I just got myself a new MacBook Pro, the 15-inch one with 2.8 GHz CPU and 512 GB SSD. I've had a 13-inch model from 2015, which is actually not old at all. But there were a couple factors that made me decide to upgrade already: screen size, CPU, GPU, RAM and storage.
So let me break it down. My previous MacBook Pro was a 13-inch one with dual-core CPU, iGPU, 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD. I absolutely love(d) this machine, and used it every day without a problem. And to be honest, I could easily live with it now. But the thing is, I've noticed that especially when it comes to storage, I constantly had to delete stuff to make sure I have enough left. And because of the integrated GPU the 8 GB RAM was pretty quickly filled. And the CPU was decent enough, but as soon as you start using more advanced software, not so much. As for the display size, things just felt 'cramped'. Especially Visual Studio for programming.
I started looking for a new MacBook Pro. I knew it was gonna cost me quite a bit, even when choosing a 13-inch MBP. But I thought "If I'm gonna do it, I better get the best in one shot". And while the one I finally chose isn't the top of the line, it certainly is much of an improvement over my previous one and of course the 13-inch model from 2017.
The larger screen is really a game-changer. I thought the extra two inches wouldn't really make that much of a difference, but it actually does. The more powerful processor helps as well, so does the dGPU (Radeon Pro 555). Now, I know Mac's are not suitable for gaming, but I do play World of Tanks from time to time. On my previous one I could only do so at minimum settings, but the new MBP allows me to play at medium/high settings. Pretty nice to see that. The extra RAM is really helpful too. But I think the doubled SSD-storage is even more of an addition. I don't have to worry about running out of storage anymore. That's really a huge relief.
How 'bout the rest? Like the trackpad, keyboard and Touch Bar + Touch ID? Well, the larger trackpad area is certainly something, but quite nice too. There are moments where the palm recognition stuff doesn't work 100% well, but overall it works. Mostly had to get used to the new keyboard, as it felt a bit weird typing on it. Still does a bit, but I'll get used to that. As for Touch Bar, I'm actually impressed by how useful it can be. I do use it. Not all the time, but it definitely has a good use-case in some scenarios. And Touch ID is great as well! I like the design too by the way, especially the space gray color. It looks so 'pro' in a way.
I really love my new 15-inch MacBook Pro! I know it sounds fanboyish and all, but apart from the incredibly high price tag of the notebook this is really a superb Apple product. Glad I upgraded so soon.
