How long can I keep my Macbook going for?

So you bought it 5 years ago and it's still going strong; still does everything you want - browsing the internet, making music, compositing pictures, writing essays, and presenting to the team.

So, is there a good reason to upgrade to one of the latest Macbooks (other than a desire for that sweet matte black finish)? How long should you keep a Macbook going for?

What can (and does) go wrong?

The big two are:

• Keyboard issues, especially on Pros
• Battery issues, particularly reduced life

What do you need? RAM?

The new Macbooks are configurable up to 128GB of memory - yes RAM - and 8TB of SSD storage.

When is that useful?

If you are training your own AI models, or running a Large Language AI (such as the open source LLaMA 3) then you're going to need this. If not, it's hard to see where or how that's going to be useful.

What do you need? Power?

You can also have a 16‑core CPU and 40‑core GPU.

When is that useful?

If you are rendering multiple movie effects simultaneously because making high-end hollywood blockbusters is what you do then that's all going to make your workflow faster.

But what about gaming?

Yes, that is a good point - you might even be able to play some PC games now. IF they ever come out on OSX.

Cost Considerations

Upgrading to a new Macbook is a significant financial decision. The new ones are NOT CHEAP and is it going to do anything your new one can't for you in the real world?

Environmental Impact

Keeping your older Macbook running longer can also have environmental benefits.

By reducing waste and the demand for new products, you contribute to lessening the environmental impact associated with tech product manufacturing and disposal.

Car analogy

A brand new electric supercar might smash the stats when bragging rights are required, but in the real world they still handle traffic and legal speed limit roads pretty much the same. And even though your old car is petrol, the manufacturing impact of buying brand new will take years to outweigh the environmental benefits of keeping that old gal going a bit longer.

What are my options if I do want to keep it going?

The good news is most of the issues are completely fixable - and Repatch is on hand to help with dodgy keyboards, broken screens and wimpish battery life.

Repatch it!

Repatch offers a convenient, fast service that doesn't just save you money; it also helps save the planet. Repairing your Macbook with Repatch can keep it running as good as new while contributing to a broader effort against unnecessary waste. This is not only economically savvy but deeply aligned with sustainable practices. So next time you consider upgrading, remember that Repatch can breathe new life into your current Macbook at a fraction of the cost of a new one.