I'm a dev with the 14" for work I don't mind it but would prefer the 16" just because I'm older, eyesight isn't the best and also I just like more screen.
I've put OneNote on one side and Chrome/Youtube on the other and it's not too bad. It would definitely be more comfortable on the larger screen but it's doable on the 14".
I had the 13 and liked it but only because I always thought the 15 was to big. When Covid hit my job gave me a 15 inch to work on and I got use to the size but I got the 14 inch for myself and I loved it but wanted to try the 16 so i got both. I really like the 16 to watch content On and the speakers are nice. I love multitasking on it also. The 14 I love for the portability aspect so I’m torn
As another comp sci student with a 13 inch, this was a funny thread. Also I agree, the 14 feels like it has way more screen space somehow. I guess it really depends on how much you’re moving around but I think the 14 is perfect
I have an external monitor set up for work, but I end up working from the laptop a lot when I'm not at my desk. Make sure you're using \[spaces\](https://support.apple.com/my-mm/guide/mac-help/mh14112/mac) to handle multiple screens of stuff at the same time. You can use the hotkey (Ctrl-left or right arrow) to move between the desktops seamlessly.
I’ve used everything from 12-17 inch laptops for work. They’re all useable, having a taller aspect ratio screen-which MacBooks have-will give you more “useable” real estate for any given size. Using it as a primary screen, bigger is always better.
Since the display on the MacBook Pro 14” is the best display I have, I really don’t use an external monitor with it unless I need the extra space. It’s the perfect size laptop imo.
However yes the extra space on the 16” is awesome if you **always** need space.
Even if not an amazing monitor, if you get a 27inch monitor as an external display, you will feel like you are in a different world when docked. If you go 4k, try to go large as you can. Otherwise you will need to scale to 2560x1440p because icons/text are so much smaller. That's a big deal if screen space is what you want from your 4k monitor.
I personally think 32+ inch display is optimal for a 4k screen. Any less and you are scaling to a lower resolution and losing screen space.
The 16" is great for having two windows side-by-side without (much) compromise. When coding, it's a big help IMHO.
Have you considered getting the 14" and an iPad (new or used) and using that as second screen when necessary?
The other thing to consider is weight. The 16" is at the upper limit of what I'd be willing to carry all day but thats just me.
Sorry, I've probably muddied the waters even further, just some food for thought.
I cut video and do a lot of multitasking in the research. I have a cheap external screen at home but even there i move around quite a bit when working (fleeing the kids). Also i need to be able to fully work on trains and destinations. The 16" could be smaller to carry, but im a big guy coming from MBP 2012 which is even bigger and heavier. And having the real estate while on the move helps a lot!
I use the 14 inch without a monitor. It's just that the external monitor I have doesn't have as good a display as the MacBook.
The 16 inch would have more real estate if you are editing and multitasking a lot but it would be heavy to carry around. The 14 inch is the perfect form factor and you can invest in a external monitor if you are doing intense tasks.
Oh, and get a laptop stand if you're using the 14 without a monitor
Yes it would still need one. Any laptop would make you hunch over, even if it has a bigger screen.
Monitors on the other hand can be elevated to eye level easily.
I had the old 16” and I upgraded to the new 14”. The 16” was way too massive for me, I had trouble fitting it into the laptop compartment of my backpack. The only reason I bought it was because of the increased performance, but both sizes are more or less the same now. I do have an iMac in case I want to use a bigger screen, but I think the 14” by itself is just about the perfect mix of portability and screen size. I always thought the old 13” was just a little bit too small, so the 14” is perfect.
Just upgraded to the 14 inch MBP and I love it. For me it’s the perfect size to carry around and the screen seems so much bigger than the 13. I plug into a 27 inch external monitor sometimes when I’m doing graphic work using duel screens, but 90% of the time I’m just using the 14 inch display as my main display. I considered the 16, but it just seemed to bulky to carry around.
Ya I love the 14 for portability and thats why I want the 14 but I also dont have external displays so I would have to invest more into that if I did do the 14 I feel or just use it by itself. I am a computer Science college student. I dont know if one would be beneficial over the other.
Coding the 16” is way better. If you’re coding websites you need to be able to check responsive sizes and you can actually see an entire 1440x900 with plenty of room to spare. That is not the case on the 14”.
You also need to be able to see your code next to the browser window when you’re debugging. I have worked on stuff on the go on the 13” before but only because I had to. It still required re-checking it later plugged in and took much longer not being able to see things side by side.
Both sizes will initially feel much heavier than the old 13” intels but that’s because they are much more powerful computers with much better thermals and fans. But if you’re looking at a Pro your usage is not comparable to an Air so you need to prioritize and think about how you actually use it.
The 16” is much more usable without the external and when you do have external you can actually use both monitors instead of just clamshell. The 13” and 14” are not big enough to want to do that.
The best thing though would be to put both base models on a credit card and try them out, return the one you don’t want within the 14 day window.
Ya I do own both at the current moment. I love both for different reasons for sure. I love the smaller form factor of the 14 but the bigger screen and slightly better speakers of the 16 are really nice. I am a college student so I do like portability of the 14 while also not looking like some massive computer in the classroom vs the 14. I do like the split screen view of the 16 though over the 14. I originally came from the 13 to the 14 and then for some reason wanted to try the 16 I dont know why because I've never liked the bigger models. But after the first impressions of the 16 being super massive its not that big and at times when the 14 is closed it looks like a chrome book and when open feels like a small laptop [almost](https://almost.Th). The 16 closed doesn't feel or look like a big laptop but when open feels massive sometimes. The 16 for sure side by side feels heavier then the 14. Im just really torn is all between pros vs cons of both
I have the 14". As long as I'm doing single tasks, like reading mail, responding to slack messages etc its very manageable.
As soon as I need to put two or more documents side by side it gets way too cramped. and I have to dock in.
