As part of the Star Trek Day celebration, commemorating the 55th anniversary of the original...

Per the Star Trek On Paramount+ Twitter account, this week’s episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks will feature...

At its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, Apple announced updates coming to its various operating systems, most of which focus on its own version of AI, dubbed Apple Intelligence. MacBooks will get macOS 15, aka Sequoia, that will support Image Playground, Apple’s image generation tool, and AI composition features that can rewrite, proofread and summarize text in Mail, Notes, Pages and more. But the AI smarts will only be available to Apple laptops with an M1 chip or newer. So if you have an older model (pre-2020), or want the latest chips to get the most out of macOS 15, you might want a new MacBook. This guide will help you pick which one makes the most sense for you.

After testing every model Apple makes, we think the 13-inch MacBook Air with the M3 chip and 16GB of RAM is the best choice for most people. But there are definitely reasons to consider the cheaper M2 Air and the fully featured Pro laptops. We’ve broken down all the options to help you decide which is the best MacBook for you.

Factors to consider when buying a MacBook

Compared to PCs, Apple computers tend to have more streamlined specifications. The company has long been known for this simplicity, and the M-series “system-on-a-chip” condenses things even further. It started with the M1 chip, which has since been retired in all models. The M2 and M3 chips can be found in current-generation MacBooks, but the latest Apple silicon, the M4 chip, is only housed in the new iPad Pro. All M-series chips combine, among other technologies, the CPU, graphics card and unified memory (RAM). Apple’s Neural Engine is included too, which is a specialized group of processor cores that handles machine learning tasks such as image analysis and voice recognition. 

While a unified chip means you have fewer decisions to make when picking a MacBook, there are still a few factors to consider, including specs like the number of CPU cores, amount of RAM, storage capacity, screen size, and, obviously, price. The finish color may be a minor consideration, but it's worth pointing out that the Pro come in just two colors (Silver or Space Gray) but the Air adds two additional hues (Midnight and Starlight).

CPU cores

Currently the lowest-specced chip in a MacBook is the M2 in the 13-inch MacBook Air. It comes with an 8-core CPU and either an 8- or 10-core GPU. At the other end of the spectrum, the M3 Max chip is built with up to a 16-core CPU and a 40-core GPU. Cores are, in essence, smaller processing units that can handle different tasks simultaneously. Having more of them translates to the computer being able to run multiple programs and applications at once, while also smoothly processing demanding tasks like video editing and high-level gaming. In short, more cores allow for more advanced computing and better performance. But if your processing power needs fall below professional-level gaming and cinematic video and audio editing, getting the highest number of cores is likely overkill — and after all, more cores equals higher cost and more power usage.

RAM

Your options for RAM, or in Apple’s terminology, Unified memory, varies depending on the chip you choose. The M2 and M3 chips can be paired with 8, 16 or 24GB of RAM. The M3 Pro chip has 18 or 36GB memory options, while the most powerful M3 Max chip supports 48, 64 or a whopping 128GB of RAM.

You’ve likely heard the analogy comparing memory to the amount of workspace available on a literal desktop surface, whereas storage is the amount of drawers you have to store projects to work on later. The larger the worktop surface, the more projects you can work on at once. The bigger the drawers, the more you can save for later.

More RAM is ideal for people who plan to work in multiple apps at once. And the more demanding each program is, the more RAM will be required. Extra memory can also come in handy if you’re the type who likes to have infinite numbers of tabs open on your browser. If your daily workflow doesn’t involve simultaneously using a vast number of memory-intensive programs, you can save yourself money and buy the RAM configuration that you’re most likely to actually use.

For casual users, 8GB may be enough, however, if you can afford an upgrade to 16GB of RAM, we recommend going doing so, as modern browsers tend to be pretty memory-hungry. Investing in more RAM now will give your new MacBook a longer lifespan of reliable use. It’s also important to keep in mind that, unlike most PCs, the RAM in current-model MacBooks is not user-upgradable, so you’ll want to get what you plan on needing at the outset.

Storage capacity (SSD)

Storage options range from 256GB of SSD for the M2 MacBook Air and 8TB of storage for the MacBook Pros with the M3 Max chip. If you want to rotate between a long roster of game titles or keep lots of high-res videos on hand, you’ll want more storage. If you’re mostly working with browser- and cloud-based applications, you can get away with a smaller-capacity configuration. That said, we recommend springing for 512GB of storage or more, if it’s within your budget. You’ll quickly feel the limits of a 256GB machine as it ages since the operating system alone takes up a good portion of that space. Having 1TB will feel even roomier and allow for more data storage over the life of your laptop.

