Should You Update Your MacBook Pro Every Time a New OS Comes Out?

The age-old question of whether to update your MacBook Pro to the latest operating system (OS) every time a new version is released often sparks debate among tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. While some might argue that staying at the cutting edge is essential, others believe in the longevity and reliability of older hardware. This article aims to explore the pros and cons of always updating, with a focus on the long-term cost-effectiveness and performance of your Mac.

Longevity and Cost-Effectiveness of Older MacBooks

One of the key advantages of choosing a MacBook Pro over a Windows laptop is its longevity and reliability. Many seasoned users have reported that their older MacBooks, such as those from the 2009 era or even earlier, continue to function well beyond what a typical Windows laptop would manage. For instance, my 2009 MacBook Pro, which has been retired from its frontline duties, still remains operational and even runs my primary applications efficiently.

Comparatively, many Windows laptops have a lifespan of only about three years, making the investment in a newer, more expensive MacBook a sound long-term financial decision. This cost-effectiveness is further emphasized by the fact that if your current MacBook Pro lasts through one replacement cycle, you're essentially gaining a benefit over an equivalent Wintel machine.

Historical Support and Performance of Older Models

The durability of older models is not just anecdotal. A well-known example is the MacBook Pro 2011, which received support from macOS versions as recent as Big Sur. This means that an 11-year-old laptop can still perform at a level acceptable for many tasks, including coding. This longevity makes the idea of constantly upgrading to the latest OS less compelling for those who value reliability and value.

While some argue that you should replace your MacBook when you no longer have a use for it, a personal preference for using older and much more cost-effective hardware speaks to a larger debate about sustainability in technology. For instance, I continue to use an 11-year-old Dell and an 8-year-old Chromebook for various tasks, running Linux distributions like MX Linux and Kubuntu. I find these systems to be perfectly adequate for my needs, and it’s not just about the hardware; the software compatibility and performance are still robust.

Personal Experience and Lessons Learned

My own experience with upgrading my MacBook Pro in December 2019 from a 2011 13-inch model to a 16-inch model was an early indication of potential long-term use. Although I currently don’t have the financial or technical reasons to justify upgrading to an M1 model, I am still benefiting from the longevity of my older systems. This isn't to say that newer models don’t have their advantages, but the cost-benefit analysis often makes older systems a better choice for those looking for reliability and long-term use.

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade every time a new OS comes out is a personal one. However, unless you have specific reasons to upgrade for performance or new features, the cost-effectiveness and reliability of older MacBooks should be given serious consideration. The perseverance of older systems not only saves money but also supports a more sustainable approach to technology use.

Conclusion

While the allure of new technology is hard to resist, the practicality and long-term use of older MacBooks cannot be ignored. By choosing to stick with your current system as much as possible, you can save money and promote a more sustainable use of resources. Just like with any technology, the choice to update should be driven by necessity and not just the presence of a new update.