Advice on what to get with $1k.

[MrWoppit]

Background: I am a long time Apple Lover. I always have the latest Apple Tech, currently have the iPhone 11 Pro Max, Watch S5, and of course AirPods Pro. Love the setup but due to my job have always had a PC. Always.

That’s recently changed and I’m looking to buy my first Apple computer. I want to spend about $1,000.

I don’t know the first thing about Apple computers. I see so many different types. I think I want the Pro, I want a laptop but will mainly be on a desk.

I don’t really understand how the models are broke down, what’s most important the specs or the age? So many different types for sale when looking on a used market. What would you recommend starting out with 1k? I mainly would use it to link my life together on a computer. Not really into gaming but like having a fast computer and do some minor photo editing.

What’s important to know when buying a used MacBook Pro and is there a model or year to stay away from or go with?

 

[jpn]

hi
great post.
i haven't checked prices, but i would go with a MacBook Air (Early 2015- Mid 2017 model).
the most important thing is to ensure that you pick a model that can run the latest macOS.
then, try to get a model that has the most RAM, not necessarily the largest disk.
the Air is not a speed demon but is reliable.
then, if you have any money left over, i would invest in iCloud Drive to get all yr files in to the cloud, and accessible from both the mac the iPhone. its a monthly cost, but charge for 50GB is inexpensive.

 

[Reflej0]

Hi, I own a Mac Mini 2018, and today I bought a Macbook Air 2015, and previously owned a Mac Mini 2014, and used a Macbook Air 2014.
Surely you are looking for current models, but the recommendation I always make, SSD disk and at least 8GB of ram, the rest of the components will affect to a lesser or greater extent depending on your tasks.
I would think that for a not very demanding video editing or programming in xCode a Macbook Air 2017 ~ 2019 would be enough.
The Macbook (No pro or air) do not think they are recommended, they have Intel Core M processors that have poor performance, the advantage of this model is its USB C charging and the higher screen resolution compared to Macbook Air.
Although it is not your goal, they recommend avoiding the 2011 MBPs.