Like other laptops in the market, MacBooks also come in a variety of choices. And for enthusiasts, it can be pretty complicated to decide which one is right for you and which one might be a little bit overkill. So, if you’re planning on buying a fancy portable computer, read our MacBook buying guide in India before making your decision.
Is macOS Right for You?
There are several reasons why macOS is our preferred choice, but generally, Apple’s operating system doesn’t gel well with users from another operating system. Apple has worked hard on creating a lag-free, clean UI that allows users to do almost anything a Windows or a Linux computer can. Nevertheless, there is no turning back once you get involved with macOS (at least for most of us!)
If you’ve decided on making the shift, you will need to check if the apps you’re used to working with are available for Mac. Usually, they are all compatible with Mac, but it’s better to take another look. You will also definitely find similar applications if the one you’re working with isn’t available for macOS. Also, if you have an iPhone or an iPad, you cannot ask for anything better than the Mac operating system to let you work with continuity.
Best Time to Buy a MacBook
Every day is a great day to get yourself a MacBook. Nah, that’s just the Apple fanboy in me speaking. The festive season is the best time to buy a MacBook in India, as you will benefit from offers and discounts. You can check with your local reseller for offers or buy them online. Though you won’t see many offers while purchasing the latest MacBook Pro models as they’ve just launched, you can crack a deal on last year’s M1 Pro or the MacBook Air.
MacBook Buying Guide in India: Which MacBook Is Right For You?
Right now, Apple is retailing four laptops in India. You can purchase the MacBook Air (M1 2020), MacBook Pro 13-inch (M1 2020), MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021), or the MacBook Pro 16-inch (2021). The latest 2021 models come with Apple’s uber-powerful M1 Pro and M1 Max chipsets.
MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
The MacBook Air was one of the first Apple laptops to get its inherent M1 processor. It’s Apple’s entry-level model and comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of hard disk storage. It’s got a 13.3-inch screen and weighs 1.29 kgs. All of M1’s good stuff is present in the form of an 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine.
The MacBook Air is the only Apple laptop offered in three different shades. You can buy the entry-level MacBook in Silver, Space Grey, or Gold hues. You can also opt for a higher variant that comes with an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and a 512GB disk storage option. Priced at ₹92,900, you cannot go wrong with the MacBook Air.
The highlight of the MacBook Air after the M1 transition is its battery life. The device has a claimed battery backup of 15 hours. I personally have been using the M1 MacBook Air, and it easily lasts a day and a half. However, only two USB-C ports can get irritating, especially when one port is engaged for charging. You do get a 3.5mm headphone jack, but an additional couple of ports are a necessity. Nevertheless, if your other needs are met, you can always buy a dongle and solve the issue.
13-inch MacBook Pro (M1, 2020)
Alongside the MacBook Air, the good old 13-inch Pro also received the M1 treatment. If you can increase your budget and need a more powerful laptop, the 13-inch M1 MacBook Pro is the right choice. After the Cupertino tech giant released the 2021 MacBook Pros, they didn’t discontinue the 2020 13-inch model. The move may be to offer an entry-level “Pro” model instead of having just two expensive options.
There are two models of last year’s MacBook Pro. The base model costs ₹1,22,900 (currently on sale for ₹1,08,990!) and the higher variant is priced at ₹1,42,900 (currently on sale for ₹1,26,990!). Both the models are equipped with Apple M1 and get an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine. While the basic model comes with 256GB hard disk storage, the higher variant offers 512GB.
All of Apple’s Pro powers are present in the 2020 MacBook Pro, and the device also has a healthy 17 hours of battery life. The drawbacks come from the unreliable Touch Bar in place of physical keys, and that the price is on the higher side.
14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro (2021, M1 Pro or Max)
2021 witnessed the biggest design change for MacBooks in a long time. The 14-inch and the 16-inch models come with thin bezels and a notch. Also on offer is a fabulous 120Hz ProMotion display. Apple has even upgraded the M1 processor, and they now offer two versions: the fast M1 Pro and the faster M1 Max.
Finally, Apple has added a better 1080p webcam on the latest Pros, and both the devices offer brilliant battery life and crazy fast processors. My bank account is the only thing keeping me back from purchasing the 14 or the 16-inch MacBook Pro. Both the new devices are priced on the higher spectrum of the market.
Which MacBook Deserves Breaking Your Bank
For most users, the MacBook Air will suffice as the best option. The Air is light, portable, and comes with the correct amount of power and battery life. It offers a good amount of hard disk storage, and the Air’s great starting price is a sure shot dealmaker. However, if you’re considering the higher 512GB variant of the Air, it might be better to go for the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Although you will have to be slightly more careful with the Touch Bar, all other merits will leave you smiling at the end of each working day.
On the other hand, suppose you’re into photo and video editing or coding. In that case, you should consider getting the latest MacBook Pro. Right now, I doubt there is any other processor more powerful than the M1 Pro, let alone the Max. Keep in mind that the bigger Pros are made for true ‘pro users’. The lightning-fast processors are too powerful for everyday usage. Also, the ProMotion display would definitely look brilliant.
Here is your MacBook buying guide in India. If you happen to buy a new Mac after reading this blog, tag us on social media and we will join in for the celebrations!
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