MacBook Pro 2016 13 inch vs 15 inch

If you're looking for a real deal, check out the 2015 model (still being produced, so still brand new): http://www.apple.com/shop/buy-mac/macbook-pro?product=MJLQ2LL/A&step=config#

The last I saw, it was also available at B&H Photo for even less ($1849), and Best Buy had a sale on it recently for a significant price reduction.

Here's a writeup I did for someone else:

The 15", obviously, has a larger display.

It also has 16GBs of RAM vs 8 for the 13" which will become more and more important over time as apps and OSes get more and more RAM hungry. RAM is not upgradeable in these models.

The 2015 15" is a bit slower doing single core (light weight work) tasks, but is almost twice the speed of the 2016 13" in multi core tasks.

The 2015 15" has a full array of ports/connections (two USB 3, two Thunderbolt 2, HDMI, SDXC slot, digital/analog headphone jack, MagSafe 2 connection), while the 13" has two or four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports which will require adapters (rather costly and something extra to hookup/carry) for many peripherals.

The 15" is the last in a line of tried and true MBPs. The 2016 13" is the first in the line of problem plagued MBPs; many people find the Touch Bar to be more of a gimmick than useful, and it also has its problems.

Just something to consider. 🙂 I think it's the best Mac notebook value.

Hi,

Both will serve your stated needs. Eight GBs of RAM will definitely suffice for now, but how far into the future is questionable, as OSes and apps are getting more and more RAM hungry. Personally, I'd get the 15" for the bigger display, the 16GBs of RAM, and the four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports.

Personal opinion...

1. To see what screen size is best for you, go to a physical store, and test the two sizes; most people prefer the larger screen size unless portability is the primary concideration.

2. Based on your usage requirements, 8 GB is sufficient, but as the saying goes, you can't ever have too much RAM; buy as much as you can afford and justify.

I guess you're asking the wrong guy. I'v been carrying around a 15" Mac notebook since 2002. I love how small and light these newer ones are. And the 15" are only a pound lighter than the 13". If the extra footprint of a 15" is more of a con than the rest of the factors are pros, then I guess the 13" is the one for you.

I've traveled to several continents on business with my 15" MacBook Pro and have never had any issues with portability. I prefer the larger display. I also prefer as much RAM as possible. I'm sure the 13 inch will travel as well. So make your decision based on your preferred display size. Go compare the computer displays side-by-side. It comes down to personal preference since both will do the job.