Are Older MacBooks Still Worth Buying in 2026?
· tech-debate
Are Older MacBooks Still Worth Buying in 2026?
The allure of a cheaper MacBook can be strong, especially as prices for new laptops continue to rise. However, is it still worth considering an older model? The answer depends not only on the device’s age but also on its underlying technology and how well it meets your computing needs.
For those willing to look beyond Apple’s latest releases, there are some surprising options available. MacBooks with Apple Silicon from 2020 can hold their own against newer models, provided you don’t plan on pushing them too hard. The upcoming macOS 27 Golden Gate release will likely continue to provide security updates and support for older models.
However, Intel-based MacBooks from the pre-2020 era pose a more significant risk. As Apple has largely abandoned these models in favor of its own silicon, they’re being left behind in terms of software support and security. The upcoming macOS 27 Golden Gate release will be restricted to Apple Silicon, effectively sealing the fate of older Intel-based MacBooks.
When considering an older MacBook, prioritize software support above all else. While an M1 MacBook or newer might still be a solid option if the price is right, Intel-based models are essentially outdated. Even Apple Silicon MacBooks from 2020 have limitations – they may not handle demanding workloads or provide access to the latest apps and software.
For most buyers, the safest option is indeed an Apple Silicon MacBook from 2020 or later. However, for those with technical expertise who can navigate around some of the T2 security chip limitations, there might be a way to eke out more life from their pre-M-Series MacBooks using Linux.
In practice, this is a complicated proposition. Even newer apps will eventually require a more recent version of macOS, making it harder to keep older devices running smoothly. The increasing complexity of modern software also makes it difficult for users to navigate these limitations without some technical expertise.
Ultimately, buying an older MacBook is like buying a used car – you get what you pay for. However, with the right guidance and awareness of your needs, there are still some great options available, even in an era where new laptops are getting pricier by the day.
Reader Views
- PSPriya S. · power user
While the article highlights the ongoing viability of 2020 Apple Silicon MacBooks, it glosses over another factor: repairability. With many older Macs now deemed "vintage," spare parts are becoming increasingly difficult to source, and repair services are disappearing. For environmentally conscious consumers or those on a budget, even a slightly newer MacBook may be out of reach financially – buying an older model simply shifts the problem from manufacturing emissions to e-waste generation.
- JKJordan K. · tech reviewer
While the article does a great job highlighting the challenges of older MacBooks, I think it glosses over the elephant in the room: what happens when you inevitably need to upgrade or replace your storage? Apple's T2 security chip has always made it tricky to swap out drives in these machines, and with macOS 27 Golden Gate restricting software support for Intel-based models, it's likely that even compatible SSDs will be phased out as newer MacBooks move further ahead. This is a crucial consideration for anyone planning to use an older MacBook long-term – how will you keep your storage up-to-date?
- TAThe Arena Desk · editorial
The conundrum of older MacBooks is often oversimplified. While it's true that Apple Silicon models from 2020 hold their own against newer releases, the real question is how to assess a MacBook's remaining useful life without getting bogged down in speculation about future software support. A more practical approach might be to focus on the current market landscape and factor in the cost of potential upgrades or replacements, rather than projecting several years ahead.