I'm about to graduate as a software engineer in 9 months, and I'm looking to buy a MacBook. My primary programming languages are Golang and Java, but I also work with Android and Kotlin for app development. I've got a school project coming up where I need to build a game with Unity, and I want to use this MacBook for that as well as everyday tasks like web browsing, music, and light photo editing. My current options are to either snag an M1 Pro with 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD for $600 right now or wait until December to see if there are better models available. I don't need something super high-spec since I know I won't fully utilize 32GB of RAM. I'm curious if this M1 Pro will suit my needs for coding and gaming, or if I should look for something else.
4 Answers
The M1 Pro is a solid choice, especially for backend work and daily tasks. I still use mine for web development and it handles everything effortlessly. Just a heads up though, 512GB might fill up faster than you think, so if there's a possibility to upgrade to 1TB, that could be worth considering. Otherwise, it seems like a good fit for your needs!
Great choice going for the M1 Pro if you're looking for a reliable machine. It’s powerful even for long-term use, but just remember it’s okay to wait if you’re hoping for a better deal or model down the line. Don’t rush it!
Thanks for the advice! I’m leaning toward grabbing it now since it seems to fill my needs well.
If budget allows, I suggest checking out Apple’s refurbished deals. Those can give you a newer model for a better price. That said, if you’re comfortable with Linux and your work permits, you might find higher value in a dedicated Linux laptop.
I appreciate the suggestion! But I've already decided on wanting a MacBook for the interface and my workflow preferences.
Honestly, if you're doing serious work with Docker and planning to use it for Android development, I'd advise considering how those tools perform on Mac. They often run smoother on Linux. However, if you’re set on a MacBook, the M1 Pro should manage just fine! Just balance the RAM and storage based on your usage patterns.
Good point! I’ve had some challenges with Docker on my Mac, but if you’re mostly testing and not under heavy loads it should be manageable.
Totally agree! My M1 Air has 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, and I've found it works great for most dev tasks. Just be mindful of your storage.