When Apple announced the iPhone 15, the company also announced new iCloud+ storage storage plans, with subscriptions that allow up to 12TB of storage. You could also transfer files to an external storage device. But if you don’t want to pay for a monthly subscription and prefer the convenience of having immediate access to your files, it’s best to get the highest amount of storage space your budget allows for at the outset.

Screen size

MacBooks come in 13-, 14-, 15- and 16-inch sizes. That might not seem like a huge difference, but, as Engadget’s Nathan Ingraham noted when he reviewed the now-retired 15-inch M2-powered MacBook Air, a larger screen "makes a surprising difference.” That’s especially true if you plan to use your laptop as an all-day productivity machine and won’t be using an external monitor. More space means you can more clearly view side-by-side windows and have a more immersive experience when watching shows or gaming.

But screen size is the main factor influencing weight. The 13-inch MacBook Air M2 weighs 2.7 pounds, whereas the top-end 16-inch MacBook Pro weighs 4.8 pounds. If you plan to travel a lot or swap your work locations regularly, a smaller screen will make life easier in the long run.

All MacBooks feature IPS LCD panels (in-plane switching, liquid crystal display), which Apple markets as Retina displays. The MacBook Air M1 has a Retina display. A Liquid Retina display comes with the M2 MacBook Air and the Liquid Retina XDR display comes with the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros. “Liquid” refers to the way the lighted portion of the display “flows” within the contours of the screen, filling the rounded corners and curving around the camera notch. “XDR” is what Apple calls HDR (high dynamic range).

Compared to most other laptops, MacBook displays are notably bright, sharp and lush. But one feature worth pointing out is another Apple marketing term: ProMotion. It’s the company’s term to describe a screen with a higher, 120Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid-looking graphics. Only the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros offer ProMotion; the other models max out at 60Hz, which is perfectly fine for everyday browsing and typical workdays. But if you want buttery-smooth motion from your display, you’ll have to shell out more money for an upgrade.

Price

When the MacBook Air M3 came out, Apple dropped the price of the base-model, 13-inch, M2-powered Air with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. With a $999 starting price, it’s now the least expensive new MacBook you can get. Alternatively, you can spend up to $7,199 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro M3 Max with 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage. Chip type, screen size, memory and storage capacity all influence the final price, which is why guides like this can help you determine just what you need (and what you don’t) so you can get the most cost-effective machine for you.

We recommend the MacBook Air M3 for most people, the MacBook Air M2 for students and those on a budget, and the 14- or 16-inch MacBook Pros for professionals. If you have extra money to spare once you’ve picked your machine, we recommend upgrading to at least 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage to make your machine as future-proof as possible.

Best MacBooks 

MacBook FAQs

What's the difference between MacBook Air and Pro?

The MacBook Air comes with a standard M3 or M2 chip. MacBook Pro models have the option of more powerful M3 Pro or M3 Max chips. The Pro has a higher resolution screen with a higher peak brightness that supports XDR (extreme dynamic range). The battery life on most Pro models is longer than on the Air models. Pro models also have more ports and more speakers. In short, the MacBook Air is aimed at everyday users looking for good productivity and entertainment capabilities, while Pro models are aimed at professionals who need a high-performance computer.

What's the difference between macOS and Windows?

MacOS is the operating system developed by Apple and used in all of its desktop and laptop computers. It can only be found in hardware made by Apple including MacBooks and iMacs. Microsoft’s Windows operating system can be found in the company’s own Surface laptops as well as computers made by a wide array of manufacturers, like Acer, Asus, Dell and Razer.

The police provided an update following a three vehicle collision in Warwick last week. A police spokesperson said, “A Government van driver involved in a collision with two cars on Middle Road, near the junction with Longford Road in Warwick around 3pm Tuesday, 9th July 2024, was arrested on suspicion of impaired driving and later […]

[Updated] A truck crashed on Middle Road in Devonshire this morning. A police spokesperson said, “Police officers are currently at the scene of a reported single vehicle collision in Devonshire. Details remain limited at this time. However, it is understood that a truck overturned along Middle Road, Devonshire, in the vicinity of Saltus Grammar [Lower […]

