Intel vs Apple Silicon MacBooks: Is it Time to Upgrade?
Intel Core i7 MacBooks are cheap, but do they stand up to the efficiency and speed of Apple’s entry-level M-Series chips? Here is our side-by-side technical review.
Many buyers are tempted by cheap Intel-based MacBook Pro models from 2018 or 2019. While a 15-inch or 16-inch Core i7 MacBook Pro with 16GB of RAM looks like a bargain on paper, the real-world experience tells a different story.
The Efficiency Gap
Intel chips run hot and drain batteries rapidly. If you use Google Chrome, compile code, or edit video, you will hear the internal fans spin up to full volume almost immediately. In comparison, Apple Silicon chips (M1, M2, M3) use ARM architecture, offering unmatched performance-per-watt efficiency.
macOS Support Lifespan
Apple has shifted its operating system focus completely to Apple Silicon. Newer macOS versions phase out features and updates for Intel models. Buying an Apple Silicon MacBook guarantees your machine stays updated, secure, and compatible with the latest developer tools for years to come.