---
title: 'How long can I keep my Macbook going for?'
date: '2026-05-08T09:39:56.550Z'
author: James Repatch
description: 'Exploring the benefits of extending the lifespan of your MacBook through repair services like Repatch, as opposed to buying new.'
image: https://www.pullnote.com/img/356014c6_macbookpros.jpeg
published: 2024-05-14T16:40:20.984Z
type: 'article'
url: https://www.repatch.co.uk/blog/how-long-can-i-keep-my-macbook-going-for
id: 664393f419df4bc5356014c6
---

[image https://www.pullnote.com/img/356014c6_macbookpros.jpeg priority=true schema=false]

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 **MacBook Pro** models
- **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.![](https://pullnote.com/img/356014c6_if-i-speak-im-in.jpg)