The police have confirmed the death of 24-year-old Shani Simmons, which marks the fourth road fatality of the year, A police spokesperson said, “Sadly, the Bermuda Police Service [BPS] can now confirm Bermuda’s fourth road fatality of 2024, 24-year-old, Shani Simmons, and extends sincere condolences to his family and friends. “As stated in the original witness appeal […]

The police have confirmed the death of 50-year-old Steve Perinchief following a collision in St George’s. A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service can now confirm the death of the 50 year old man, who was seriously injured, in a single vehicle motorcycle collision on Southside Rd., St. George’s on Saturday 24th of August 2024. The […]

The Bermuda Police Service [BPS] is “renewing the witness appeal for anyone that can assist with the ongoing investigation regarding a single vehicle motorcycle collision that claimed the life of 50-year-old Steve Perinchief, Bermuda’s fifth road fatality this year.” A police spokesperson said, “In particular, members of the public who can confirm Mr. Perinchief’s whereabouts […]

A collision involving motorcars occurred in Sandys today [Sept 9], with one driver sustaining injuries. A police spokesperson said, “Around 5:50 PM on Monday 9 September 2024, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a two vehicle collision, involving motorcars on Somerset Road Sandys in the vicinity of Lantana Drive. “Information […]

Part of Harbour Road in Paget Parish will be closed between 10:00am and 12:00pm today [Sept 19] to “allow for the placement of a crane to extract a submerged vehicle from Hamilton Harbour.” Bermuda Police Service Statement A police spokesperson said, “Please be advised that between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. today, efforts will be […]

A collision in Paget yesterday involving a car and two motorcycles resulted in one of the motorcycle riders being injured. A police spokesperson said, “Shortly after 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, police, Bermuda Fire and Rescue along with Emergency Medical Services, attended a serious road traffic collision involving a motor car and two motorcycles […]

[Updated] A two vehicle collision involving a car and a motorcycle occurred this afternoon [Sept 29] on Harbour Road in Warwick. A police spokesperson said, “Around 2:20pm Sunday, 29th September 2024, police officers responded to a reported two vehicle collision on Harbour Road in Warwick. “Details remain limited at this time. “However, it is understood […]

[Updated] Police responded to a single vehicle collision on North Shore Road in Hamilton parish this morning. A police spokesperson said, “Around 8:55am Monday, 30th September 2024, police officers responded to a reported single vehicle collision on North Shore Road in Hamilton parish. “Details remain limited at this time. “However, it is understood that a woman […]

A 30-year-old male motorcycle rider was injured in a collision in Warwick this afternoon [Oct 7]. A police spokesperson said, “Around 1:25 pm on Monday, October 7, 2024, police and other first responders attended a serious single vehicle collision involving a motorcycle at the junction of Middle Road and Ten Pin Crescent, Warwick. “Upon arrival, […]

On October 8, 2024, police found two abandoned vehicles in separate road traffic collisions in Smiths and Sandy’s, with no injuries reported. A police spokesperson said, “Around 1:25 a.m. on Monday, October 8, 2024 Police received a report of a single vehicle road traffic collision [RTC] on Middle Road, near the junction with Verdmont Road, […]

There has been a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a motorcar and a motorcycle in the area of Barnes Corner in Southampton Parish. A police spokesperson said, “There has been a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a motorcar and a motorcycle in the area of Barnes Corner, Southampton Parish. “Details are limited at […]

The police have confirmed that a 19-year-old male has died following a collision. A police spokesperson said, “Around 8:10 this morning, Friday, November 1, 2024, police officers were dispatched to a two vehicle road traffic collision involving a truck and a motorcycle, near the junction of Harrington Sound Road and Lolly’s Well Road, Smith’s. “It was […]

Police are investigating a car fire that happened in Pembroke yesterday [Nov 3], noting that “there were items recovered at the scene to suggest the fire was maliciously set.” A police spokesperson said, “Around 9:40am on Sunday, November 3, 2024, police, along with Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, responded to a report of a car […]

The police have now confirmed the death of 19-year-old Damitri Edwards. A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service [BPS] can now confirm the death of 19-year-old Damitri Edwards, who was seriously injured in a reported two vehicle collision involving a motorcycle and a truck that occurred around 8:10 A.M. on Friday, November 1, 2024, […]

The police have confirmed the death of 56-year-old man, who died following a collision in Hamilton Parish. A police spokesperson said, “Around 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024, police were dispatched to a serious road traffic collision involving two motorcycles on Blue Hole Hill, near the junction with Dolphin Drive, Hamilton Parish. “Officers arrived […]