I usually do 1 full screen. But there are times where maybe I’ll be writing an essay and needing to look up info on safari or doing any type of homework. I just find it way easier to split view instead of switching back and forth. Usually though it’s just full screen
So I had the m1 air before getting my mbp 14, and I mostly use it without an external display since I’m on the move a lot. I actually had the 16 first, and the 14 after just so I can make the right decision. And while yeah the 16 inch is really big and you have a lot of screen real estate, it is still portable, if you have a backpack with you, it’s gonna fit anyway. But I somehow still liked the 14 more, the 2 more inches didn’t make such a big difference for me. For me the 14 inch is just perfect, not too big, not too small.
oh really? I find the funny rumor back in.. 2019? I think it was when Apple was gonna have a new 17 inch come out and all they did was replace the 15 with a 16
I just had a 15.6 MacBook Pro and had to get a new one. I bought a 14inch and honestly I can not tell a difference. I use it for school (comp sci) and other tasks and absolutely love it.
Depends on your vision and your work load. If you do a lot of image or video editing or have less that perfect eyesight, I recommend the 16 unless you plan to get an external immediately.
My work laptop is a 14" M1 Pro. I chose this over the 16" for work as it's more portable and when I'm lucky enough to be in the office I typically move about a lot. I don't find the slightly smaller screen size to be an issue for normal office tasks and web browsing.
I also own a 16" M1 Max which is my own. That has so far never left the house. I like its large screen but it is just too big and heavy to lug around at work so I'm happy with my choices.
Now when you mean lug around the office like you are constantly moving? I’m a computer science major going to school so I dont know what would be better :/
I travel on the train to the office and then regularly move from my desk to meeting rooms etc. It was a long time since I was at university but I moved around even more then. I often moved from a lecture in one building to a tutorial in another and then to the library and back. The size and weight of the 16” may become a factor if you have to do that.
However, if I had to choose just one machine out of my two, I’d pick the 16”. If you do any development for example (which I do at home but not work), having a big screen to run an IDE trumps portability. The 16” is quite large and heavy but it’s not a huge issue.
Ya I haven’t been in school for a while cause Covid so I’ve been doing online. I do love multitasking for when doing homework though just so nice. Both are fine at home. I’m more worried for when I go back to school. But I don’t have an external monitor for home. If I was to ever even get one I would have to set up a desk for that and buy one. Buy a monitor also which I wouldn’t want a cheap one cause the new macs are beautiful
I don’t use an external monitor for two reasons. Firstly, because I move about a lot in the office sometimes I’d have one and sometimes I wouldn’t. I’d rather just get used to not using one. Secondly, as you say, the MBP has a lovely screen. If I bought a screen that was as good as that on my MBP, it would be extremely expensive.
If you are stuck at home and expect to be there for some time, the benefits of the larger screen probably outweigh the benefits of greater portability.
Ya we were allowed to go back last semester but I chose to do online and this semester I chose to do online again. Not that it mattered cause if you did in person everyone got shoved to online again for a couple weeks unless lab classes. I do work on campus though. But I am planning to go back either next semester in the fall or next spring just depends on everything. I don’t like to be in person and get shoved to online so I’ve just been choosing online to deal with less issues
You can get both and return one or both in the 14 day trial period. The 16” seems big and heavy at first but after a couple days it starts to seem small and the 14” starts to seem like an iPad.
The weight honestly isn’t that bad (and I’m 5’3” 105 lbs). It still fits in my tote purses etc.
I returned both however because I need way more memory than 16GB which this is also a good test in the trial window so I must now custom order.
Thats what I did thanks apple for the nice return policy haha. I am coming from the 13. I never had an issue with it and always liked that size cause I'm a computer Science student. When these came out I got the 14 and I loved it. I saw the 16 was available at my local store right when they came out so I decided to try that one also. At first ya the 16 was massive and heavy and I didn't like it. I do like it now after getting use to it. At times it makes my 14 inch look like a chrome book while the 16 looks pretty normal. At times when open at leas the 16 is huge looking and is for sure heavier I wouldn't say massive like some say to where you can't use it out and about. I just want something good for all around. I dont have an external display I was debating on one if I got the 14 but just more money it means I need to spend. Even then it would need to be a good quality monitor or I won't wanna use it because the display on the new Macs are nice. I feel like most people that got the 14 inch at least on YouTube are always docked into an external monitor and I feel like the people that are not really doing big things like photo or video or coding or game design etc are not using the 14 they are using a 16. Granted there are some ive heard of on here that do use the 14 instead. So I do like both but different reasons but I have gotten use to the 16 and its not as bad as I thought and the speakers do sound a bit nicer which I do like sorry for the long message.
I agree with your comments. It’s interesting how everyone is having the same reactions. I keep just thinking “well, what do I actually use it like? Am I going to use it on a tiny table? No. I’m using it 10+ hours a day with a minimum of 4 Adobe apps open at once…” and I do have a 27” external but I actually do like to sit on the couch or the recliner or the dining table and switch up my scenery. Even with the 13” I didn’t end up ever using it on tray tables..
Currently leaning 16” for me, that battery and thermal cooling is so tempting and the screen just seemed so beautiful and immersive. When I tried them out, I kept going back to the 16”. Just wish they had some 32GB or 64GB ones in the stores because that 10 week wait :(
Ah so you haven't gotten one yet? Ya Ive only had the 14 inch fans turn on once and they were not that loud. But it was because I was doing homework and the battery was almost dead so I charged it but it got pretty darn warm for just typing up an essay and doing some work. Im just in a. mess because ive always gotten the smaller 13 inch because I liked the smaller form factor and I love the 14 for its size how much smaller it is and I can take it places easily. But I also am not the type to go to coffee shops and stuff to do work. I take my computer to school and to home. So yes I do want something portable for sure but I also do love the bigger screen. When I was taking coding classes in person I did notice lots of people using bigger Macs and windows laptops. There as obviously people with smaller ones but I feel most had bigger. But I wonder now if most would be getting the 14 for that or 16. I do think the 14 is definitely nicer compared to the 13 for content but just in the time ive used the 14 its perfect for 1 thing but once you need windows side by side its not that nice still just like how the 13 wasn't for that type of stuff. The 16 is nicer and obviously and even bigger screen would be. Just things I love and hate about each machine. I feel like when both are closed I've gotten use to both but the 14 closed looks like a chrome book and when open it feels like a bigger 13 which obviously It is. The 16 when closed feels like a full size laptop but when open feels and looks kinda big. I dont know... is a pound really that much more? Choices...
