I'm currently a computer science student who mostly uses Windows and I've always dreamed of owning a Mac. I have a special Java programming course coming up, along with classes in Android and iOS development. I'm curious if the MacBook Neo is suitable for these needs, or if I should just stick with my Windows setup.
4 Answers
When it comes to iOS, you’ll be using Xcode and emulators, and for Android, emulators again. I'd say 16GB is really the minimum you should aim for, plus faster storage will help. You could set up some tools to compile remotely from a Windows machine, but a Mac Mini might serve you better if that's the route you go.
For iOS development, you definitely need macOS. However, I think the MacBook Neo with only 8GB of RAM might struggle a bit with heavier tasks. A MacBook Air with 16GB would be much better, or even the MacBook Pro.
Honestly, I wouldn’t suggest a laptop with just 8GB for a computer science student. You really want at least 16GB or even 32GB. While Java can run with 8GB, you’ll hit limits quickly when using Docker or dealing with bigger projects. I would recommend looking for a used MacBook M1, which you can likely find for a similar price on the marketplace.
The Neo is kind of like those older mini netbooks—good for web browsing and light tasks. Not sure how it’ll handle Xcode, but it probably won't do great. Just a heads up on that!
Yeah, I’ve seen people say that 8GB is just the bare minimum for Xcode, and they had pretty rough experiences with it, especially a few years back.