Laptop
MacBook Air M3, 2024 model
This is the Mac to get if you 1) need a Mac and 2) need that Mac to be portable. It now comes in two sizes, so there’s no need to go Pro if you just want a bigger screen. This is as much Mac as most people need. And now that Apple just raised the base-level RAM, all most people need to do is decide which screen size they want and to upgrade the storage from 256GB to 512GB. In fact, since Apple is still selling the M2 Air and also raised that model’s base-level RAM, you could save a lot of money and get the M2 Air with 512GB RAM and be perfectly happy for years and years.
Desktop
M4 iMac
The M4 iMac is excellent for most people who don’t want to move their computer around. Bump up the storage to at least 512GB.
iPhone
iPhone 16
There’s a good chance the iPhone 16 is far better than the iPhone you are using now. You can skip the Pro (I think I should have) because the main camera on the iPhone 16 is seriously good, it’s got two pro features (Action Button and Camera Control), and it’s far easier to repair than previous iPhones. I bet the base storage is enough, too.
iPad
iPad Air
The iPad Air is the iPad to get if it’s going to be your only iPad. Updated with the M2-series, it now comes in two sizes and is a great bang for the buck. I do recommend the 256GB storage tier, but if money is tight 128GB won’t make you sad. 64GB makes me sad on my own iPad mini.
Apple Watch
Series 10
The Apple Watch has no real competition. Buy the newest and keep it for three years.
AirPods
AirPods 4 with ANC
Most of the benefits of AirPods Pro without the uncomfortableness of something shoved deep into your earholes? Sign me up. Let’s see if I get them for Christmas (2024).
iCloud Storage
200 GB
Protect your photos by throwing a couple of bucks at Apple for the iCloud storage. The prices are competitive and, if take care to set it up correctly, your iPhone will back itself up each night. Then turn on iCloud Photo Library and have all your photos available to you even if you fill up your iPhone. Seriously, we’re talking about three bucks a month.
Certified Refurbished
If you don’t shy away from refurbished, getting one of these machines from Apple’s Certified Refurbished store is great. iPhones and iPads come with new outer shells and batteries and a regular one-year warranty. This is the way to go if money is tight (or you are smart with your money). The M2 Mac mini pops up on here occasionally and is a hell of a bargain.
What I’m Currently Using
M2 Mac Book Air, 24 GB RAM, 512 GB storage
Apple Studio Display
iPhone 16 Pro, 128 GB
Apple Watch Series 10
AirPods 3
Despite my recommendations of certified refurbished products, the above were all bought new.
Page updated: 2024, October 31