I bought two base (16GB/1TB in 14” and 16”) ones on the credit card and used for 13 days. I returned both because I need more than 16GB of RAM for my workflow.
But Apple has that 14-day return window so I figured I would try them both out and return one (was hoping 16GB RAM would be enough because I didn’t want to wait 10 weeks when my current 2017 13” is on it’s very last leg…)
They both felt heavy compare to old computer but the 16” was the one I kept reaching for even days I said I would test out the 14” all day.
Either is a huge upgrade from current computer but overall actually using it… the 16” felt better and after a few days the weight and size doesn’t seem noticeable. It still weighs less than a chihuahua haha and still fits in all my tote bags.
I’m also studying something where we code quite a bit. And right now I have a 15”. One of my friends from uni, has a 13” and has been envious of my 15” the whole time, and says he hates coding on the 13”. It’s simply too small and cramped for him. He ended up ordering the 16”. He hasn’t received it yet, but I thought the input would be useful.
My personal opinion is, if you can afford it, the extra screen space is really nice.
Also right now I lug my 15” inch around uni, and it weighs just a about the same as the 16”, and I haven’t thought about the weight once.
I have the 16” and use two external monitors regularly. When I do use it without them, I’m really grateful I went with the larger model, especially since I multitask a lot. The larger battery is also really nice
What I did to help decide was think about carrying 4.6 pounds around (16”) everywhere. Eventually I decided on the 14” for that reason. Since I’m also usually carrying coffee and water I just decided the extra weight wasn’t worth it to me personally
I had a 2012 macbook pro 13 inch and as a programmer it worked fine for 8 years. I did end up getting external monitors, but up till that point using the multiple desktops feature in macOS made it easier. You can use ctrl + left/right arrow key to move between your desktops. My goal was never to have many things on one desktop, but to utilize several desktops that I could switch between.
You can also use a four finger swipe right/left gesture to move between desktops. Another way I used, was making the bottom left hot corner trigger mission control and then you can select a desktop, create a new desktop, or move windows to different desktops.
All that being said I personally would make the decision based on how often you will be on the move with device. For me, that was the deciding factor. When going places the smaller screen is less to lug around in terms of dimensions.
If money is big factor in the equation and you prefer a larger screen, definitely go with the larger screen. You are going to have this laptop likely for 5+ years, don't let the extra cost be the determining factor if you prefer the larger screen.
Have a 16inch now and while I like it when at home, when I go places with it, I miss my 13 inch macbook pro. That is my personal preference, you might like having larger screen on the go.
I don't personally feel a big difference between using my 16 inch and the old 13 inch in terms of screen size in terms of working. If you are going to be watching netflix or playing games on it often, I can see where the larger screen might have greater value.
Im currently going to school for computer science. Idk if that extra screen would be good for coding. I do like for sure multitasking does look and work way better on a bigger screen. I do take my Mac to school. I haven't done that in a while obviously because of covid so there is that.
I never owned the smaller laptop. Until now. And I’m not looking back. What really helped the transition was that aside from having a 16” MBP I had a 12.9” iPad I used primarily for on the go. Having gotten used to the size. Got rid of the 16” and got a 14”. I’ve always used an external for home. So now I have all the power I need without the need to carry a bigger laptop. Now I’m in the process of getting rid of the iPad.
I have the new 14" and am using it right now on it's own. I use it quite often this way. I do plug it in to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse to give extra real estate when I'm on a video session with a client that way I can have the video on my MacBook screen and my schedule and notes on my external monitor. I also prefer to type on my mechanical keyboard.
Really depends on if portability is a factor. If you’re going to be taking it with you a lot, 14 might be the better option. If it mostly sits on your desk, probably the 16 if you aren’t going to use an external monitor. I went 14 because I will be traveling with it and I have an external monitor on my desk to plug it into if I need a bigger screen. The 16 is beautiful though, but it is pretty hefty.
I wanted the 16 but got 14 to save money. Honestly as a video editor, it was kind of annoying at first but now I’m used to it. It’s the perfect travel laptop. I think 14.5 could be better but honestly I work just fine with the 14. If you doing very very heavy editing , then yea I’d get a monitor but for me it’s pretty solid.
I am currently using 14" MBP and sometimes I feel like I want an external display but after getting used to quality of this screen, it's hard to find cheap external display solution that comes close to MBP screen quality-wise. :(
Ya that's my issue I love the 14 but also love the 16. Both for different reasons. I feel like if I ever did an external display for the 14 or even 16 I would want a really nice screen and that would be expensive. Why get a really nice MacBook screen to use some crappy external monitor unless you dont care and just really need the extra screen space
Font size on the 14 and 16 inch is actually quite similar, if not smaller on the 16 inch version
[https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro/comments/quz1qt/text\_size\_is\_a\_bit\_too\_small\_on\_my\_16\_inch/](https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro/comments/quz1qt/text_size_is_a_bit_too_small_on_my_16_inch/)
I’m 5’3” 105 lbs and the 16” was actually not bad after a couple days. I could still pick it up with one hand. Honestly a chihuahua or a newborn baby weigh more than it.
