Since MacBooks cannot be upgraded after purchase, always configure them with enough RAM and storage to last 5+ years. Apple Silicon (M-series chips) run incredibly cool and fast, making the fanless MacBook Air the best choice for most people.
Updated Apr 6, 2026
Apple
Apple MacBook Air 2020 Laptop Apple M1 8GB Memory 256 GB SSD 13.3" macOS 11 Big Sur MGN63LL/A Space Gray (Grade A)
MGN63LL/A
$499
Average lifespan
MacBooks are built with premium materials and have long OS support windows. They often remain highly functional for many years, limited primarily by battery wear.
Error: Flashing Question Mark Folder
The MacBook cannot find a bootable operating system. This indicates corrupted macOS software or a hardware failure with the internal storage drive.
Error: Kernel Panic (Screen restarts with error)
The system encountered a fatal error and had to reboot. Usually caused by conflicting kernel extensions, bad RAM, or buggy peripheral drivers.
Track your macbooks with Covala Home
Get personalized maintenance reminders, warranty tracking, and instant troubleshooting — all in one place.
Get started freeMacBooks have a high upfront cost but retain their resale value exceptionally well compared to Windows laptops. Total cost of ownership often includes AppleCare+ and an eventual battery replacement.
Common Failure Modes
Because everything (RAM, SSD) is soldered to the motherboard, single component failures require replacing the entire logic board. Screen damage from debris closed in the lid and battery degradation are the most common physical issues.
Since MacBooks cannot be upgraded after purchase, always configure them with enough RAM and storage to last 5+ years. Apple Silicon (M-series chips) run incredibly cool and fast, making the fanless MacBook Air the best choice for most people.
MacBooks are built with premium materials and have long OS support windows. They often remain highly functional for many years, limited primarily by battery wear.
Top-rated macbooks brands include Apple and more. Covala Shopping tracks 395 macbooks from 1+ brands.
MacBooks have a high upfront cost but retain their resale value exceptionally well compared to Windows laptops. Total cost of ownership often includes AppleCare+ and an eventual battery replacement.
Links may earn Covala Shopping a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices last verified at time of page load. As an Amazon Associate, Covala Shopping earns from qualifying purchases.
