Older Intel MacBooks can look like great value, but software support is now the deciding factor. Apple has confirmed that macOS Tahoe 26 is the last macOS version for Intel Macs; future versions will require Apple silicon (M-series chips).
The short answer
- Apple silicon (M1, M2, M3 and newer): runs macOS Tahoe 26 and is expected to keep receiving new macOS versions. The best long-term choice.
- Two Intel MacBooks run macOS Tahoe 26: MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) and MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, four Thunderbolt 3 ports). Tahoe is their final major macOS version.
- Other Intel MacBooks (including MacBook Air models up to 2020 and the two-port 13-inch MacBook Pro of 2020) are not compatible with macOS Tahoe and stay on an earlier macOS version.
Matching this to our listings
- MacBook Air 13-inch (2020) โ M1 and MacBook Air 13-inch (2022) โ M2: Apple silicon.
- MacBook Pro 16-inch (2019) โ Core i7 and MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020, Intel) โ Core i7 10th Gen (four-port model): Intel, macOS Tahoe 26 is their last major version.
- MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020, Intel) โ Core i5 8th Gen (two-port model) and older Intel MacBooks such as the 2017 MacBook Pro: not compatible with macOS Tahoe.
Which should you buy?
- Students and long-term owners: choose Apple silicon. The M1 MacBook Air is the most affordable route to current macOS.
- Tight budgets for simple tasks: an older Intel MacBook still works, but check the macOS version on the listing and make sure the apps you need support it.
- Windows software or Boot Camp: only Intel Macs support Boot Camp. If you need Windows, a Windows laptop is usually simpler.
Battery and condition
Every MacBook we sell is inspected and covered by our 12-month warranty. Our minimum battery health for MacBooks is 80%; see the Grading Guide. The warranty covers battery swelling and other safety-related battery faults, but not normal capacity reduction over time.
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Sources
- Apple Support: macOS Tahoe is compatible with these computers (support.apple.com/122867)
- Apple Support: How to upgrade to macOS Tahoe 26 (support.apple.com/122727)
- Apple WWDC 2025 Platforms State of the Union: macOS Tahoe is the last release for Intel Macs
Facts checked on 4 November 2026. This is an editorial guide; topics were chosen by editorial judgement, not search-volume data.