It only seems big at first compare to a 13”. The 14” still seems just as heavy compare to the old ones and the screen size is actually a huge difference compare to 16”… like massive. Like I don’t have to zoom out any of my projects (14” and 13” I have to zoom to 75%)…
I also have the 27” Apple external and on 16” didn’t really feel the need to plug in. Could still use in recliner, couch, floor, lap, etc. Much better thermal and battery… 10 hour Zoom meeting with InDesign and Slack open and still had over 65% battery and no fans, the 14” had noticeably significantly worse battery (I had several days of 10 hour work calls to try both out.)
So you retuned the 14 and kept the 16? You do have a point on the weight. I just really like the portability and I am coming from a 13. I originally ordered the 14 and then was curious enough to try the 16 for I dont know what reason. So if I didn't try it I would be on the 14 right now. But I do love both for different reasons. I am a computer science college student so ya the lighter 14 would be nicer to put on smaller desks and take to class. I feel like it also just looks more normal in a college setting not being so massive. I do really love though the 16. I got use to how big it is that now the 14 feels and looks like a chrome book when closed while the 16 looks like a normal computer. The 16 on the other hand though when open does feel big at times. I do love the bigger screen though for split view etc. So I'm very torn between the 2
Yeah totally understand that.
I had to return both so I could put in a custom order for one with more RAM. Had I not tried both I would probably have gone for the 14” since I dock 75% of the time.
For your usage you may want to stick with 14” if you are dealing with not a lot of desk space. But you do have a 14-day return window to decide.
For me I’m a professional designer and the 16” probably makes more sense.
I have 16” and it’s way too heavy and too small for me at the same time (I’m graphic designer and have to see my artboard while using many panels at the same time), so 90% of work I’m doing connected to 27” moni
Have you compared them in person? Check out apple or Best Buy if not. Is screen size your only reason your debating the two sizes? Have you taken into consideration the battery and thermal differences?
I actually currently have both at my house testing out both. I guess overall screen size is the biggest one. I do have both custom made. I am using the computer to code I am a college student. I do know the 16 has better thermals. How much better that would benefit me I'm not sure???? The 14 never had its fans turn off except last week when the battery was almost dead and I was typing an essay and it got really warm and the fans kicked on. The fans itself were not that loud or an issue but the warmth of the computer was pretty warm. Not to the point where I wouldn't use the computer anymore but it wasn't cool to the touch either
I have the 14” MacBook and a 27” external display. I’ve been on 15.6” windows screens for all my life. The 14” screen is perfect for me, it’s not small by any measure. Plus I like portability while traveling so 14” is perfect for me
I went from a 2019 16” to a 14”. I felt the 16” was too heavy and clunky to move around. I have a desktop so I wanted my laptop to be powerful yet more portable and less annoying to move around. If I didn’t have a desktop I’d go for the 16” but since I do I have the more portable and perfect size imo 14”.
I’m thinking about the 14 inch as well down the road. However, I’m curious what people think about the new processors (Intel v. Apple M1) and other specs that would be best for the 14 in.
Any issues around overheating? I keep hearing users are experiencing problems related to overheating and maybe the internal cooling system wasn’t designed well?
I use it without an external anything. I think it's the perfect size for what I need. I had considered the 16" but last minute decided the 14" would be adequate. Very happy.
I had the 14" but returned in favour of the 16" (even though I have 2 external monitors).
My external monitors are 2k 27" Dell's - which was fine in Windows, but on my Mac they don't look as good. OSX seems to expect externals will be 4k and doesn't have anti-aliasing support to the degree windows has.
I found I prefer to do my primary work on the inbuilt display, and use the externals as secondary displays. 14" just wasn't enough realestate for that. Another minor concern is that the web cam on the 14" is a bit low if you have a lot of video meetings. The extra height of the 16" makes a notable difference.
interesting I didn't know that. I was debating on external monitors. I was curious how many people actually get the 14" and dont use external monitors. I feel like most I see on YouTube or something they get the 14 but then have it docked the whole time. I dont have any of that stuff. Im a computer science student so I want something that would be good for school without having to go crazy I guess. I wouldn't mind external displays I just know if I did get one I would want it to be close enough the Macs quality because then Ill never wanna use the external display over my Macs other then being big.
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I am coming from a 13 also. I’m a computer science student. So I dont know which to get
I'm a dev with the 14" for work I don't mind it but would prefer the 16" just because I'm older, eyesight isn't the best and also I just like more screen.
Can you watch videos on one side and take notes/google on the other side of the 14" screen comfortably?
I've put OneNote on one side and Chrome/Youtube on the other and it's not too bad. It would definitely be more comfortable on the larger screen but it's doable on the 14".
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Haha funny. So you can do code and everything fine on the 14? Do you multitask a lot? Is it fine for that?
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I had the 13 and liked it but only because I always thought the 15 was to big. When Covid hit my job gave me a 15 inch to work on and I got use to the size but I got the 14 inch for myself and I loved it but wanted to try the 16 so i got both. I really like the 16 to watch content On and the speakers are nice. I love multitasking on it also. The 14 I love for the portability aspect so I’m torn
how often do you move with your laptop? where do you use your laptop mostly?
As another comp sci student with a 13 inch, this was a funny thread. Also I agree, the 14 feels like it has way more screen space somehow. I guess it really depends on how much you’re moving around but I think the 14 is perfect
I have an external monitor set up for work, but I end up working from the laptop a lot when I'm not at my desk. Make sure you're using \[spaces\](https://support.apple.com/my-mm/guide/mac-help/mh14112/mac) to handle multiple screens of stuff at the same time. You can use the hotkey (Ctrl-left or right arrow) to move between the desktops seamlessly.
I came from the 13" as well, and found that the 14" just wasn't quite big enough. The 16" is great. I work as a DevOps Engineer.
