Is the 13-inch 2017 MacBook Pro with i7 Better for Video Editing and Design Work?
Choosing the right MacBook Pro for your needs can be quite a task, especially when you weigh factors like budget and performance capabilities. This article aims to help you decide whether the 13-inch 2017 MacBook Pro with an i7 processor, which lacks the Touch Bar, is better than the i5 version for usage with software like Premiere Pro and Photoshop. Let's break down the considerations step by step.
Current Experience with i5 MacBook Pro
I have been using a 13-inch 2017 MacBook Pro with an i5 processor for a while now, and I also employ Premiere Pro and Photoshop on a regular basis. These applications run fairly smoothly and efficiently on the i5 version, not consuming a lot of processing power. It has proven to be a reliable and efficient tool set for my needs.
Maxing Out Specifications
When it comes to buying a Mac, my motto is to max out the specifications as much as my budget will allow, given the understanding that there won't be any room for upgrades in the future, especially in terms of the CPU. This approach ensures that I have all the necessary power right from the start.
Specs and Performance Differences
In my previous experiences, the distinction between the highest specifications of an i5 and the lowest specifications of an i7 can sometimes be rather negligible. Therefore, when selecting between these models, it's crucial not to blindly trust the labels and designations of the CPU, as they are not always reflective of significant processing power differences.
Understanding i5 vs. i7 Designations
The designations "i5," "i7," and "i9" for Intel processors can sometimes be misleading. Companies often assign these labels based on a range of factors, including the manufacturing process, testing results, and performance benchmarks. This can lead to slight differences in performance that might not be significant for day-to-day use. However, if you are planning to perform more intensive tasks like video editing and graphic design, opting for the more powerful i7 might be worth the extra cost.
Risk of Subtle Performance Gaps
One should remember that the difference in processing power between the i7 and i5, especially if you are not working with the absolute highest- and lowest-tiered models, might be minimal. For many users, this subtle difference may not make a noticeable impact on the performance of their everyday tasks. However, for professionals who need maximum performance for both video editing (like using Premiere Pro) and graphic design (like using Photoshop), the i7 could offer a more consistent and faster experience.
Researching the Exact Specifications
If you are leaning towards the i7 version, it's important to ensure that you choose the highest specification possible. Conduct thorough research to verify that there is indeed a noticeable and documented difference in processing power between the i7 model chosen and the i5 model. Reading through technical reviews and benchmark tests can provide valuable insights into the performance gap between these models.
Conclusion
Given your usage of Premiere Pro and Photoshop, the 13-inch 2017 MacBook Pro with i7, despite lacking the Touch Bar, might be a worthwhile investment if you want to ensure the best possible performance for your daily tasks. However, weigh the extra cost against your specific needs and usage scenarios.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual requirements and budget constraints. If you are willing to spend more to ensure peak performance for complex tasks, the i7 is definitely the way to go. However, if your needs are less intensive, the i5 version could still serve you well.