[Opinion column written by OBA Senate Leader Ben Smith] If you repeat a lie enough times some people will start to believe it’s the truth. The PLP did a great job of repeating to everyone that the America’s Cup was bad for Bermuda. They continue to repeat this lie every time they feel the pressure […]

“We learned a lot from the America’s Cup in 2017″ and so we could “probably do it a little better” however there are “some other things that we should also be going after,” Bermuda has a “strong and long history” with sailing, and “rinse and repeat is not a tourism strategy,” are a few of […]

The police have renewed their appeal for information about the murder of Jahkoby Smith in 2017. A police spokesperson said, “Around 7:15pm on Saturday 29th July, 2017, Jahkoby Smith, was fatally stabbed after he was involved in an altercation that took place at the West End Sailboat Club, Sandys. At that time, there was a wake […]

[Updated] “Officers observed two males riding a motorcycle in a southerly direction along Khyber Pass, when the passenger discharged a firearm at police” and “officers began pursuit which eventually lead to shots being fired,” the police said today. A police spokesperson said, “Shortly after 12am on Saturday 24th of August 2024 police were responding to […]

The Bermuda Police Service said they are “aware of a social media message being circulated, reporting a firearms incident had taken place at TCD this morning” noted that it was untrue. A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service is aware of a social media message being circulated, reporting a firearms incident had taken place at […]

[Updated] “This is not the first time that officers have been shot at. But this is the first time, that in performance of their duty, BPS officers have discharged lethal weapons at another person,” the police said following the recent firearm incident Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons said, “Shortly after midnight on Saturday, August 24, 2024, […]

A White Hyundai Creta vehicle was “removed from a Paget residence” early this morning, the police said A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service is asking members of the public to be on the look out for a White Hyundai Creta, which was removed from a Paget residence during the early morning hours on Tuesday 27th […]

Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith and Acting Chief Inspector Mark Tomlinson of the Bermuda Police Service [BPS] are currently in Brazil where they are attending the 9th Americas Working Group meeting on Cybercrime. A police spokesperson said, “The officers addressed the gathering on measures and countermeasures implemented by the [BPS] to deal with cybercrime, which […]

Police have arrested three men as part of Operation Athelstan, an “operational response to the firearm incident that occurred on August 24,” with an 18-year-old male “arrested in connection with the firearm incident” and two other men “arrested on suspicion of possession of controlled drugs and drug equipment.” A police spokesperson said, “Around 3:00pm on […]

A man has been injured in a shooting in the Warwick area this evening [Sept 12] the police have confirmed. A police spokesperson said, “Shortly after 9pm on Thursday, 12 September 2024, police received several 911 calls regarding gunshots being heard in the Quarry Hill Road, Warwick area. “On arrival at the scene, it was […]

The Bermuda Police Service recovered stolen motorcycles in a Warwick search. A police spokesperson said, “On Wednesday 11th September, 2024, the Bermuda Police Service continued to progress Operation Athlestan. Members of the Serious Crime Unit assisted by the Gang Targeting Unit and Police Support Unit, executed a search warrant at a property located along South […]

The Bermuda Police Service thanked the public for their assistance with the investigation into the recent shooting, and appealed for more information as the investigation continues. A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service wishes to thank those members of the public who have so far come forward in relation to the firearms incident which occurred […]

[Updated] The police are appealing for the public’s assistance in locating a reported stolen car. A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a reported stolen car. “The vehicle involved, described as a royal blue and silver Hyundai Creta with licence plate 03028, was apparently removed from outside a […]

Police have arrested three men and “seized two firearms, a quantity of ammunition, as well as a large quantity of controlled drugs with a street value of over $700,000.” A police spokesperson said, “On Monday, September 30, officers from the Specialist Investigations Unit and Task Force conducted an operation that resulted in the arrests of […]

The Bermuda Police Service is reminding the public to “securely lock their vehicles before leaving them unattended” after four cars with keys left inside were stolen over the past nine days. A police spokesperson said, “Between Sunday, 29th September and Monday, 7th October 2024, four cars were reported stolen. Three of those vehicles were removed […]

Police are investigating an armed robbery that occurred at Robinson’s Marina in Somerset this morning [Oct 24], where a suspect “brandishing a machete, entered the service station and demanded money.” A police spokesperson said, “Shortly after 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024, police received a report of a robbery at the service station located […]

