What laptop to buy

Note that Mac laptops using 'base' M1, M2, and M3 chips only support one external monitor. These include all of the M1/M2 MacBook Airs, all of the 13" M1/M2 MacBook Pros, and the entry-level 14" M3 MacBook Pro.

If you're going for a two-monitor setup, you could consider:

• A 14" MBP based on one of the "Pro" chips
• A Thunderbolt docking station to which you can attach two non-Thunderbolt monitors
• The two monitors
• A full-size keyboard and mouse (wireless, or attached to the docking station)

This might let you dock and undock the computer with just a single Thunderbolt cable.

M1, M2 or M3, will be a function of the model you choose. Its like asking what engine do you recommend? A 100HP a 250HP , or a 500HP ? That is a function of the model chosen.

You can't get the M1 except on the cheap entry level models.

You only get M2 on the middle of the road MacBook Airs.

You won't get an M3, except on the newer higher end MacBook Pro models.

How much are you looking to spend? Budget will kind of determine what model to start with.

Rule of thumb, get as much RAM as budget allows. And, if you don't plan on getting an external hard drive, get as much SSD storage as budget allows.

Obviously if budget is not a concern, the M3, 14" MacBook Pro with 2TB SSD and 64GB or RAM would be the choice.

But if you can't or don't want to spend $3600 USD on one, then budget is important.

Personally, I'd go for the entry level M3, with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for your type of use.

$2199.

From your description, I recommend the entry level MacBook Air.

But to future proof your computer, buy as much RAM and storage as you can afford.

For what you describe as your normal work, it won't matter which CPU you choose, all will be more capable than you actually need.

For your needs, I recommend an entry level M2 MacBook Air

Hello ~ Purchase whichever meets your needs and budget. Compare here…

Compare Mac models — Apple Official Site

~Katana-San~