Looking for guidance (12 inch MacBook)

[nyc232]

Hello Mac Community,


It would be great to get everyone’s take on this.


I’m actually very disappointed that apple discontinued the 12 inch MacBook, what an incredible machine that fulfills all my needs in a sleek two pound package. Anyhow, we must move on - I currently have a 2016 model (1.2ghz, 512gb, 8gb ram), and for what I use it for, it has more than enough power.


I‘m considering buying a 2017 model to future proof (16gb ram, 1.4 ghz, 512gb), but it really seems like such a waste to buy it now as my current model is more than enough.


I guess the question is, should I buy it now and store it? With the risk being that I won’t find a maxed out model. Or just wait to see how things play out, and if apple resurrects this form factor, possibly with an arm chip.


Thanks!

 

[SecuritySteve]

I would wait. Your system will be supported with OS and security updates for many years to come still. Unless you need more horsepower, wait it out.

 

[ARK]

My wife is using the base 2015 model and I find myself cruising the internet looking for 2017 models myself. Either for her or for me to use personally. I just like the little package. Thats it. The little footprint is what I like most about it. You could always just buy it and sell your 2016 model.

I DO think however that the 12" will be back. It truly is the best platform to test an ARM processor on. Its just a matter of time before Apple makes it again.

 

[nyc232]

Thank you both for your feedback!

 

[adamfozzy]

I am in a similar position. I have the 2017 base model MacBook, which has been one of my best purchases ever - run by business from it with no issues. I tried the MacBook Pro in 2017 so will not be moving up to that in it's current design.

I am tempted to buy the 16gb i5 version from refurb store or somewhere but have decided to wait until next year to see what happens. Like others have said, the MacBook 12 inch (or maybe 12.5 inch if they reduce the bezels) would be great with ARM but we will just have to wait and see.

 

[BODYBUILDERPAUL]

Oh gosh no!
Keep the one that you have and enjoy it - tomorrow is never guaranteed PLUS
1. Apple may next year launch an ARM laptop with a brand new design that you much prefer
2. The 2020 MacBook Pro with rounded edge screen and new design may make you abandon your love affair with the MacBook 12"

Apple are truly unpredictable so you really never know what may happen - look at the new iPad Pro that was launched - beautiful design and then....... whoops 6 months later they launch the iPad Air and iPad Mini in designs that look 10 years old - YUK. Sometimes you really can't figure out their direction or maybe lack of it!

 

[mrtomtom]

Hello Mac Community,


It would be great to get everyone’s take on this.


I’m actually very disappointed that apple discontinued the 12 inch MacBook, what an incredible machine that fulfills all my needs in a sleek two pound package. Anyhow, we must move on - I currently have a 2016 model (1.2ghz, 512gb, 8gb ram), and for what I use it for, it has more than enough power.


I‘m considering buying a 2017 model to future proof (16gb ram, 1.4 ghz, 512gb), but it really seems like such a waste to buy it now as my current model is more than enough.


I guess the question is, should I buy it now and store it? With the risk being that I won’t find a maxed out model. Or just wait to see how things play out, and if apple resurrects this form factor, possibly with an arm chip.


Thanks!

I am in a similar position with a 2017 MacBook (8gb / 512gb/ i7) , I am really happy in it, I would just like 16gb ram which would make my work a lot easier. I am also looking to get a 4K monitor, and my only real question is how well it can run the 4k monitor.

Has anyone got any experience in running one at 4k resolution? Any stuttering or anything if at 60hz?

 

[adamfozzy]

I am in a similar position with a 2017 MacBook (8gb / 512gb/ i7) , I am really happy in it, I would just like 16gb ram which would make my work a lot easier. I am also looking to get a 4K monitor, and my only real question is how well it can run the 4k monitor.

Has anyone got any experience in running one at 4k resolution? Any stuttering or anything if at 60hz?

I use my 2017 Macbook with the Ultrafine LG 4K (21 inch). No issues at all - love it.

 

[deeddawg]

I'd say wait. I've long held that one should buy when you need to buy, not before.

In a couple years if you really need a 2017 model it's quite likely you'll be able to find one either in the Apple refurb store or a slightly used one. Okay maybe you might have to wait some, using refurb.me or other tracker, but I expect they'll be available in one form or another.

As others mention, it's also quite possible other new options may appear that you'd rather have.