Is the 2014 MacBook Pro Still Worth Buying in 2020?

TL;DR

The 2014 MacBook Pro remains a viable choice for basic tasks and students in 2020, especially if upgraded with an SSD. While it features solid build quality and excellent connectivity options like USB and HDMI, users may find limitations with the keyboard and trackpad. Overall, it provides decent performance for video editing and light programming, alongside lasting software support.

Transcript

welcome back to the channel everyone a quick little upload actually I honestly don't know how long this video is going to be but recently I bought a bunch of Mac books and I really want to start reviewing them but I want to talk about the first Mac book I ever owned and I was actually using this for a majority of the videos that I post this on this... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍🎓 The 2014 MacBook Pro remains a solid choice for basic computing needs, especially for students and casual users.
• 🥶 Its Retina display, though older, continues to provide a sharp, clear visual experience that many content creators appreciate.
• 👤 Connectivity features like HDMI and USB-A ports make the device user-friendly for those who prefer avoiding dongles.
• 🙂 The performance of the 2014 model can still be adequate for video editing and light programming if upgraded with an SSD.
• 🥶 While the older keyboard design lacks the advancements of newer models, it is preferred by some users for its reliability and feel.
• 🥶 Continuous software support for the 2014 MacBook Pro contrasts with many older Windows laptops, offering better longevity for Apple users.
• 👤 Users should be aware of potential issues with screen lamination and should check if repairs have been made when purchasing a used model.

Questions & Answers

Q: What were your main tasks while using the 2014 MacBook Pro?

I used the 2014 MacBook Pro primarily for video editing with Final Cut Pro, programming, and completing college assignments. It handled these tasks well without significant performance issues, even with the base model's specifications. The eight gigabytes of RAM and 128 gigabytes of storage were sufficient for my needs at that time.

Q: How does the screen quality compare to newer MacBook models?

The 2014 MacBook Pro features a Retina display with a resolution of 2560 by 1600, which, according to my experience, is still quite impressive. While newer models have slightly better screens, the quality of this panel holds up well for most users without noticeable deterioration in usability.

Q: What are the key differences between the 2014 and 2015 MacBook Pro?

The 2015 MacBook Pro offers several enhancements, including improvements in processing power with quad-core CPUs. However, for casual use, the 2014 model remains functional and reliable. The 2015 saw upgrades in RAM, storage options, and the introduction of an SSD, which significantly boosted performance.

Q: Which macOS version do you recommend for the 2014 MacBook Pro?

I recommend keeping the 2014 MacBook Pro on macOS Mojave or Sierra for optimal performance. Users have reported issues with Catalina, particularly concerning older hardware. Mojave strikes a balance between compatibility and performance, allowing for a smoother experience.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The reviewer shares their personal experience with the 2014 MacBook Pro, which served as their primary device during content creation. They praise its performance, particularly for video editing and programming.

• The MacBook's build quality features a glowing Apple logo and multiple ports, including USB, HDMI, and an SD card slot, enhancing its functionality for users who dislike relying on dongles.

• While some limitations exist, such as the older keyboard design and trackpad, the reviewer emphasizes the device's ongoing software support, making it a viable choice for students seeking affordability.