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Can you survive with only a MacBook and no external display?

2 points by NarcisMirandes ↗ HN
I need a new Mac. I will use it for design and programming, especially Xcode. Now, I work with an old Intel iMac. I cannot update the software anymore. So, I cannot wait. These are the options that I consider.

1- MacBook Pro. M3 PRO. 14-inch. 11-core CPU, 14-core GPU, 18 RAM, 512GB SSD. 1,999.00 US. - I love the look and feel - It's powerful - I cannot afford an Apple external display. I like very much the Studio Display, but I cannot pay 1,599 US.

I know there are a lot of cheaper non-Apple displays. I have searched a lot of them and try it. I do not like any of them. It's another philosophy that is very different from Apple. They are not for me. Before that, I would prefer an iMac.

2- iMac. M3. 24 inch. 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD. 1,899 US. - I do not love it, but if I choose the silver color, it's ok… Sort of. - Not very powerful for programming. But coming from an Intel iMac, I suppose it's an improvement. - It has a decent screen. For me, it's better than any 17 non-Apple external displays. (I know, I know, not everybody will agree, and I respect that. It's a personal preference. I value other things beyond resolution and nits) - I do not need to move much. On those rare occasions, I have an iPad. - I suppose it's the best rational decision

I have to choose between power or screen, love or mind.

I would like to know the experience of other programmers. Would you be able to survive with a fantastic computer you love and a small screen?

If you only have 2,000, what would you do?

8 comments

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sevenseventen
I've been working exclusively on MBPro's, no external screen, for going on 10 years.

There are issues, usually related to screen sharing from people using giant monitors. Some developer applications assume you're on a huge monitor. Not every sidecar can be hidden, not every grid has resizable columns.

In the end, though, I would never switch from leaning back on a couch to leaning forward at a desk.

NarcisMirandes
Good to know. I suppose that with some adaptation time, I will be able to work with the 14-screen only, too.
jtotheh
I have an M1 MacBook pro and the screen (16") is wonderful. I have an external 4K monitor that was only 400$ and it is not as nice a screen, I'm not sure why-refresh rate? underlying technology?

Anyway, I mostly use it with no external monitor and find it very nice, including Xcode. You can also always plan on getting a monitor later when you can afford it. Maybe think about 16" instead of 14"? Possibly deals can be had on apple silicon machines that are not the latest?

NarcisMirandes
I like the 16, but it's out of my budget now. I suppose I will have to try to survive with the 14 Pro only and save for a Studio Display later.
BorisMelnik
yes been working on a 14" thinkpad also for about 10 years. I love it for productivity, it keeps me very focused on the task at hand; 1 tab/window at a time.

I do occasionally use my desk at work with 2 giant 27" monitors when I'm doing 1 specific project like UI design or writing documentation where comparing screens is beneficial.

NarcisMirandes
That's a nice combination. But I do a lot of design. I need an Apple computer for that work. I am afraid that a non-Apple external display could cause more problems and confusion than benefits.