Apple has stated that macOS 26 Tahoe will be the last version of macOS to support Intel processors. On the back of that, I’m seeing lots of ads for Intel-powered Macs at reduced prices. While there may be good reasons to buy an Intel Mac, such as support for a legacy application or device, if you want to stay up to date with the latest software, An Intel-powered Mac may not be a wise choice at any price.
Already, we’re seeing support for Intel machines fall back. The offical compatibility list for Tahoe is:
- MacBook Air: 2020 or newer — only Apple Silicon models
- MacBook Pro 16-inch (Intel): 2019 or newer
- MacBook Pro 13-inch (Intel): 2020 (four Thunderbolt 3 ports) or newer
- MacBook Pro (Apple Silicon): all models
- Mac Mini: 2020 or newer
- iMac: 2020 or newer
- Mac Pro: 2019 or newer
- Mac Studio: all models
There are very few Intel-based Macs that can take the latest software.
Products are considered vintage when Apple has stopped distributing them for sale more than five and less than seven years ago. Once Apple stops distributing products for sale more than seven years ago they move to obsolete status. Once a product hits obsolete status, seven years after being taken out of the market, Apple stops officially offering service or parts.
That means many of the low-cost Macs being sold may not even get security updates.
If you’re looking for a low-cost Mac, then I suggest looking at refurbished M1 models. Or, head over to BigW where you can pick up an M1-powered MacBook Air for $999. It may not be a bleeding edge M4, like the latest MacBook Air, but it will give you decent service for a few years before Apple moves it to obsolete status.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.