If you are considering the M4 Pro, one significant advantage is that it features Thunderbolt 5 ports—something that could be beneficial in the future, especially if you plan to use a dock like those offered by CalDigit. I recently acquired a used CalDigit TS3+ Thunderbolt 3 dock for $90 through Facebook Marketplace, and I’m optimistic that prices for future models like the TS5 or TS5+ will decrease as time goes on. There is a compelling reason to contemplate a refurbished M2-Pro or M3-Pro machine.
Using a Mac that is 1-2 years behind the current model typically has minimal impact, especially if you intend to keep it for 10-14 years. However, I anticipate waiting until next year for upgrades. If a Tandem OLED display becomes available, it may be worth the wait.
My current 2011 model is still functional, but it is becoming increasingly insufficient for my needs. As we approach spring, it’s essential to be mindful of the speed at which time passes. With that in mind, some may ask why not wait for M6 or M7 models.
After all, someone currently using a 14-year-old machine can afford to be patient. However, the financial implications are significant; living in Eastern Europe, the price of a MacBook could cover four months’ rent or even a used vehicle. For those looking at refurbished options, it’s worth noting that M5 units won’t be available until next year.
Given the age of the Intel machine in question, performance may not be a pressing concern. However, it’s vital to recognize that the M3 Pro is somewhat of an outlier in the Pro chip series, with lower performance core counts as compared to the M1, M2, and M4, alongside reduced memory bandwidth. If your work largely revolves around light tasks such as word processing, music, photo/video editing, internet browsing, and communications, the recent availability of the M4 in the refurb shop presents an attractive opportunity to upgrade.
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