I'm totally new to Apple and macOS but I want to dive in and see if the ecosystem works for me. I'm thinking about getting a used MacBook Air 13" from 2018 for about $250-300, and I plan to do some basic stuff like learning about the terminal and command line, working on small backend projects using Python and Node.js (maybe even dabbling with Docker), and using tools like Git, GitHub, and VS Code. Is this a decent starter machine for me? What downsides should I be aware of for this model in 2025? Are there any other older MacBooks I should check out that fit my budget?
4 Answers
Honestly, if you can swing it, I’d recommend looking for a used or refurbished M1 Mac instead. The older Intel models are going to start losing OS support soon, plus the M1 is way faster and cooler. It’s worth spending a bit more for that upgrade!
As someone who spent 14 years with Apple, I can tell you the 2018 model has some quirks. One major issue was that when the battery started to fail, the laptop wouldn't boot at all! Not ideal for a beginner trying to learn.
Thanks for the heads-up! I'll definitely keep that in mind.
Buying anything Intel-based right now is probably not the best move. A lot of the 2018 MacBook Airs are already marked as Vintage and Obsolete. Might want to steer clear!
I think that model is just too old now. You really want something with at least an M-series chip to have a good experience.
What about if I only plan to use it for a year?