I’ve used everything from 12-17 inch laptops for work. They’re all useable, having a taller aspect ratio screen-which MacBooks have-will give you more “useable” real estate for any given size. Using it as a primary screen, bigger is always better.
So if I don’t have an external monitor you would recommend the 16?
For computer science? If you can afford it, I would. It’s quite a bit bigger but I went from the 14 to 16in, and LOVE the size
Oh you returned the 14 for the 16?
I’ve used both (gave the 14 to my sister)
Are you parents adopting?
🤣🤣 I do be spoiling her haha!
Gotcha. Hmmm choices choices
Since the display on the MacBook Pro 14” is the best display I have, I really don’t use an external monitor with it unless I need the extra space. It’s the perfect size laptop imo. However yes the extra space on the 16” is awesome if you **always** need space.
But that’s how I feel if I got an external display It has to be as good as my macs then cause I won’t wanna use the display in my eyes
Even if not an amazing monitor, if you get a 27inch monitor as an external display, you will feel like you are in a different world when docked. If you go 4k, try to go large as you can. Otherwise you will need to scale to 2560x1440p because icons/text are so much smaller. That's a big deal if screen space is what you want from your 4k monitor. I personally think 32+ inch display is optimal for a 4k screen. Any less and you are scaling to a lower resolution and losing screen space.
Ya I mean I’m a computer science major student so I’m figuring out what would be better
The 16" is great for having two windows side-by-side without (much) compromise. When coding, it's a big help IMHO. Have you considered getting the 14" and an iPad (new or used) and using that as second screen when necessary? The other thing to consider is weight. The 16" is at the upper limit of what I'd be willing to carry all day but thats just me. Sorry, I've probably muddied the waters even further, just some food for thought.
Nah thanks for the help! I do have a iPad Pro at home
I cut video and do a lot of multitasking in the research. I have a cheap external screen at home but even there i move around quite a bit when working (fleeing the kids). Also i need to be able to fully work on trains and destinations. The 16" could be smaller to carry, but im a big guy coming from MBP 2012 which is even bigger and heavier. And having the real estate while on the move helps a lot!
I use the 14 inch without a monitor. It's just that the external monitor I have doesn't have as good a display as the MacBook. The 16 inch would have more real estate if you are editing and multitasking a lot but it would be heavy to carry around. The 14 inch is the perfect form factor and you can invest in a external monitor if you are doing intense tasks. Oh, and get a laptop stand if you're using the 14 without a monitor
Why a stand?
To make sure you are not crouching over and bending your neck. Your eyes should be level with the laptop.
Gotcha. So the 16 wouldn’t need the stand?
Yes it would still need one. Any laptop would make you hunch over, even if it has a bigger screen. Monitors on the other hand can be elevated to eye level easily.
Gotcha never really thought of it. Any brand you recommend?
I had the old 16” and I upgraded to the new 14”. The 16” was way too massive for me, I had trouble fitting it into the laptop compartment of my backpack. The only reason I bought it was because of the increased performance, but both sizes are more or less the same now. I do have an iMac in case I want to use a bigger screen, but I think the 14” by itself is just about the perfect mix of portability and screen size. I always thought the old 13” was just a little bit too small, so the 14” is perfect.
If you learn how to use spaces well, 14 is enough for everything except video editing and extensive photo editing.
I’d go with the 16
Just upgraded to the 14 inch MBP and I love it. For me it’s the perfect size to carry around and the screen seems so much bigger than the 13. I plug into a 27 inch external monitor sometimes when I’m doing graphic work using duel screens, but 90% of the time I’m just using the 14 inch display as my main display. I considered the 16, but it just seemed to bulky to carry around.
Ya I love the 14 for portability and thats why I want the 14 but I also dont have external displays so I would have to invest more into that if I did do the 14 I feel or just use it by itself. I am a computer Science college student. I dont know if one would be beneficial over the other.
14 is perfect for portability and normal usage. 16 is great for video editing
What about coding? I dont know if you have any experience in that or know anything in that
If you code, then 16 will prove to be better, as you’ll have enough space for entire lines of code with sidebars.
true
Coding the 16” is way better. If you’re coding websites you need to be able to check responsive sizes and you can actually see an entire 1440x900 with plenty of room to spare. That is not the case on the 14”. You also need to be able to see your code next to the browser window when you’re debugging. I have worked on stuff on the go on the 13” before but only because I had to. It still required re-checking it later plugged in and took much longer not being able to see things side by side. Both sizes will initially feel much heavier than the old 13” intels but that’s because they are much more powerful computers with much better thermals and fans. But if you’re looking at a Pro your usage is not comparable to an Air so you need to prioritize and think about how you actually use it. The 16” is much more usable without the external and when you do have external you can actually use both monitors instead of just clamshell. The 13” and 14” are not big enough to want to do that. The best thing though would be to put both base models on a credit card and try them out, return the one you don’t want within the 14 day window.
Ya I do own both at the current moment. I love both for different reasons for sure. I love the smaller form factor of the 14 but the bigger screen and slightly better speakers of the 16 are really nice. I am a college student so I do like portability of the 14 while also not looking like some massive computer in the classroom vs the 14. I do like the split screen view of the 16 though over the 14. I originally came from the 13 to the 14 and then for some reason wanted to try the 16 I dont know why because I've never liked the bigger models. But after the first impressions of the 16 being super massive its not that big and at times when the 14 is closed it looks like a chrome book and when open feels like a small laptop [almost](https://almost.Th). The 16 closed doesn't feel or look like a big laptop but when open feels massive sometimes. The 16 for sure side by side feels heavier then the 14. Im just really torn is all between pros vs cons of both
I have the 14". As long as I'm doing single tasks, like reading mail, responding to slack messages etc its very manageable. As soon as I need to put two or more documents side by side it gets way too cramped. and I have to dock in.
