Should the Butterfly Keyboard Ruin Your MacBook Pro Purchase?

Thebutterfly keyboard,used in MacBook models from 2015 to 2019, faced significant criticism for its unreliability. Issues included key sticking and a lack of tactile feedback, leading to numerous customer complaints. Thankfully, Apple addressed these concerns by switching to a more reliable scissor-switch design with the 2020 models and beyond.

Choosing Between the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air

When deciding which model to purchase between a MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, there are several factors to consider:

Keyboard

For models from 2020 and later, both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro feature the new Magic Keyboard, which has been well-received. However, if you're looking at older models, be cautious of the butterfly keyboard. The Magic Keyboard offers a much better typing experience with its improved tactile feedback and reduced issue rates.

Performance

The MacBook Pro generally provides better performance, making it ideal for demanding tasks such as video editing, software development, and graphic design. If you require that extra power, the MacBook Pro might be the better choice.

Portability

Measuring just a few ounces and boasting a longer battery life, the MacBook Air is the lighter and more portable option. It's perfect for those who frequently need to carry their computer around or for everyday computing tasks.

Price

The MacBook Air is typically less expensive than the MacBook Pro, making it a more budget-friendly option for many users.

Usage Needs

Assess your specific needs. For light tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, the MacBook Air is usually sufficient. However, for more intensive tasks, the MacBook Pro is better suited.

My Experience with External Keyboards

Even though I can live with any laptop's keyboard, given that at least one of my thumbs tends to rest on the trackpad with unpredictable results, I've exclusively used external keyboards on them. I find that the Magic keyboards, now used in the most recent models, are a welcome improvement. They offer a more responsive typing experience.

My experience at work further reinforces my dislike for internal keyboards. I had to rely on brute force with the Intel keyboards by pounding on them to make them work, much like a boxer beating a punching bag. The issue was exacerbated by the fact that too much touch or pressure could either cause the keys to register too quickly or not at all. A firm, snappy hit worked best for me.

So, while the butterfly keyboard may have caused frustration for many, the Magic keyboards in the newer MacBook models have surely improved the overall typing experience for me and many others.

Ultimately, the choice between a MacBook Pro and MacBook Air should be based on your personal requirements, budget, and intended use. If you're comfortable with the newer Magic keyboards, the decision will be much simpler.