[DigitalToday reporter Yoonseo Lee] In the 2026 used MacBook market, models equipped with Apple Silicon from M1 onward are presented as the safest choice.

On Sept. 15 local time, IT outlet Engadget reported that support for the latest macOS has emerged as a key standard that determines the value of older MacBooks.

The key is software support. Apple began switching to its own chips in 2020, and macOS 27 Golden Gate does not support Intel Macs at all. In contrast, the macOS 27 compatibility list includes Apple Silicon-based MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models from 2020 onward. For that reason, an assessment has emerged that when choosing a used MacBook, it is more important whether performance and software support can justify the cost than whether the price is cheap.

By current standards, the M1 MacBook Air is cited as the safest choice. It can handle basic uses such as web browsing, watching videos and document work, and can be found at relatively reasonable prices as used or refurbished products.

The situation is different for Intel-based MacBooks. Apple stopped selling Intel MacBooks after 2021, and going forward only security updates for the final supported version can be expected. That has prompted the observation that over time new apps are likely to require newer versions of macOS.

Still, if the plan is only simple tasks, an Intel MacBook can be used in the short term. Another analysis said that for users who can bypass restrictions of Intel MacBooks with the T2 security chip introduced between 2018 and 2020 and work with Linux, the device’s lifespan can be extended more than if they continue using macOS.

The report also presented criteria for purchase decisions. Buyers should first verify the exact model identifier for a used MacBook, then check the macOS compatibility list, battery charge cycle count and service recommendation status. For offline transactions, it is better to inspect the keyboard, display, ports, camera, Wi-Fi and speakers directly. It said that rather than choosing the cheapest model, selecting a model from one generation earlier generally provides higher value.

If high-performance work is needed, a used MacBook Pro with more memory and storage and a higher-end M-series chip could be an alternative. Demand is likely to split between Apple Silicon-based MacBook Air models for basic tasks and MacBook Pro models in good condition for high-end work.

On purchase channels, Apple-certified refurbished products or sellers that clearly present condition, return periods and warranty terms were cited as safer choices. Apple says its certified refurbished products come with a one-year basic warranty and are up to 15 percent cheaper than new products. Person-to-person transactions can be cheaper but carry correspondingly higher risks. If possible, it is better to check the device condition, serial number and actual configuration specifications.

Ultimately, by 2026 the baseline for used MacBooks is clear. Models with M1 chips or later are worth buying if the price fits, but Intel-based models are likely to fall down the priority list unless the use case is limited or the plan is short-term use.