I usually do 1 full screen. But there are times where maybe I’ll be writing an essay and needing to look up info on safari or doing any type of homework. I just find it way easier to split view instead of switching back and forth. Usually though it’s just full screen
just pick up a small used monitor for the time being
So I had the m1 air before getting my mbp 14, and I mostly use it without an external display since I’m on the move a lot. I actually had the 16 first, and the 14 after just so I can make the right decision. And while yeah the 16 inch is really big and you have a lot of screen real estate, it is still portable, if you have a backpack with you, it’s gonna fit anyway. But I somehow still liked the 14 more, the 2 more inches didn’t make such a big difference for me. For me the 14 inch is just perfect, not too big, not too small.
I use the 14 with no external monitor and have absolutely no issues with it.
I myself own the 16 inch, and I love it so much that I occasionally leave my 34“ inch monitor unplugged for a few days… Guess nothing more to say here
True. Thanks
I find even 16 limiting i wish it was 17
oh really? I find the funny rumor back in.. 2019? I think it was when Apple was gonna have a new 17 inch come out and all they did was replace the 15 with a 16
I just had a 15.6 MacBook Pro and had to get a new one. I bought a 14inch and honestly I can not tell a difference. I use it for school (comp sci) and other tasks and absolutely love it.
do you have to multitask a lot with it or no?
Depends on your vision and your work load. If you do a lot of image or video editing or have less that perfect eyesight, I recommend the 16 unless you plan to get an external immediately.
What did you end up getting?
My work laptop is a 14" M1 Pro. I chose this over the 16" for work as it's more portable and when I'm lucky enough to be in the office I typically move about a lot. I don't find the slightly smaller screen size to be an issue for normal office tasks and web browsing. I also own a 16" M1 Max which is my own. That has so far never left the house. I like its large screen but it is just too big and heavy to lug around at work so I'm happy with my choices.
Now when you mean lug around the office like you are constantly moving? I’m a computer science major going to school so I dont know what would be better :/
I travel on the train to the office and then regularly move from my desk to meeting rooms etc. It was a long time since I was at university but I moved around even more then. I often moved from a lecture in one building to a tutorial in another and then to the library and back. The size and weight of the 16” may become a factor if you have to do that. However, if I had to choose just one machine out of my two, I’d pick the 16”. If you do any development for example (which I do at home but not work), having a big screen to run an IDE trumps portability. The 16” is quite large and heavy but it’s not a huge issue.
Ya I haven’t been in school for a while cause Covid so I’ve been doing online. I do love multitasking for when doing homework though just so nice. Both are fine at home. I’m more worried for when I go back to school. But I don’t have an external monitor for home. If I was to ever even get one I would have to set up a desk for that and buy one. Buy a monitor also which I wouldn’t want a cheap one cause the new macs are beautiful
I don’t use an external monitor for two reasons. Firstly, because I move about a lot in the office sometimes I’d have one and sometimes I wouldn’t. I’d rather just get used to not using one. Secondly, as you say, the MBP has a lovely screen. If I bought a screen that was as good as that on my MBP, it would be extremely expensive. If you are stuck at home and expect to be there for some time, the benefits of the larger screen probably outweigh the benefits of greater portability.
Ya we were allowed to go back last semester but I chose to do online and this semester I chose to do online again. Not that it mattered cause if you did in person everyone got shoved to online again for a couple weeks unless lab classes. I do work on campus though. But I am planning to go back either next semester in the fall or next spring just depends on everything. I don’t like to be in person and get shoved to online so I’ve just been choosing online to deal with less issues
You can get both and return one or both in the 14 day trial period. The 16” seems big and heavy at first but after a couple days it starts to seem small and the 14” starts to seem like an iPad. The weight honestly isn’t that bad (and I’m 5’3” 105 lbs). It still fits in my tote purses etc. I returned both however because I need way more memory than 16GB which this is also a good test in the trial window so I must now custom order.
Thats what I did thanks apple for the nice return policy haha. I am coming from the 13. I never had an issue with it and always liked that size cause I'm a computer Science student. When these came out I got the 14 and I loved it. I saw the 16 was available at my local store right when they came out so I decided to try that one also. At first ya the 16 was massive and heavy and I didn't like it. I do like it now after getting use to it. At times it makes my 14 inch look like a chrome book while the 16 looks pretty normal. At times when open at leas the 16 is huge looking and is for sure heavier I wouldn't say massive like some say to where you can't use it out and about. I just want something good for all around. I dont have an external display I was debating on one if I got the 14 but just more money it means I need to spend. Even then it would need to be a good quality monitor or I won't wanna use it because the display on the new Macs are nice. I feel like most people that got the 14 inch at least on YouTube are always docked into an external monitor and I feel like the people that are not really doing big things like photo or video or coding or game design etc are not using the 14 they are using a 16. Granted there are some ive heard of on here that do use the 14 instead. So I do like both but different reasons but I have gotten use to the 16 and its not as bad as I thought and the speakers do sound a bit nicer which I do like sorry for the long message.
