2015 MacBook vs. 2016 MacBook: Real World Usage Test

As it was already mentioned on our website, back in April Apple released an updated 12-inch MacBook with improved processor, SSD, battery and a new Rose Gold color option. Nearly a month after the release, AppleInsider reporters have decided to test the 2015 and 2016 models side by side and find out whether the new laptop is worth upgrading to for 2015 MacBook owners. The results of the test were rather surprising.

Even though the updated device features a faster Skylake processor, storage and memory, a real-world user is very unlikely to spot a big difference in performance between the two computers. GeekBench 3 results also prove that calling a 2016 MacBook a big upgrade is a mistake. The only more or less considerable difference in performance is observed only during heavy video editing, however, I don’t think anyone will buy the 12-inch MacBook for such tasks.

Long story short, if you plan to buy the 12-inch MacBook for the first time, choosing a newer model is a smart step. However, if you already own a 2015 MacBook and think you need to upgrade, I recommend you to take a look at the MacBook Pro.