2014 MacBook Air: Small Speed Bump, Big Bang For Buck Jump

Yes, Apple rolled updated 2014 MacBook Air models yesterday and, geeks being geeks, there are already benchmarks that show a modest performance bump. However, when you reckon performance against price, the percentage change roughly doubles in the customer’s favor.

Geekbench scores began appearing yesterday and, as one would expect, the 2014 MacBook Air performance numbers increase modestly, roughly 3 and 4 percent for single and multiprocessors, respectively.

That it truly unimpressive given the 7 percent increase in processor speed. However, if one reckons the price/performance ratio (ie Geekbench scored divided by price), it’s obvious the Apple has increased the value proposition, or bang for the buck, quite nicely.

Or, in other words, buyers are getting roughly 15 percent more bang for the buck from the 2014 MacBook Air than last year’s models. None too shabby.

Wanna better deal still? Get a refurbished MacBook Air. For example, a 2013 MacBook Air at $849 delivers bang for buck scores of 2.89 (single) and 5.44 (multi).

Granted, newer models do offer a modest, very modest performance increase, but there is no question where the best value lies. And, I never get tired of beating this drum — refurbished Apple gear provides superior value.

The Fairer Platform buys, recommends and gives refurbished Macs, iPads, iPods and Apple accessories…

What’s your take?