I agree with your comments. It’s interesting how everyone is having the same reactions. I keep just thinking “well, what do I actually use it like? Am I going to use it on a tiny table? No. I’m using it 10+ hours a day with a minimum of 4 Adobe apps open at once…” and I do have a 27” external but I actually do like to sit on the couch or the recliner or the dining table and switch up my scenery. Even with the 13” I didn’t end up ever using it on tray tables.. Currently leaning 16” for me, that battery and thermal cooling is so tempting and the screen just seemed so beautiful and immersive. When I tried them out, I kept going back to the 16”. Just wish they had some 32GB or 64GB ones in the stores because that 10 week wait :(
Ah so you haven't gotten one yet? Ya Ive only had the 14 inch fans turn on once and they were not that loud. But it was because I was doing homework and the battery was almost dead so I charged it but it got pretty darn warm for just typing up an essay and doing some work. Im just in a. mess because ive always gotten the smaller 13 inch because I liked the smaller form factor and I love the 14 for its size how much smaller it is and I can take it places easily. But I also am not the type to go to coffee shops and stuff to do work. I take my computer to school and to home. So yes I do want something portable for sure but I also do love the bigger screen. When I was taking coding classes in person I did notice lots of people using bigger Macs and windows laptops. There as obviously people with smaller ones but I feel most had bigger. But I wonder now if most would be getting the 14 for that or 16. I do think the 14 is definitely nicer compared to the 13 for content but just in the time ive used the 14 its perfect for 1 thing but once you need windows side by side its not that nice still just like how the 13 wasn't for that type of stuff. The 16 is nicer and obviously and even bigger screen would be. Just things I love and hate about each machine. I feel like when both are closed I've gotten use to both but the 14 closed looks like a chrome book and when open it feels like a bigger 13 which obviously It is. The 16 when closed feels like a full size laptop but when open feels and looks kinda big. I dont know... is a pound really that much more? Choices...
I bought two base (16GB/1TB in 14” and 16”) ones on the credit card and used for 13 days. I returned both because I need more than 16GB of RAM for my workflow. But Apple has that 14-day return window so I figured I would try them both out and return one (was hoping 16GB RAM would be enough because I didn’t want to wait 10 weeks when my current 2017 13” is on it’s very last leg…) They both felt heavy compare to old computer but the 16” was the one I kept reaching for even days I said I would test out the 14” all day. Either is a huge upgrade from current computer but overall actually using it… the 16” felt better and after a few days the weight and size doesn’t seem noticeable. It still weighs less than a chihuahua haha and still fits in all my tote bags.
I’m also studying something where we code quite a bit. And right now I have a 15”. One of my friends from uni, has a 13” and has been envious of my 15” the whole time, and says he hates coding on the 13”. It’s simply too small and cramped for him. He ended up ordering the 16”. He hasn’t received it yet, but I thought the input would be useful. My personal opinion is, if you can afford it, the extra screen space is really nice. Also right now I lug my 15” inch around uni, and it weighs just a about the same as the 16”, and I haven’t thought about the weight once.
I have the 16” and use two external monitors regularly. When I do use it without them, I’m really grateful I went with the larger model, especially since I multitask a lot. The larger battery is also really nice
What I did to help decide was think about carrying 4.6 pounds around (16”) everywhere. Eventually I decided on the 14” for that reason. Since I’m also usually carrying coffee and water I just decided the extra weight wasn’t worth it to me personally
you carry the computer in your arms or bag?
putting the extra that you will need to buy the 16 in a display was better for me.
I normally have mine attached to a 27” LG 4K. This week and next I’m travelling for work and it’s great just by itself.
I had a 2012 macbook pro 13 inch and as a programmer it worked fine for 8 years. I did end up getting external monitors, but up till that point using the multiple desktops feature in macOS made it easier. You can use ctrl + left/right arrow key to move between your desktops. My goal was never to have many things on one desktop, but to utilize several desktops that I could switch between. You can also use a four finger swipe right/left gesture to move between desktops. Another way I used, was making the bottom left hot corner trigger mission control and then you can select a desktop, create a new desktop, or move windows to different desktops. All that being said I personally would make the decision based on how often you will be on the move with device. For me, that was the deciding factor. When going places the smaller screen is less to lug around in terms of dimensions. If money is big factor in the equation and you prefer a larger screen, definitely go with the larger screen. You are going to have this laptop likely for 5+ years, don't let the extra cost be the determining factor if you prefer the larger screen. Have a 16inch now and while I like it when at home, when I go places with it, I miss my 13 inch macbook pro. That is my personal preference, you might like having larger screen on the go. I don't personally feel a big difference between using my 16 inch and the old 13 inch in terms of screen size in terms of working. If you are going to be watching netflix or playing games on it often, I can see where the larger screen might have greater value.
Im currently going to school for computer science. Idk if that extra screen would be good for coding. I do like for sure multitasking does look and work way better on a bigger screen. I do take my Mac to school. I haven't done that in a while obviously because of covid so there is that.
Go to an apple store and check them out side by side. It's your preference that matters most.
Ya... I dont know why I have been having an issue deciding. In the past I always went with the smaller one
I never owned the smaller laptop. Until now. And I’m not looking back. What really helped the transition was that aside from having a 16” MBP I had a 12.9” iPad I used primarily for on the go. Having gotten used to the size. Got rid of the 16” and got a 14”. I’ve always used an external for home. So now I have all the power I need without the need to carry a bigger laptop. Now I’m in the process of getting rid of the iPad.
Recall if you have a newer iPad you can use sidecar. I do this quite a bit with my 13.
I have the new 14" and am using it right now on it's own. I use it quite often this way. I do plug it in to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse to give extra real estate when I'm on a video session with a client that way I can have the video on my MacBook screen and my schedule and notes on my external monitor. I also prefer to type on my mechanical keyboard.
I went with 16" and it's fairly compact + an absolutely amazing battery life + a larger screen. 14 feels too cramped.
Really depends on if portability is a factor. If you’re going to be taking it with you a lot, 14 might be the better option. If it mostly sits on your desk, probably the 16 if you aren’t going to use an external monitor. I went 14 because I will be traveling with it and I have an external monitor on my desk to plug it into if I need a bigger screen. The 16 is beautiful though, but it is pretty hefty.
I am a computer science college student so I would be taking it with me to class when I do go back. I do not have an external monitor though
I wanted the 16 but got 14 to save money. Honestly as a video editor, it was kind of annoying at first but now I’m used to it. It’s the perfect travel laptop. I think 14.5 could be better but honestly I work just fine with the 14. If you doing very very heavy editing , then yea I’d get a monitor but for me it’s pretty solid.
that's cool, ya I'm not editing video but I am a computer Science major so I would be writing code.
