As students, having the right tools to succeed is essential. When it comes to laptops, there are numerous options available in the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Apple’s MacBook Air 2017 is one such option that has been a popular choice among students for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and impressive performance. But, is it the ideal choice for students? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of the MacBook Air 2017 to help you decide if it’s the perfect fit for your academic needs.
Design and Portability
The MacBook Air 2017 is renowned for its sleek and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for students who are always on-the-go. Weighing just 2.96 pounds and measuring 0.68 inches in thickness, this laptop is easy to carry around, fitting seamlessly into backpacks and bags. The aluminum unibody construction is both durable and stylish, giving the MacBook Air a premium feel.
Moreover, the laptop’s compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for students who attend classes, study sessions, and group projects, allowing them to work efficiently without feeling weighed down. The MacBook Air’s portability is further enhanced by its impressive battery life, which can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, depending on usage.
A Display That Impresses
The MacBook Air 2017 features a stunning 13.3-inch LED-backlit display with a resolution of 1440 x 900 pixels. The screen is bright, vibrant, and delivers crisp visuals, making it perfect for watching educational videos, browsing online resources, and working on projects. The display’s high contrast ratio and wide viewing angles ensure that students can collaborate with ease, sharing their work with peers and instructors without any issues.
Performance and Capabilities
The MacBook Air 2017 is powered by a 1.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, which provides more than enough processing power for most student tasks. The laptop comes with 8GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 16GB, and a 128GB SSD storage, which can be expanded up to 1.5TB. This configuration ensures that students can multitask with ease, running multiple applications simultaneously without any lag or slowdown.
The MacBook Air 2017 is also equipped with Intel Iris Graphics 6000, which provides a decent graphics performance, suitable for tasks such as video editing, graphic design, and gaming. While it may not be the most powerful laptop in terms of graphics, it’s more than sufficient for most student needs.
Operating System and Software
The MacBook Air 2017 runs on macOS High Sierra, which offers a user-friendly interface and a range of innovative features. Students can take advantage of the operating system’s built-in apps, such as Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Additionally, the laptop comes with a range of free software, including iMovie, GarageBand, and Photos, which can be used for creative projects.
Connectivity and Security
The MacBook Air 2017 features two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, which can be used for charging, data transfer, and display output. Students can also connect their laptop to external devices using the headphone jack and an SD card slot. While the laptop may not have as many ports as other options, the Thunderbolt 3 ports offer versatility and convenience.
In terms of security, the MacBook Air 2017 is equipped with the latest security features, including Touch ID, which allows students to log in and make purchases with a simple fingerprint scan. The laptop also features Gatekeeper, which helps protect against malware and other online threats.
Additional Features
The MacBook Air 2017 includes a range of additional features that make it an attractive option for students. These include:
- FaceTime HD Camera: A high-resolution camera that allows students to participate in video conferencing and online classes with ease.
- Backlit Keyboard: A keyboard that features adjustable backlighting, making it easy to work in low-light environments.
Pros and Cons
As with any laptop, the MacBook Air 2017 has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the key points to consider:
Pros
- Portability: The MacBook Air 2017 is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for students who are always on-the-go.
- Performance: The laptop’s processor, RAM, and storage provide more than enough power for most student tasks, including multitasking and running multiple applications simultaneously.
- Design: The MacBook Air 2017 features a stunning design that is both durable and stylish, giving it a premium feel.
- Operating System: macOS High Sierra offers a user-friendly interface and a range of innovative features that make it easy to use and navigate.
Cons
- Cost: The MacBook Air 2017 is a premium laptop, and its price tag may be out of reach for some students.
- Limited Ports: The laptop’s limited port selection may be a drawback for some students, particularly those who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
- Upgrade Options: While the MacBook Air 2017 can be upgraded, the process can be complex and costly, which may be a concern for some students.
Is the MacBook Air 2017 Good for Students?
The MacBook Air 2017 is an excellent choice for students who value portability, performance, and style. While it may not be the most affordable option, its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks. With its impressive battery life, stunning display, and user-friendly operating system, the MacBook Air 2017 is an ideal choice for students who need a reliable laptop that can keep up with their academic demands.
Ultimately, whether the MacBook Air 2017 is good for students depends on their individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a laptop that offers a perfect balance of portability, performance, and style, the MacBook Air 2017 is definitely worth considering.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | 1.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB SSD |
| Display | 13.3-inch LED-backlit display, 1440 x 900 pixels |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours |
| Operating System | macOS High Sierra |
| Ports | Two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports, headphone jack, SD card slot |
In conclusion, the MacBook Air 2017 is an excellent choice for students who need a reliable, powerful, and portable laptop that can keep up with their academic demands. While it may have some drawbacks, its benefits far outweigh its limitations, making it an ideal choice for students who value performance, style, and convenience.
