MacBook M3 256GB vs MacBook i5 512GB (12-inch, 2017)

[CatherineVeraGat]

The one I'm getting is the MacBook 12-inch 2017 model. I'm trying to decide which version to get. So this is my first MacBook, I'm planning on using it for the rest of high school and collage. (So about 6 years.)

I want to have 512GB SSD storage and maybe 16GB of memory, but I don't want to pay the $1,599 price tag for the version that has 512GB SSD, 8GB of memory and an i5 processor (That I don't find necessary to have) Then I would have to upgrade to 16GB of memory, then the total price is $1,799.

But if Apple would let us pick out more options on the Macbook 12-inch $1,299 base model then the specs would be the m3 processor, 512GB SSD, 16GB of memory.

On the base model ($1,299) the i5 processor is available for an extra $100. But I don't find it worthy enough to upgrade to the i5 processor when it isn't a significant jump in power when compared to the Intel Core m3.

I'm going to do some
- Light to Heavy web browsing
- Photoshop
- Illustrator
- Light 2D/3D rendering (CAD rendering)
- Light architecture programs (Designing floor plans, or designing some parts of houses.)

I really don't know if I really need 512GB SSD, 16GB of memory, For what I will use this MacBook for. I really don't need the i5 processor.

What is the best thing for me to have?
Any suggestions?

 

[chscag]

Already answered in your duplicate post. Moderator: can you combine both posts?

 

[ZapNZs]

Have you considered the nTB MacBook Pro? Based on your workload, the amount of time you wish to keep the system, the MBP's modern IO, and the relative similar pricing between the two machines, could it be a better match in the long term? The MBP's much faster CPU, stupidly faster GPU, faster RAM and SSD, better screen, and modern IO might all be of considerable benefit with what you do now, and be of even greater benefit several years down the road?

You can get a nTB with the 2.3 Ghz i5, 8GB of RAM, and 256 SSD for $1450 from the Education store ($1,600 if you want 16 GB RAM). As you would have USB 3.1 gen 2 and Thunderbolt 3, very high-speed external storage would be possible with this model.