If you’re in the market for a MacBook, you’ve probably come across the big debate: should you go for one of the older Intel-based MacBooks or spend more on a newer model with Apple’s own M-Series chip (like the M1, M2, or M3)? Apple’s made a huge leap with these new chips, but that doesn’t mean the Intel models are totally irrelevant. In fact, depending on your needs, they might still be the smarter buy—especially for your wallet.
💸 Why Intel MacBooks Are Still Worth Considering
Let’s talk about the biggest advantage first: price. You can grab a refurbished or used Intel MacBook Pro or Air for hundreds less than even the base M2 model. And we’re not talking about junky machines—many of these are still fast, have Retina displays, and handle everyday tasks just fine. If you’re mostly using your laptop for things like writing, browsing, watching Netflix, or basic work stuff, you might not even notice a difference.
🖥 Bonus: They Run Windows (If That Matters to You)
Another perk of Intel Macs? They can run Windows through Boot Camp. That’s something Apple Silicon Macs can’t do natively (at least not without workarounds). If you need access to Windows apps for school or work, or you just like having both macOS and Windows on one machine, this could be a dealbreaker in favor of Intel.
⚠️ But There Are Some Trade-Offs
Now, don’t get me wrong—there are some downsides. Intel Macs generally have worse battery life, they run hotter, and they’re louder because of the fans. Meanwhile, the M-Series Macs are shockingly quiet, run cool, and can easily last over 15 hours on a single charge.
Performance-wise, M-Series chips are in a whole different league. If you’re editing videos, running a ton of apps, or using design software like Final Cut or Photoshop, the M1 and beyond will feel much snappier.
And then there’s the software support factor. Apple’s moving full-speed ahead with their own chips. While they’re still updating Intel models for now, it’s safe to say they won’t be supported forever. You might miss out on some future features or updates a bit sooner than you’d like.
👍 Final Thoughts
Here’s the bottom line: If you’re on a budget and don’t need cutting-edge power, an Intel MacBook still has plenty of life in it—and you’ll save a good chunk of change. But if you want the newest tech, longer battery life, and the best long-term value, M-Series is the way to go.
It really depends on what you need, how much you want to spend, and how long you plan to keep your laptop. For lots of people, the savings alone make the Intel MacBook a smart buy—even in 2025.
