Black Friday and Cyber Monday might be over, but the MacBook deals are still hot. Whether you’re eyeing a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro, now is a great time to find significant price drops. For instance, the M1 MacBook Air is already available for just $599, highlighting the potential savings.
However, there’s a recent shift in MacBook configurations that impacts almost every model, and it’s crucial to understand before you buy. It’s all about the RAM. Choosing the wrong RAM configuration could cost you hundreds of dollars unnecessarily.
Someone using a MacBook Pro M4.A user working on a MacBook Pro M4. Image: Chris Hagan / MaagX
The RAM Revolution: Free Upgrade, Hidden Costs
With the release of the M4 MacBook Pros, Apple quietly upgraded the standard RAM across its MacBook lineup from 8GB to 16GB. This means the base M4 MacBook Pro, M3 MacBook Air, and M2 MacBook Air now all come with 16GB of RAM. The best part? Apple didn’t increase the price. This 16GB upgrade, previously a $200 add-on, is now free. While this is fantastic news for consumers, it adds a layer of complexity to finding the best deals.
The issue arises with third-party retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart. They often still stock the older 8GB versions, and their pricing doesn’t always reflect Apple’s change. So, when browsing MacBook deals, pay close attention to the RAM configuration.
How Much RAM Do You Really Need?
16GB of RAM is ideal for a MacBook Pro, especially at these discounted prices. However, if you’re on a tight budget and considering an 8GB model, remember that upgrade is now effectively a $200 value. If an 8GB model is only $20 or $30 cheaper, it’s simply not worth the compromise.
Beyond the Air: Navigating MacBook Pro Deals
This RAM consideration applies to MacBook Pros as well. Older generation MacBook Pros offer a great way to get Pro features—better screens, more ports, enhanced speakers, and superior webcams—at a lower cost. But be sure to do the math. Some retailers still offer 8GB versions of the M3 MacBook Pro that aren’t sufficiently discounted, or even 16GB versions that haven’t adjusted their pricing to reflect the M4’s free upgrade. For a MacBook Pro, the extra memory is usually worth it, so factor that into your decision.
Look Beyond the Specs: Subtle Differences Matter
Even seemingly identical MacBooks can have significant differences. For example, the webcam received a substantial upgrade from the M3 MacBook Pro to the M4 MacBook Pro. The M4 also boasts a screen that reaches 1,000 nits of brightness outdoors. These might not be deal-breakers for everyone, but they are valuable features to consider before making a purchase.
Conclusion: Smart Shopping for a Discounted MacBook
Finding a great MacBook deal requires careful attention to RAM configurations. Be aware of Apple’s recent free 16GB upgrade and compare prices carefully across retailers. By understanding these nuances, you can snag a discounted MacBook that will serve you well for years to come.
