannyyankou]

Given that you have a 100gb music collection, that gives you only 28gb of storage to work with on the 2017 model. Sadly, storage is not upgradable. At $719, that 2016 MacBook Pro seems like a very good deal.

 

[theapplehead]

I would be careful around those years for MacBook pros. There have been a number of issues noticed with those Macs, and it’s enough to scare me away. If I were you, I would opt for at least a 2018 model, if possible. Otherwise, I’d consider a 2015 MBP. Whatever you choose I wish you the best! Good luck!

 

[dannyyankou]

I would be careful around those years for MacBook pros. There have been a number of issues noticed with those Macs, and it’s enough to scare me away. If I were you, I would opt for at least a 2018 model, if possible. Otherwise, I’d consider a 2015 MBP. Whatever you choose I wish you the best! Good luck!

Yeah, another thing about the 2015 models is that you can swap out the SSD if you need more space, although the ram is soldered on.

 

[ApplesandOranges]

Early 2015 MBP. Anything after that is a gamble.

 

[Khaleal]

the 2016 is definitely the better choice among the two, but remember that the keyboard replacement program is 4 years from the date of purchase, and if it was purchased in 2016, it won't be eligible for free keyboard replacements after 2020. so keep that in mind

 

[HappyIntro]

So I am a PC guy moving over to the Mac for the first time. I work with PCs all the time since I’m in IT and just want a change of pace with my personal computing now. Anyway, I came across a 2016 MacBook M5 with 512GB of storage for $719, the battery cycle is 262 and and a 2017 MacBook Pro with 128GB for $869, battery cycle is 223. Both computers are used but are in real good condition.
I don’t know which one to go with, I don’t photo or video edit but I have a huge music collection that is over 100GB that I would like to have on my computer since I use Audacity. Beside the causal browsing, I will also run VMs from time to time. Also I was wondering if the MacBook Pro 2017 Ssd is replaceable?

OK, it's probably too easy for me to encourage you to spend a bit more money, but I might suggest keep looking for a 2017 model with 256 or 512 GB storage. Their CPU is a nice upgrade over the 2016 and you might find one with less cycles on the battery. Swappa is a good place to look for used Macs. Also, there are some new 2017 MacBooks being sold still with decent discounts I believe, however still more $$ than your current used choices. BH Photo is selling a 2017 MacBook with 512 GB storage and i5 CPU for $1299, and if you'd consider the newer MacBook Air, Best Buy is selling the 256 GB model for $1099, $300 off.

 

[Flint456]

OK, it's probably too easy for me to encourage you to spend a bit more money, but I might suggest keep looking for a 2017 model with 256 or 512 GB storage. Their CPU is a nice upgrade over the 2016 and you might find one with less cycles on the battery. Swappa is a good place to look for used Macs. Also, there are some new 2017 MacBooks being sold still with decent discounts I believe, however still more $$ than your current used choices. BH Photo is selling a 2017 MacBook with 512 GB storage and i5 CPU for $1299, and if you'd consider the newer MacBook Air, Best Buy is selling the 256 GB model for $1099, $300 off.

Thanks for the advice, I will checkout Swappa. I was at Best Buy this week to check out the Air. I like it but I feel in love with the Pro sitting beside it. Safe to say I’m leaning towards the Pro line now.
[doublepost=1566058742][/doublepost]

the 2016 is definitely the better choice among the two, but remember that the keyboard replacement program is 4 years from the date of purchase, and if it was purchased in 2016, it won't be eligible for free keyboard replacements after 2020. so keep that in mind

I never thought about it, you are right.
[doublepost=1566059024][/doublepost]

I would be careful around those years for MacBook pros. There have been a number of issues noticed with those Macs, and it’s enough to scare me away. If I were you, I would opt for at least a 2018 model, if possible. Otherwise, I’d consider a 2015 MBP. Whatever you choose I wish you the best! Good luck!

I was looking into a 2015 Pro but I preferred the design of the newer models. I wish Apple gave their customers user access to the ssd for replacement for the newer MacBook at least.

 

[Flint456]

So here’s the update, HappyIntro’s advise and spent more money and bought the 2019 MacBook Pro, hopefully I don’t have to worry about the flexgate stuff at least l.

 

[HappyIntro]

Congratulations, the 2019 MacBook Pros are very sweet machines, definitely the change of pace you were looking for. I hope you like it!