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Buying nTB MacBook Pro

T

tobsennn

macrumors newbie
Original poster
May 15, 2015
6
0
Hi macrumors people! I'm looking to replace my trusty old MacBook Air (Mid 2012) and am now contemplating buying the nTB MacBook Pro. I'm aware that it has the older 7th gen processor, but I guess it's probably still a solid upgrade for my old Air. My main use cases are office work (LaTeX, ...), light/medium programming and of course web browsing and watching the occasional movies. I will probably also do some light photo editing in the future, but nothing too serious.

Why I'm considering the nTB model: I don't really like the Touch Bar too much, but more importantly experienced regular kernel panics on a MBP 2018 with Touch Bar I first considered as my go to replacement. Reading up the 100+ pages on this topic on the forums here, I don't really feel like playing the lottery again, unless someone can convince me to do so. I also considered the new MacBook Air, but comparing the screens at a local retailer, I really liked the MBP Screen a lot better for its extra brightness. I'm also a little scared the T2 Chip in there might result in the same regular kernel panics...

Is there anything significant I missed or should consider? Do you think there will be a spec bump for the nTB model, or will it be completely phased out soon? Thanks for your help!
 
You need to be aware that the nTB Macbook Pro is still using the 2nd gen Butterfly keyboard. Apple has launched a free repair program for up to 4 years after your purchase. However if you plan to use this laptop for longer than 4 years you need to keep in mind that keyboard repair will cost you around $900.
 
Ah right, thanks for the reminder. Are these keyboard issues as widespread as they seem to be? Guess I'll have to think about my decision some more..
 
I have the 2016 nTB MBP. I never had keyboard issues with the original keyboard. I did have a swollen battery (not very common, and replaced under warranty), and received the 2017 keyboard version as the replacement. I've again had no problems with it. Anecdotal, I know, but I wouldn't write off the entire line on the chance of it failing after 4 years.

The nTB MBP will handle everything you need. If it's what you want and can afford, I'd go for it.
 
Thanks for your reply, I'll probably just get one tomorrow and hope for the best :)
 
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