Is a $6,000 2019 Apple MacBook Pro Worth It for the Average User?

As technology enthusiasts, we often find ourselves questioning the value of premium tech products. When you have six thousand dollars available, and the desire to purchase a laptop with maximum performance, such as the 2019 Apple MacBook Pro with 8 TB internal SSD storage, 64 GB RAM, and a maxed-out processor, the question arises: is it worth it?

Building a Superior Laptop

The $6,000 MacBook Pro is more than most people are willing to spend on a laptop, and it might be more than the typical user needs. However, for those who prioritize quality, performance, and long-term value, this investment can be justified. The MacBook Pro is a robust and durable machine that is built to last many years, offering peace of mind in terms of privacy and security.

Professional-grade Performance for Creatives

Highly creative professionals and media houses can benefit significantly from a top-tier MacBook Pro. This machine is designed for professionals who require high CPU and graphical performance for tasks such as AR, VR, photography, and film editing. A single powerful machine like the Mac Pro can open up a world of possibilities in terms of productivity and creativity.

Comparing the Mac Pro and iMac Pro

While the 2019 Apple Mac Pro is impressive, it is not the only high-performance option from Apple. The iMac Pro, with its US$4,999 base price and 1 TB SSD, provides a more budget-friendly alternative. Although it may not reach the peak performance of the Mac Pro when fully configured, the iMac Pro offers excellent value for those who do not need every bit of the Mac Pro's power. This machine includes an integrated screen, making it a complete workstation for media professionals and power users.

My Experience and Recommendations

Considering my own experience, I use a Mac mini for software development, and while its specs are good, I am still in search of a better machine. A Mac Pro in a slightly higher configuration could offer significant upgrades for my needs, providing a decent upgrade path for the future. For those who are not movie editors or professional photographers, the iMac Pro is an excellent alternative, offering the same degree of upgradability at a lower cost.

Conclusion

The decision to buy a $6,000 MacBook Pro ultimately comes down to the intended use and budget. For highly creative professionals, the Mac Pro is a worthwhile investment, but for the average user who does not require such intense performance, the iMac Pro may be a more cost-effective and still high-performing option.