MacBook Air in 2017: Should You Buy Without Gaming Needs?

Choosing the right laptop in 2017, especially if you're not into gaming, can be tricky. Should I buy a MacBook Air in 2017 if I don't do gaming? This question has hit many a tech enthusiast's mind. Let's break down the pros, cons, and alternatives to help you decide.

Why Buy a MacBook Air in 2017?

Before diving into the 'no's, it's important to highlight why some argue in favor of the MacBook Air. Here are a few reasons:

Compatibility with Apple Ecosystem: If you're already part of the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone, iPad, and iPod, the MacBook Air offers seamless integration. Sharing files and managing devices becomes a breeze. Design and Build Quality: The MacBook Air’s lightweight design and extended battery life make it a convenient choice for users who travel often or need a lightweight device that can last throughout the day. Brand Loyalty: For Apple fans, the MacBook Air is a logical step-up from the iPad, providing a more powerful computing experience without breaking the bank.

Is a MacBook Air Worth Buying in 2017?

While a MacBook Air can be a solid pick, especially for non-gaming tasks, there are situations where other options might be more suitable. Here's when you might want to consider an alternative:

When Budget is a Concern

For a casual user with a limited budget, it might not be the best choice. The higher price point of a MacBook Air in 2017 can be steep for the hardware it provides. Specifically, the 2017 models were not only overpriced but also underpowered for everyday tasks. Consider these alternatives:

HP Envy (around ￡650): Offers a balance of performance and design for a reasonable price. HP Pavilion 700 (around ￡670): Similar to the Envy, but with a bit more power and features. Acer Swift 3 (around ￡650): Known for its affordability and speed, ideal for budget-conscious users.

When You Need More Power

If you frequently work with multimedia or want to tackle tasks that require more computational power, a MacBook Air in 2017 might lag behind in performance. Here are some alternatives:

Notebook Laptops: Models like the Dell XPS 13 or HP Spectre x360 feature more powerful 8th Gen Intel processors and come with better graphics capabilities, making them suitable for photo and video editing, as well as web browsing and streaming. Windows Laptop Options: A high-end Windows laptop with a 4th or 5th Gen Intel processor, 128GB SSD, and 8GB RAM can be found for around the same price, often offering superior performance for non-gaming tasks.

Why Not to Consider a MacBook Air in 2017?

Despite its appeal, there are several reasons to avoid the MacBook Air in 2017:

Underpowered Hardware: The 2017 MacBook Air, powered by 5th Gen Intel processors, might not be powerful enough for demanding tasks or even basic video editing. Screen Quality: The 13-inch screen resolution is not Full HD, which can be less than ideal for detailed work or presentations. High Price Tag: Compared to other laptops with similar performance, the MacBook Air was often overpriced, making it less attractive to budget-conscious buyers.

Conclusion

The decision to buy a MacBook Air in 2017, especially for non-gaming purposes, depends on your budget, needs, and lifestyle. If you want a reliable, powerful, and seamless experience within the Apple ecosystem and are willing to pay higher prices, a MacBook Air can be a great choice. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option with comparable performance, consider alternative laptops from other manufacturers. Happy shopping!