Is this laptop suitable for rendering and school work?

Discussion
1

I’m considering purchasing a laptop for both my school work and rendering tasks. I’m looking for opinions on whether the model I have in mind would be a good fit. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
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2

Nope

3

Avoid Intel MacBooks at this point. Even with a budget of around £500, you can find a used or refurbished MacBook Air M1, which would be a much better choice.

4

Monroe said:
Avoid Intel MacBooks at this point. Even with a budget of around £500, you can find a used or refurbished MacBook Air M1, which would be a much better choice.

I wouldn’t recommend a MacBook at all currently.

5

@Nova
For school-related tasks, an Apple Silicon MacBook is excellent.

6

Noor said:
@Nova
For school-related tasks, an Apple Silicon MacBook is excellent.

However, they’re not the best for rendering tasks in software like C4D, where Windows machines often perform better.

7

Noor said:
@Nova
For school-related tasks, an Apple Silicon MacBook is excellent.

At that price point, you can get a more powerful Windows machine that outperforms MacBooks, making them not worth the cost.

8

@Nova
The M series Macs excel in power efficiency, which is a significant advantage over many Windows laptops. If budget allows, they are still a strong option.

9

Archer said:
@Nova
The M series Macs excel in power efficiency, which is a significant advantage over many Windows laptops. If budget allows, they are still a strong option.

True, they perform well if you can find them at a reasonable price.

10

@Nova
Exactly, the M4 Mac mini at $600 is an example of good value from Apple.

11

@Nova
MacBooks are incredibly efficient. Even during intensive tasks like rendering, they consume less power, resulting in better battery life compared to most Windows laptops.

12

@Nova
It’s tough to find similar power and build quality at the same price in a Windows machine.

13

If you’re considering a Mac, only go for the Apple Silicon models. Older Intel Macs are outdated.

14

For the same budget, you’re better off with a new Windows laptop. Intel’s 8th gen CPUs are severely outdated now that Intel is on its 15th gen, and Apple has switched to its own silicon.

15

Only consider Apple Silicon models like the M1 for up-to-date technology. All previous versions are considered obsolete.

16

If a laptop is essential, opt for a used Apple Silicon MacBook Air. If a desktop is feasible, the M4 Mac mini offers the best performance for the price with inexpensive peripherals.

17

Weston said:
If a laptop is essential, opt for a used Apple Silicon MacBook Air. If a desktop is feasible, the M4 Mac mini offers the best performance for the price with inexpensive peripherals.

Alternatively, consider a Windows laptop with a newer NVIDIA GPU like the 4060, which might offer better performance for your needs than an Apple device.

18

@Amal
Keep in mind, though, a good GPU might push the budget beyond £500.

19

Renny said:
@Amal
Keep in mind, though, a good GPU might push the budget beyond £500.

True, but for rendering tasks, a robust GPU is crucial. It might be worth expanding the budget or considering used options.

20

That model is overpriced for its specs. It might be worth considering if the price drops significantly.