Which MacBook Pro - 2015 2.9 i7 or 2016 2.0 i5

Hi all,


I want to upgrade my MacBooK Pro and want advice on which to choose; the MacBook Pro Retina 2015 2.9 i7 (8gb RAM, 512gb SSD) or 2016 2.0 i5 (8gb RAM, 512gb SSD) - they are priced the same.


The biggest drawback for me with the new model is the lack of ports so I'll have to spend money on a lot of adaptors....


Any advice?

MacBook Pro, OS X El Capitan (10.11.5)

Posted on Mar 14, 2017 9:57 AM

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11 replies

Mar 14, 2017 12:35 PM in response to cavemees

I know what you mean, but I'm still wondering if I should get over that and buy a few adaptors..


Might the newer model last me longer, hold value longer, be generally a faster/better machine etc. I won't be upgrading again for 2/3 years...


Or might this entry level model be not quite good enough.. I read something about it being just barely a Pro and should really be thought of as the new Air... Is the spec as good as the 2015 I mention?

Mar 14, 2017 2:17 PM in response to cavemees

I tried doing that but just kept going around in circles, both seem the better option for different things. This is why I came here, for a second opinion...


To give a frame of reference, I am mostly writing with it but do also do some occasional video editing and photoshop work, and will also do quite a few presentations with it; using keynote or just showing flicking through PDFs and screening of various video clips.

Mar 14, 2017 3:14 PM in response to beanwalls

I am mostly writing with it

You're used to the keyboard of your current macbook pro. If you want a traditional MacBook Pro typing experience, you want the 2015 model. MacBook Pro 2016 uses a new flatter keyboard with domes and butterfly switches, you may like or dislike it. Would recommend to visit a store and experience yourself if you like this new style keyboard.

Mar 14, 2017 4:48 PM in response to cavemees

Good point. I have tried it. I don't like it, but I'm assuming that's the way they are all going so I'll have to get used to it eventually..? I was set on the 2015 but am now trying to be smart about which I get -- ie get the machine that is the best spec for the money and will be future proofed the longest....


If the 2015 model is the way to go then that's fine by me, I'm just looking to get opinions from those who might have more insight into how these two machines compare...


Thanks for the advice so far, it's incredibly help and very much appreciated.

Mar 14, 2017 4:56 PM in response to beanwalls

I have the 2016 13 Inch MacBook Pro 2GHz and a 2014 15 inch MacBook Pro.

The 2016 has been replaced twice by Apple because of screen flicker issues - google it.

The 2014 has never seen Apple since I bought it.

With the 2016, there are times I forget to bring the usb adapter with me - which makes whatever I have at work useless.

You want something that will last you a few years? Stick with the 2015, sure the 2016 might have a higher value in the future, but the 2015 have the i7 so the difference won't be that much when you decide to sell it in the future.

In any event, the end decision is up to you. Regardless of which one you purchase, I'm sure you'll be happy with it.

Mar 15, 2017 2:29 PM in response to beanwalls

Mostly writing? Be very careful. I too am mostly writing. Plus video editing and color correcting images.


The butterfly keyboard of the 15" 2016 MBP Touch Bar proved to be major problem for me. I've tried hard for three weeks, but the typing did not improve.


There were several other issues (sudden color hue shifts, WIFI reception, stuck key, and more) so I had to return the machine. Such a frustrating experience.


I am now back at my 2014 15" MBP -- typing is fun again. Not sure where to go next: I could get a 2015 15" MBP or wait till Apple has fixed the kinks of the new machines. I will not buy a new model as long as the keyboard is in its present problematic state.

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Which MacBook Pro - 2015 2.9 i7 or 2016 2.0 i5

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