Should You Upgrade to the New M1 MacBook Pro 13 Inch in November 2020?

On November 1, 2020, Apple released the 16-inch MacBook Pro with the i9 processor. However, on the same day, they also introduced the new M1 chip MacBook Pro in a 13-inch model. As a potential buyer on the fence about upgrading, you may be asking yourself if it's the right time to make the switch. This article aims to help you make an informed decision based on the pros and cons of each option.

Trade-In vs Upgrade: What to Consider

When you purchased your 16-inch MacBook Pro i9 on November 1, 2020, you might have been eyeing the new M1 chip MacBook Pro 13-inch released on November 11, 2020. However, you now find yourself in a dilemma: should you upgrade to the new model while it is still available? Here are some key points to consider:

Performance and Design Trade-Offs

The M1 chip is indeed a powerful CPU that outperforms the i9 processor in many tasks. However, the new 13-inch model has a smaller screen and fewer USB-C ports, which could be a drawback depending on your needs. The GPU performance is also weaker compared to the 16-inch model.

Options for the Future

Instead of immediately upgrading, I recommend holding onto your current 16-inch MacBook Pro until Apple releases an arm-based version of the 16-inch model. The new M1 chip MacBook Pro is likely to remain a solid choice if you do not need a specific feature that the 16-inch model provides.

Risk of Loss

Currently, you have more than 14 days of ownership, which means returning the laptop would be difficult. Additionally, upgrading to the new M1 chip model will mean sacrificing a larger screen and losing two Thunderbolt 3 ports. Boot Camp or virtualization for Windows will also no longer be available.

Resell and Trade-In Value

If you choose to hold onto your 16-inch MacBook Pro, you should keep an eye on its resale value. Alternatively, you can consider trading it in at the Apple Store when Apple releases an adequate replacement in the near future. This will give you a better opportunity to invest in the latest model without feeling like you're forfeiting too much of your current investment.

Special Considerations for Power Users

For power users who frequently need to run Boot Camp or boot into Windows operating systems, it might be a good idea to hold onto your Intel processor machine. The M1 chip does not currently support Boot Camp, which might limit your flexibility in certain scenarios. Therefore, it's worth considering maintaining your current setup if you anticipate needing to dual-boot.

Conclusion

The decision to upgrade to the new M1 chip MacBook Pro 13-inch or stick with your existing 16-inch MacBook Pro i9 depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you don't require a larger screen and Thunderbolt ports, and you are looking for immediate performance gains, the M1 chip is an excellent choice. However, if you have long-term plans and are concerned about the trade-offs, it might be more prudent to wait for an arm version of the larger model. Keep an eye on the resale value and trade-in offers from Apple, and you can make a more informed decision in the future.