Buy Smart. Avoid Headaches. Ask a Local Expert First.
Apple devices are powerful — but not upgradeable.
Storage, RAM, and chip choice matter before you buy.
1) Choose the Right Storage (You Can’t Upgrade Later)
Apple devices cannot add storage later. Pick it right upfront.
- Basic use: 64–128GB
- School: 128–256GB
- Art / Procreate: 256–512GB
- Photo/video editing: 512GB–1TB+
- Kids: durability + battery life
Running out of storage is the #1 reason people replace Apple devices early.
2) CPU / Chip Choice Matters
Stick to Apple Silicon:
- M1, M2, M3 chips (best performance, best battery life)
Avoid older Intel Macs unless budget is a concern — they:
- Run hotter
- Have poor battery life
- Lose OS support sooner
3) RAM Cannot Be Upgraded Later
Choose based on workload:
- Basic / school: 8GB
- Multitasking / business: 16GB
- Photo/video editing: 16–24GB
- Pro workflows: 24GB+
4) Pick the Right Screen Size
- 13″–14″ → portable, lightweight
- 15″–16″ → creators, multitasking, business users
5) Don’t Forget the Ports
If you plug in printers, cameras, monitors, or SD cards:
- Look for more USB-C ports
- HDMI on some models
- SD card readers on MacBook Pro
6) For iMacs & Mac Minis
Choose carefully — these also can’t be upgraded later.
- Prefer M-series only
- Ensure storage/RAM is enough
- Check monitor compatibility on Mac Mini
- Avoid old iMacs with spinning HDDs
If unsure, we match the model to your exact use.
7) Match the Windows Device to the User
For School
- iPads with keyboard + rugged case
- 64–128GB for basic tasks
- 128–256GB for older students
- MacBook Air for high school/college
For Work
- MacBook Air (office, light work)
- MacBook Pro (creative, editing, multitasking)
- M-series chips only
- 8–16GB RAM
- 256–512GB SSD
For Gaming
Apple is not ideal for gaming.
- Casual games = fine
- Real gaming → choose Windows instead
For Art & Creative
- iPad + Apple Pencil (Procreate)
- 256GB+ for artwork
- MacBook Pro for editing
- Color-accurate displays
- M2/M3 ideal for creators
For Seniors
- iPads
- Large, bright screens
- Simple interface
- Long battery life
- Local support (Little Dog!)
8) Avoid Cheap Knockoffs Using Buzzwords
Same warning as the Windows guide — watch out for:
- Fake “4K”
- Fake “AI”
- “Gaming” with no GPU
- “Military grade”
- Random brands
- Fake warranties
If it looks questionable, send it to us first.
9) Consider Refurbished
Refurbs give you:
- Better components for the price
- Business-grade quality
- Full cleaning & testing
- Fresh OS installs
- 1-year hardware warranty
- Real local support
- Up to 91% less environmental impact
Shop Local: shop.littledogtech.com
10) When in Doubt… Ask Us First
We’ll tell you if the device is:
- A good deal
- Too slow
- Underpowered
- Not worth the money
- If a better option exists
📞 Little Dog Tech / LDTech
Real People. Real Answers. Real Support.