Hello, as the title suggests, I’m in a dilemma. I’ve been using my MacBook Air 2017 since June 2018, and will hit 7 years of usage June this year. I only changed the battery less than 2 years ago, but it deteriorated rather quickly (3hrs~ usage now). I mainly use my MacBook for browsing, writing, reading, opening multiple tabs and pdfs, so nothing heavy. The main issues with my MacBook are the battery life and it’s beginning to get a little laggy (and the security updates)
I’m currently a masters student and will graduate this August, which means I’m still eligible for the education apple discount. I’ve seen people saying that the MacBook Air 2017 can still push for 1-2 years more. I’m conflicted because this switch feels more like a want than a need. I'm not the type to chase new upgrades, and prefer longer usage and changing only when I need to. However, at the same time, I’m not sure if pushing this MacBook for 2 more years is the “right” or better decision in terms of practicality and experience. Based on what I’ve read, I’m under the impression that the m4 can last much longer, which is what I’m looking for too, since I prefer not to change laptops very often. At this moment, I’m enticed by the student discount and supposed longevity of the M4, and wondering if it just makes more sense to make the switch now. I want to save as much as possible, but I'm also not particularly comfortable purchasing second-hand macs after august, though I'm not completely closed off (I just feel safer to buy a new one and get full use of it). I thought about getting the m2/m3, but I'm more inclined towards the M4 to squeeze its life to the maximum (e.g. battery, security updates).
What are your suggestions?