I have a Dell XPS 15 that’s 5 years old and needs a new battery. It did its job and I’m thinking I’ll buy a new laptop.

I’ve decided to try a MacBook this time around, which I’m set on. I’m open to the new MB Airs (not M1) or new/lower MB Pros.

Models of $1,800 are the absolute max, but $1,500 is more ideal. I can shave $1,000 of the cost of a Mac right now.

Is there anything I should be aware of with particular MacBook models? Is overheating an issue still, or just on the older Intel chips?

#Specs:

No idea on M2 vs M3 other than “more cores good”.

512 GB storage.

15” display preferred but could live with 13”

I like the Pro’s built in ports, but not enough to alone justify added cost. Can’t I just buy a hub? So long as I can still plug into a dock or external screen if needed.

Memory:

• 16 GB RAM minimum. I have a newer 8 GB basic desktop and a 9 year old custom PC with 16 GB and Intel i7 4770K. I easily prefer my PC.

• I do a lot of web browsing, number crunching in MS Excel files, and switching back-and-forth between a several windows.

• I’d like the flexibility to do basic photo or video editing if needed, but it’s not a regular use.

• Is 24 GB worth it for a bit more future proofing? Does this bottleneck any of the MB chips?

Any suggestions for Air vs Pro, chip, and RAM are appreciated.