Macbook Pro Buy?
Macbook Pro Buy? a reader asks…
I’m ready for a new Macbook Pro, my old Macbook Air has served me well since 2011, but now has too many problems to keep using. I also found the Air model a little lightweight for my needs, so want to upgrade to the Pro. I heard there’s a new model of Macbook Pro coming out this fall. My question is, should I wait and get that, or buy now?
That’s really a question only you can answer, but let me give you some information to help you decide. Apple hasn’t yet announced the new 2016 Macbook Pro, but all indications are that it will come out sometime this fall, and certainly before the holiday present-buying rush. At this point in time, the rumor mill is in full swing, promising that the new models will sport a new design and more colors (think the Apple Watch or iPhone/iPad colors), will have better battery life, be thinner yet more powerful, and could have a force touch trackpad, Touch ID, a USB-C port and maybe an OLED screen. I think the better battery life and thinner profile are going to be the best reasons to wait for the new model to be released. And a case could be made for graphics design work and other creative disciplines – wait for the more powerful graphics adapters that will be on the new models.
Some reasons for buying now include the probability that you’ll find price breaks and discounts as Apple and retailers try to clear out old stock to make way for the new models. Back-to-school sales can often be used by anyone, not just students. It’s likely the new model will have fewer ports than existing Macbook Pros, as Apple moves from separate USB, HDMI and Thunderbolt ports to the USB-C model. I’m hopeful they’ll at least keep the SD card slot.
I would say that if you can wait, by all means do so. If saving money is your top concern, pull the trigger now and take advantage of sales and discounts.
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