[Updated] 17-year-old Ethan Arruda has died following a stabbing incident, the police have confirmed. A police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service [BPS], is seeking the public’s assistance with the investigation into a stabbing incident which occurred at a residence on Devonshire Bay Road, Devonshire, shortly after 12:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024. “The […]

The police have released their 2021 Official Statistics Report, noting that “while total crime was reduced, the Covid-19 regulations that were in effect throughout the year, limited gatherings and social activities, and so impacted crime patterns.” Mr. Darrin Simons, Commissioner of Police said, “The Bermuda Police Service [BPS] has released its Official Statistics Report for […]

Bermudian model Aliana King has been featured once again, this time gracing the pages of a Marie Claire article exploring spring beauty trends. Ms. King has also appeared in a number of other campaigns for well-known brands, including Charlotte Tillbury, David Yurman, SKKN, FREDDY WR.UP, Nordstrom x Nike [NxN], Skims, Redken, L’Oréal, Aveda, Garnier, Maybelline, and Allure, as well as style magazines […]

[Written by Anya Thompson] The Signature Cosmetology Class at Cedarbridge Academy recently showcased their expertise in the manicure unit by inviting clients to experience a full hands-on service. This initiative allowed the students to demonstrate their skills and knowledge while being graded on various aspects of their performance. Hands-On Experience for Real-World Application The students […]

Bermudian stylist Shiona Turini helped legendary musician Usher “create a show-stopping wardrobe” for his ‘Past Present Future’ tour. A Vogue story said, “For his tour, Usher turned to stylists Yashua Simmons and Jeremy Haynes, as well as costume designer Shiona Turini, who styled Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour, as consultant to help him create a show-stopping wardrobe. […]

More than $10,000 will be “contributed to government’s coffers by traffic offenders following yesterday’s and today’s plea court sessions,” the police noted. In an online post, the police spokesperson said, “Slightly more than 10,000 dollars to be contributed to government’s coffers by traffic offenders, following yesterday’s and today’s plea court sessions. “Fines were handed down […]

[Updated] Former Senator Curtis Richardson was charged with causing the death of Marco Warren by driving without due care and attention. Appearing in Magistrates Court this morning [Nov 8], the 48-year-old was charged with causing the death of Mr Warren in May of this year by driving a vehicle, said to be a taxi, without due care […]

The Women’s Resource Centre said they are “heartened by the guilty verdict in the Chavelle Dillon-Burgess case,” noting it “is a landmark case for Bermuda, and we recognise the efforts of the Bermuda Police Service in bringing Mr. Worrell before the courts and we wait with anticipation for his sentencing next month.” Their statement follows […]

Noting they find “it very difficult to respond to a decision that is so tragic, and in no way reduces the tragedy of the loss of Chavelle Dillon-Burgess,” the Centre Against Abuse said they ”are grateful for the verdict of guilty of murder.” Their statement follows after Kamal Worrell was found guilty of the murder of Chavelle […]

“We respect the integrity of the judicial process and accept the court’s decision,” the police said following the recent trial in the Supreme Court, adding that “it is essential that we come together as a community to show empathy and understanding, as we navigate the aftermath of this trial.” This follows after Raheem Wray was found not guilty of […]

25-year-old Maurice Jones has been jailed for 30 years in the UK after being convicted of murdering a father while he was pushing his young son. A statement from the Wiltshire Police said, “Maurice Jones, 25, of Gainsborough Close, Bemerton Heath, was convicted of murder and possession of a bladed article following a two-week trial […]

The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in the UK has formally quashed Julian Washington’s conviction for murder and attempted murder. A spokesperson said,, “To secure Julian’s conviction, the prosecution in Bermuda relied upon the testimony of a DNA expert at trial. The jury were told Julian’s DNA was found on bullet casings recovered from […]

Monument Re announced today that its Isle of Man subsidiary Monument International Life Assurance Company Limited [MILAC] has completed the acquisition of the closed book portfolio of Zurich International Life Limited’s [ZILL] Singapore long term life insurance business. A spokesperson said, “The ZILL Singapore branch portfolio and employees have transferred into the Singapore branch of […]

Cohort Limited, which is a licensed corporate service provider, announced the merger with BM Corporate Services Ltd effective 3rd January 2023. The combined entity will trade and operate as Cohort Limited. Tracy Packwood, Director, Cohort Limited stated, “We are delighted to merge Cohort Limited and BM Corporate Services Ltd. We remain a manager-owned entity, involved […]