Macbook Pro M1 LifestyleSource: Apple

Best Mac for Writers iMore 2021

Whether you're using Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, or another word processor to write your next term paper or best-selling novel, we've got you covered. The following are the best Macs for writers in 2021, starting with our favorite, the MacBook Air (M1, 2020), a portable, powerful solution. There are other noteworthy Macs we've gathered to help you choose the one that fits your needs best, including the best iMac of the year.

Best Overall: MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

Macbook Air M1Source: Daniel Bader / iMore

At 2.8 pounds, the overall best Mac for writers, the latest 13-inch MacBook Air, is the lightest MacBook on the market despite having the same screen size as the smallest MacBook Pro model. Along with being less weighty, the MacBook Air is also cheaper than the Pro model even though it contains the same internals — Apple's all-new M1 SoC. The laptop also includes a backlit Magic Keyboard and a Touch ID sensor.

The entry-level price for the MacBook Air is appealing. However, it comes with drawbacks, including fewer Thunderbolt 3 ports, less display brightness, and more inferior speakers than most MacBook Pro models. It also offers 2 hours less battery life between charges than the 13-inch MacBook Pro (M1, 2020).

None of the disadvantages should stop you from buying the MacBook Air if you're mainly using the computer for writing and similar purposes.

Pros:

  • Same screen size as 13-inch MBP
  • Up to 18 hours of wireless web between charges
  • Excellent Price

Cons:

  • Only two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
  • Less battery life than similar MacBook Pro with M1

Best Overall

Macbook Air Gold Select

MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

Save money and still get a Mac

Whether for work or school, this is a great MacBook for writers and almost everyone else too.

Best Alternative: 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020)

13 Inch Macbook Pro 2020 Rene Podcast HeroSource: Rene Ritchie

The 13-inch MacBook Pro is in a transition period thanks to the late 2020 arrival of Apple Silicon. As things stand, there are entry-level Apple M1 13-inch MacBook Pro models and those that still offer Intel-based processors. If you're a writer who isn't looking for an extraordinary amount of internal storage, we suggest going with our favorite, the MacBook Air. The price difference is substantial enough to warrant sticking with the less expensive laptop.

However, if you're looking for more storage or memory, go with an Intel-based 13-inch MacBook Pro. The model offers up to 4TB of storage and 32GB of memory. (The M1 model maxes out at 2TB of storage and 16GB of unified memory.) With an Intel-based model, you'll receive four Thunderbolt 3 ports and Touch Bar.

One reason to skip all 13-inch MacBook Pro models right now is that the Intel-based versions will probably get replaced later this year as Cupertino transitions the entire MBP lineup to Apple silicone.

Pros:

  • More options than the M1 versions
  • Great mobility
  • It's much cheaper than the 16-inch MBP model

Cons:

  • Could be replaced in 2021 by an M1-based model
  • Price can rise quickly as you add components

Best Alternative

MacBook Pro 2020

13-inch MacBook Pro (2020)

A step up

There's much to love about this model, which offers better internals than the MacBook Air.

Best Premium: 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019)

16-inch MacBook ProSource: Rene Ritchie / iMore

If you're looking for a MacBook with the largest possible display, this is the one to get. The 16-inch MacBook Pro features a Retina display with True Tone and at least 16GB 2400MHz DDR4 memory. Upgrades cost more, of course, and these could set you back thousands of dollars extra if you're not careful.

The 16-inch MacBook Pro is a terrific choice for writers looking for a larger display. However, if screen-size is much less important, you can save a lot by going with a 13-inch model. Another reason to wait: the 16-inch MacBook is due for an update in 2021.

Pros:

  • Largest MacBook Pro to date
  • Best Intel-based MBP you can buy

Cons:

  • Most expensive MacBook Pro on the market
  • New model is coming this year

Best Premium

16-inch MacBook Pro

16-inch MacBook Pro (2019)

When screen size matters

If you're okay with the price, no doubt this is the MacBook to get. Happy writing!

Best Desktop: iMac 5K (2020)

iMac 2020Source: Apple

Our favorite iMac of 2021 also makes our list of the best Macs for writers. Featuring a Retina 5K display, this workhorse computer will provide you with years of service.

The entry-level model is the one we recommend for writers. It features a 3.1GHz 6-Core Processor with Turbo Boost up to 4.5GHz, 256GB Storage, and much more. Be sure to increase the storage to at least 1TB.

If a desktop computer is in your future as a writer, this is the one you should get, case closed.

Pros:

  • Great price
  • Plenty of add-ons
  • Retina 5K display

Cons:

  • Obviously, not portable
  • Is the screen too big for what you want to do?

Best Desktop

iMac (2020)

iMac with 5K

Massive size

The entire family will love this Apple desktop computer. Even after all these years, the iMac design remains breath-taking and lights up any room.

Best Mac for Writers

Whether for school, business, or home use, a Mac is a great choice. For writers especially, you can't go wrong, no matter the model you select. Our favorite, the MacBook Air (M1, 2020), offers a terrific Retina display in a portable frame that won't break the bank.

Available in space gray, gold, and silver, the MacBook Air is the lightest Apple laptop on the market and also the one that offers the most battery life between charges. It's also the thinnest so you can bring it with you at any time.

Credits — The team that worked on this guide

Author:

Bryan M. Wolfe is a dad who loves technology, especially anything new from Apple. Penn State (go Nittany Lions) graduate here, also a huge fan of the New England Patriots. Thanks for reading. @bryanmwolfe

We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.