A new MacBook’s useful life varies with its specification, workload and Apple’s software support, rather than following a fixed replacement timetable. The article estimates that most models receive around eight years of first-party support, making this a key consideration given their cost and limited upgradeability.

It bases this estimate on roughly six years of major macOS updates followed by two years of security patches; macOS 27 is said to support Apple-silicon Macs dating back to 2020, while macOS Sonoma supports some 2018 models. Light-use machines may remain adequate throughout that period, but demanding video work can require earlier replacement, while processor performance, RAM, storage and battery wear are practical constraints. Modern MacBook batteries are rated for 1,000 charge cycles before replacement is recommended.