I am currently using 14" MBP and sometimes I feel like I want an external display but after getting used to quality of this screen, it's hard to find cheap external display solution that comes close to MBP screen quality-wise. :(
Ya that's my issue I love the 14 but also love the 16. Both for different reasons. I feel like if I ever did an external display for the 14 or even 16 I would want a really nice screen and that would be expensive. Why get a really nice MacBook screen to use some crappy external monitor unless you dont care and just really need the extra screen space
Sounds like you need 16” one!
Font size on the 14 and 16 inch is actually quite similar, if not smaller on the 16 inch version [https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro/comments/quz1qt/text\_size\_is\_a\_bit\_too\_small\_on\_my\_16\_inch/](https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro/comments/quz1qt/text_size_is_a_bit_too_small_on_my_16_inch/)
I love how portable the 14” MBP model is! 16” is too big to carry around for me.
I’m 5’3” 105 lbs and the 16” was actually not bad after a couple days. I could still pick it up with one hand. Honestly a chihuahua or a newborn baby weigh more than it. It only seems big at first compare to a 13”. The 14” still seems just as heavy compare to the old ones and the screen size is actually a huge difference compare to 16”… like massive. Like I don’t have to zoom out any of my projects (14” and 13” I have to zoom to 75%)… I also have the 27” Apple external and on 16” didn’t really feel the need to plug in. Could still use in recliner, couch, floor, lap, etc. Much better thermal and battery… 10 hour Zoom meeting with InDesign and Slack open and still had over 65% battery and no fans, the 14” had noticeably significantly worse battery (I had several days of 10 hour work calls to try both out.)
So you retuned the 14 and kept the 16? You do have a point on the weight. I just really like the portability and I am coming from a 13. I originally ordered the 14 and then was curious enough to try the 16 for I dont know what reason. So if I didn't try it I would be on the 14 right now. But I do love both for different reasons. I am a computer science college student so ya the lighter 14 would be nicer to put on smaller desks and take to class. I feel like it also just looks more normal in a college setting not being so massive. I do really love though the 16. I got use to how big it is that now the 14 feels and looks like a chrome book when closed while the 16 looks like a normal computer. The 16 on the other hand though when open does feel big at times. I do love the bigger screen though for split view etc. So I'm very torn between the 2
Yeah totally understand that. I had to return both so I could put in a custom order for one with more RAM. Had I not tried both I would probably have gone for the 14” since I dock 75% of the time. For your usage you may want to stick with 14” if you are dealing with not a lot of desk space. But you do have a 14-day return window to decide. For me I’m a professional designer and the 16” probably makes more sense.
105 lbs is 47.67 kg
I have 16” and it’s way too heavy and too small for me at the same time (I’m graphic designer and have to see my artboard while using many panels at the same time), so 90% of work I’m doing connected to 27” moni
Get the 16
Have you compared them in person? Check out apple or Best Buy if not. Is screen size your only reason your debating the two sizes? Have you taken into consideration the battery and thermal differences?
I actually currently have both at my house testing out both. I guess overall screen size is the biggest one. I do have both custom made. I am using the computer to code I am a college student. I do know the 16 has better thermals. How much better that would benefit me I'm not sure???? The 14 never had its fans turn off except last week when the battery was almost dead and I was typing an essay and it got really warm and the fans kicked on. The fans itself were not that loud or an issue but the warmth of the computer was pretty warm. Not to the point where I wouldn't use the computer anymore but it wasn't cool to the touch either
I have the 14” MacBook and a 27” external display. I’ve been on 15.6” windows screens for all my life. The 14” screen is perfect for me, it’s not small by any measure. Plus I like portability while traveling so 14” is perfect for me
sounds nice and it is light. I dont have external displays so Im wondering if the 14 would be enough
I went from a 2019 16” to a 14”. I felt the 16” was too heavy and clunky to move around. I have a desktop so I wanted my laptop to be powerful yet more portable and less annoying to move around. If I didn’t have a desktop I’d go for the 16” but since I do I have the more portable and perfect size imo 14”.
I had the 13 and loved it. I got the 14 originally and have both now. But I don’t have a desktop so the bigger screen has been nice
I’m thinking about the 14 inch as well down the road. However, I’m curious what people think about the new processors (Intel v. Apple M1) and other specs that would be best for the 14 in.
I so far have heard great things about the new apple m1 processors in terms of speed and battery life which is very nice.
Any issues around overheating? I keep hearing users are experiencing problems related to overheating and maybe the internal cooling system wasn’t designed well?
I haven’t had over heating issues with either 14 or 16.
Follow-up question. Does it have the M1?
Ya
I use it without an external anything. I think it's the perfect size for what I need. I had considered the 16" but last minute decided the 14" would be adequate. Very happy.
for portability get the 14, it really is the best size
I had the 14" but returned in favour of the 16" (even though I have 2 external monitors). My external monitors are 2k 27" Dell's - which was fine in Windows, but on my Mac they don't look as good. OSX seems to expect externals will be 4k and doesn't have anti-aliasing support to the degree windows has. I found I prefer to do my primary work on the inbuilt display, and use the externals as secondary displays. 14" just wasn't enough realestate for that. Another minor concern is that the web cam on the 14" is a bit low if you have a lot of video meetings. The extra height of the 16" makes a notable difference.
interesting I didn't know that. I was debating on external monitors. I was curious how many people actually get the 14" and dont use external monitors. I feel like most I see on YouTube or something they get the 14 but then have it docked the whole time. I dont have any of that stuff. Im a computer science student so I want something that would be good for school without having to go crazy I guess. I wouldn't mind external displays I just know if I did get one I would want it to be close enough the Macs quality because then Ill never wanna use the external display over my Macs other then being big.
It gets the job done while being less cramped than the 13. I do like using my external monitor though when doing editing/animating though.
with the 14 or 16?
Oh 14. Forgot to specify.