Future-proof 16" MBP

[shimps1]

I have a mid-2010 15" MBP that is on its last legs, it has begun struggling with regular internet browsing. Because of this, I would like to upgrade within the next couple weeks.

The computer is used for extremely simple Excel files, rare word processing, and for typical email/internet browsing. Honestly, nothing that would tax the computer much.

However, I love the size of the 15" MBP I currently have, so I do not want a 13" MBP or an Air. I am not tied to the Mac ecosystem at all, but I have enjoyed using my current computer for the past decade and would like to stay with Apple, unless a very compelling case can be made to leave them. Build quality and materials of the non-Apple notebook would need to be on par with a MBP for me to consider it.

I would like this computer to also last roughly 10 years, like my current one has. Obviously, there is no way to know what the future holds, but I would like to be prepared.

I would need 1TB of storage for photos and music that I will be transferring over.

Is the standard $2799 1TB MBP sufficient to last the next decade or so with my use? Should I upgrade the RAM to 32GB? What about upgrading the CPU, or the graphics chip to 8GB?

Knowing the internals are not upgradable, I'd like to spend more now and know I'm safe, rather than have to buy a new computer sooner.

I am definitely open to refurbished, and also non-Apple as mentioned. Budget is up to $3500 USD but would prefer to spend less. If there is a case to be made for buying 3x $1.2k computers every three years for the next 9 years (or some similar variation) instead of one $3500 computer for that whole time, I'd be willing to consider that as well.

Thanks!

 

[peteullo]

Outside of memory and storage, I wouldn't go too crazy on 'future proofing'. When Apple decides to kill support for that laptop, it won't matter what video card, etc is in there. They'll cut off all models of that year's 16" at the same time.

 

[mtneer]

A 16" MBP is wildly overkill for Excel, Word and emails. Even a mid spec MBA will be able to do the job for a very long time. You'll probably be constrained by some hardware - battery or keyboard wearing out before the speed of the machine becomes a bottleneck for such light tasks. I have a Core 2 Duo machine from 2008 that can do basic Excel, Word and email even today.

 

[shimps1]

Thanks! Honestly, I am not too worried about Apple killing support, since they are still offering updates on my 2010 MBP even now, and, even if they stop supporting it, it's not like it will stop working. I just want something that has enough power and memory to last into the future. Not sure if the base 16" MBP would be safe or if I need to upgrade certain aspect of it.

 

[Canubis]

Since SSDs are soldered these days, I personally prefer to be very generous on that front. If you already need roughly 1TB these days, I would go with at least 2TB, or more if it's in the budget. Your photo library will grow for sure within the next 10 years and internal storage is always nicer, faster and more accessible than some external disk or cloud.

Personally I just upgraded from a 2011 MacBook Air 11" with 1TB (self-upgraded) to the latest MacBook Pro 13" with 4TB. Since I also plan to use that computer for the next 5-10 years, the extra space will certainly come handy.

I owned quite a few devices so far in my life and never ever did I think "I should have picked the model with less storage space" retrospectively. Though maybe it's just me.

 

[shimps1]

After doing a bit more research, I feel a base 2.3 i9 8 core MBP will be plenty for me, however, I am a bit nervous with only 16gb of RAM. Would upgrading that to 32gb add any noticeable lifespan to the computer? I'm just looking for enough power to not have to buy a new computer for at least 7-8 years.

 

[ctjack]

After doing a bit more research, I feel a base 2.3 i9 8 core MBP will be plenty for me, however, I am a bit nervous with only 16gb of RAM. Would upgrading that to 32gb add any noticeable lifespan to the computer? I'm just looking for enough power to not have to buy a new computer for at least 7-8 years.

Technology is evolving really fast nowadays. Don't put yourself in a another 7-10 years loophole by buying the most expensive laptop. Just buy the base model from refurbished store for $2039 and be happy.
You have already invested heavily in your 2010 model and lived without Retina screen for a decade because of your decision. Don't miss out another 10 years of Mac's evolution.
Instead of spending $3500 at once in 10 years, better spend $2000 every 5th year.