Is Apple MacBook worth to buy for a programmer?

Jan 26
18:20

2020

Nyasa Apple

Nyasa Apple

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The Apple MacBook is a sturdy, sleek machine. No doubt it is expensive, but the features are captivating & worth exploring. As far as programming is concerned, agreed that it is a different ball game altogether and Apple is known more for its design of products.

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The earlier versions of Apple MacBook may tilt towards a little leaner side for programming however the recent versions,Is Apple MacBook worth to buy for a programmer? Articles in particular, the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch & the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch are more proficient in programming.

The Apple MacBook Pro 16'’ from 2019, with 64GB RAM is a much-desired machine for developers. The limited capacity RAM in the earlier versions or due to lack of some other features, the MacBook has not been very conducive to programming. With limited capacities of 16GB RAM earlier let’s say, these weren’t equipped to handle to execute certain simulators in Xcode along with a simultaneous run of other apps. Despite with upgradiation to 32GB, there were still performance lags. This version of MacBook Pro is equipped of running Xcode and the simulators without overheating or making the user to face any any “running out of application memory” warnings.

Every iOS developer is aware of the criticality of build times. Even a small improvement can boost productivity as the wait time is less between builds while the writing and testing of new codes is being done. Any fresh build time or even an incremental build time has been drastically cut down with the 16” MacBook Pro. With this MacBook Pro, the waiting time has been reduced to as much as half.

This MacBook also function with lesser noise of the fans. It has an effective level of thermal management. This makes using this laptop way more comfortable and convenient for programming. The battery life is also quite sustainable for certain heavy-duty code applications, for which it can last an entire working day. While for less intensive applications, the battery could last the entire 11 hours.

Packed with the least of six cores in the 2.6GHz i7 processor (with Turbo Boost up to 4.5GHz) and at least a 4GB AMD Radeon Pro 5300M graphics card, this MacBook is ideal for programming.

In general, utility applications like Automator can also increase productivity. Features such as Screen Split, Dock, Gestures, and Force Trackpad are meant to make multi-tasking an achievable task. For programming on Linux based servers, MacBook is the best bet. MacBook does not require as many reboots & barely crashes. The iOS is flawless, smooth, simple & well placed. Whether you use git, python, ruby, node, elixir, erlang or just about any language, including java and C# - all of them run directly, no settings required. 

The MacBook were the pioneers to introduce technologies like aluminium unibody construction, super-sharp IPS screens, backlit keyboards, and multi-touch trackpads to the fore in the industry. All of these are basic requirements for comfortable programming as the strenuous task demands long hours in front of the screen.

While it is good to answer certain questions on the use of programming for MacBook like-

  • Whether you’d be doing any CAD/video editing/photo editing and also prepare a list of the programs that you intend to run.
  • Any specific requirements that you seek such as a well-defined keyboard, reliable build quality, touch-screen, finger-print reader, optical drive or good input devices (keyboard/touchpad)?
  • Importance of weight and thinness in your laptop
  • Preference for two in one factor, good battery life or best specifications for money
  • Preferred screen size and OS requirement
  • Finally, Total budget and place of manufacture.

Surely there may be other laptops preferred by programmers but MacBook leave a lasting impact and perform seamlessly with a long shelf life. With increasing tech capacity, the MacBook is gradually also pacing close being the preferred choice for programmers.

Invest in a MacBook and only then will you know it’s worth. Compatible with all idevices. Secure environment, seamless execution & sturdy build are on the face of its basic requirements in demand for programming.