Is the MacBook Air 2017 still a good choice for students in 2023?
The MacBook Air 2017 is still a viable option for students in 2023, especially considering its affordability and performance. Although it may not be the latest model, it still packs a punch with its 8th-generation Intel Core i5 processor and up to 16GB of RAM. Additionally, the MacBook Air 2017 has been tested to run well with macOS High Sierra and later, which means students can still enjoy the latest features and security updates.
Moreover, the MacBook Air 2017’s battery life is still impressive, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent choice for students who need a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedules. With its compact design and lightweight build, the MacBook Air 2017 is also easy to carry around campus, making it a great option for students who are always on-the-go.
How does the MacBook Air 2017 compare to newer MacBook models?
When comparing the MacBook Air 2017 to newer MacBook models, one of the main differences is the processor. Newer models like the MacBook Air 2020 and 2022 come with more advanced processors, such as the 10th-generation Intel Core i5 and M1 chip, respectively. These newer processors provide faster performance and better graphics capabilities. Additionally, newer MacBook models often come with more modern features like Touch ID, Face ID, and improved displays.
However, the MacBook Air 2017 still holds its own as a reliable and affordable option. It may not have all the latest bells and whistles, but it’s still a solid choice for students who need a laptop for general use, such as browsing the web, working on documents, and streaming media. Plus, the lower price point of the MacBook Air 2017 makes it an attractive option for students on a budget.
What are the storage options available for the MacBook Air 2017?
The MacBook Air 2017 comes with several storage options, ranging from 128GB to 1.5TB. The base model starts at 128GB, which is suitable for students who primarily work with cloud-based storage or don’t need to store large files locally. However, students who need more storage space can opt for higher-capacity models, such as the 256GB or 512GB options.
It’s worth noting that the MacBook Air 2017’s storage is soldered to the motherboard, which means it cannot be upgraded after purchase. Therefore, it’s essential for students to choose the right storage option upfront based on their needs and budget.
Can I upgrade the RAM on the MacBook Air 2017?
Unfortunately, the RAM on the MacBook Air 2017 is also soldered to the motherboard, which means it cannot be upgraded after purchase. This is a common design decision for many modern MacBooks, as it allows for a thinner and lighter design. However, this means that students should choose the right RAM configuration upfront based on their needs.
For general use, the base model’s 8GB of RAM is often sufficient. However, students who need more memory for resource-intensive tasks like video editing or programming may want to consider the 16GB RAM option. It’s essential to assess your needs and budget before making a purchase.
How is the display on the MacBook Air 2017?
The MacBook Air 2017 features a 13.3-inch LED-backlit Retina display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The display is vibrant and provides excellent color accuracy, making it suitable for everyday tasks like browsing the web and watching videos. However, it’s not as bright as some newer MacBook models, which may be a concern for students who work outdoors or in well-lit environments.
While the display may not be the most impressive aspect of the MacBook Air 2017, it’s still a solid choice for students who need a laptop for general use. Additionally, the display’s lower resolution helps to conserve battery life, which is a significant advantage for students who need a laptop that can last throughout the day.
Is the MacBook Air 2017 compatible with the latest software and apps?
The MacBook Air 2017 is compatible with the latest software and apps, including macOS High Sierra and later. This means students can enjoy the latest features, security updates, and app compatibility. Additionally, the MacBook Air 2017’s Intel processor ensures that it can run a wide range of apps, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and more.
However, it’s essential to note that the MacBook Air 2017 may not be compatible with certain apps or software that require more advanced hardware or newer operating systems. Students should always check the system requirements for their preferred apps and software before making a purchase.
What are the pros and cons of buying a used or refurbished MacBook Air 2017?
Buying a used or refurbished MacBook Air 2017 can be a cost-effective way to get a reliable laptop for students. The main advantage is the lower price point, which can be significantly cheaper than buying a brand-new MacBook. Additionally, many refurbished MacBooks come with warranties or guarantees, which provide peace of mind for students.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. Used or refurbished MacBooks may have existing wear and tear, and their batteries may not last as long as a brand-new laptop. Additionally, students may not have access to the latest features or software updates. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and choose a reputable seller or refurbisher to ensure a high-quality used or refurbished MacBook Air 2017.