I'm looking to upgrade from my old, slow PC, and I'm considering different options. I've been eyeing a MacBook Pro M4, particularly the 16" version, because I like the idea of portability. I mainly use my computer for photo and video editing, as well as graphic design, and I'm wondering if it makes sense to get an external monitor for larger editing sessions or if that defeats the purpose of getting a laptop in the first place.
Alternatively, I'm thinking about buying a different laptop that's good for editing or even building a new PC, but that sounds a bit overwhelming since I'd have to figure out what parts to get. I've had a great experience with my iPhone, which makes me lean towards Apple, especially since friends have told me their older MacBooks still perform well. I'm willing to spend around $2,500, but I want to make sure I'm making the right choice. What do you all think about the MacBook Pro?
4 Answers
Apple’s pretty popular for graphics and video editing, but honestly, a well-built Windows PC can do just as much. If you invest around a grand into a good gaming PC, you'd probably love the editing experience just as much!
Building a Windows PC is a solid idea, especially since there are ways to get Windows 11 running on older hardware. Macs can be pricey and don’t support all applications you might need. You might also find decent second-hand laptops on eBay or local marketplaces.
I have a 2013 MacBook Pro, and I still use it for a lot of tasks, including running different operating systems. It’s been reliable for editing and has held up well over the years. If you’re into graphic design, the Mac is definitely a strong choice for longevity and performance.
But why buy a Mac if you're just going to run other operating systems on it? Seems kinda unnecessary!
If cost is a big concern, building a PC can be a fantastic option. You could easily set up a great machine for about half of what a MacBook Pro would cost, and it'll last you a long time too!
What kind of professional apps do people usually complain about not working on Mac?