This is my guide to the entire Apple range. It’s written for everyone and it follows the layout of the Apple website, so you can just skim through if you need to. I’ve created this guide to help people see what’s really out there and what’s likely to suit them. There are often older devices, and updates can be just around the corner.

I keep it updated, so it now includes the Vision Pro and advice about the new Apple Intelligence features they announced at their ‘WWDC’ event in June.

Mac

On the whole, the Mac range is in great shape. New MacBook Airs have just arrived, joining the exciting M3 machines they announced in October. Older M2 devices remain in the range though, and feel a little out of place.

MacBook Air

MacBook Air M2 - This has just replaced the M1 MacBook as the budget option. It’s the older model, that’s almost identical to the new one aside from the processor. I’d think hard about this though. Just £100 extra gets you the faster M3 chip and this device is almost two years into its lifespan running the latest software.

Last updated: June 2022

MacBook Air 13” M3 - The MacBook most people will need. This replaces the M2 model and in addition to the updated processor, you can run two external monitors (with the lid closed) if you need to. Just don’t overlook how powerful these devices are and think long and hard about why you would actually need a MacBook Pro.

Last updated: March 2024

MacBook Air 15” M3 - This larger, 15” model was first released last August with an M2 chip. It’s just had the same upgrade as the 13” model though. This is another great device, but you pay more for the bigger screen and extra speakers. You just have to work out which one suits you.

Last updated: March 2024

MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro 14” M3 - This is essentially a new addition to the range, with a ‘standard’ M3 chip. Previously, these machines have had Pro chips, with a scaled-down 13” device appearing elsewhere in the range to fill this space. That’s changed now, as we have a very capable MacBook Pro for a reasonable price. Just make sure a cheaper MacBook Air won’t deliver everything you need.

Last updated: October 2023

MacBook Pro 14” M3 Pro and M3 Max - This is the MacBook Pro we’ve seen over the last few years. The M3 Pro chip is going to deliver and will surely suit most professionals. You can also select a M3 Max model if that isn’t enough. Just make sure you really need all that power at this price. Again, you’ll need to work out what spec suits you.

Last updated: October 2023

MacBook Pro 16” M3 Pro and M3 Max - This isn’t just a bigger device. It packs a lot more punch. This is the machine for people who need serious, portable computing. I’ll let you work out if that’s you. For everyone else, just look at those specs and dream.

Last updated: October 2023

iMac

After a long wait, we got a new iMac at the end of last year. It skipped the M2 chip and features the brand new M3. Just be aware that this is a standard M3 chip though, as these aren’t pro machines. Hopefully, the choice of colours gave that away as well. That said, iMacs are great devices that should suit most users. If you don’t need to be mobile, this is probably your Mac right now.

Last updated: October 2023

Mac mini

This amazing device was updated at the start of 2023. For some reason, it’s been left behind as the rest of the consumer range has received M3 updates. You can upgrade this to a Pro chip though, which could make a difference. Although this was an easy choice before, you should really look at the new M3 iMac before making a decision. It’s hard to say when an M3 version of this device will arrive, or if they’ll choose to wait and skip it.

Last updated: January 2023

Mac Studio

This amazing machine received an update last year. It’s a compact, ‘Mac mini like’ device that packs a serious punch for professionals. The latest model features an M2 Max chip, with the option to upgrade to an M2 Ultra for impressive power. This of course comes at a price. Do you really need it and is it also worth waiting for an M3 or M4 update?

Last updated: June 2023

Mac Pro

A new Apple Silicone model was announced last year. It really is the stuff of dreams, but don’t get too excited. The Mac Pro is clearly intended to be used in offices and studios. It’s very expensive. While the Mac Studio should be enough for most professionals, the expansion options and sheer power will make a difference to the right people. You’ll know if that’s you.

Last updated: June 2023

Conclusions

There are some easy choices at the moment. For most people, the new MacBook Air or the M3 iMac will deliver everything they need for some time. The Mac mini is looking a little out of place though.

At the other end of the range, the MacBook Pros are likely to be updated before the end of the year. More significantly, the new processors could be developed specifically for AI. I think it’s worth waiting if you can. That said, I wouldn’t hold off considering anything in this range due to the arrival of the Vision Pro. I’m sure it will take a long time for it to be affordable or essential.

iPad

The waiting is over. The range has just been updated with some very impressive devices. The good news is, the new iPad Pro and iPad Air models are everything you’d expect from Apple. The bad news is, they didn’t touch the lower end of the range, so you have to be careful.

iPad Pro

This is an incredible new device, with tandem OLED displays, a streamlined new design and an M4 chip. That’s right, the Mac range is still on the M3. Incredibly, it remained around the same price (after the rumours suggested we brace ourselves for a sharp rise) and it can paired with an equally impressive new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. You need to be careful though, as this is pretty much the price of a MacBook Air, that runs Mac OS.

Last updated: May 2024

iPad Air

This has just been refreshed with a new design and it now features an M2 chip, that should still provide more than enough power. There are now two sizes, with a new 13” model available, and I like to think of it as a ‘budget’ iPad Pro. That said, it should deliver everything the average person needs from a tablet. You can also use the new Apple Pencil Pro with it, but you’re confined to the older Magic Keyboard. This really isn’t up there with the new keyboard for the Pro model, despite being the same price.

Last updated: May 2024

iPad

iPad 10th Generation - This older device has just had a price cut. I wouldn’t get too excited though, as I think it should have always been this price. When it was released, they left the old one in the range and put this in between the Mini and Air. Right now, it’s an old device and it only supports the original Apple Pencil. It’s still a decent tablet for everyday use though, although a new one could appear by the end of the year.

Last updated: October 2022

iPad mini

This is still the old device. They didn’t update it. It’s been around a while and I don’t understand why anyone would consider a device that’s almost three years old, when the new Air is only £100 more. This really looks out of place and surely has to be updated soon.

Last updated: September 2021

Conclusions

While this is obviously the right time to get one of the new devices, I’d think very carefully before investing in a mini, or the standard iPad. It’s such a shame these weren’t updated with the rest of the range, as it had been almost 18 months since anything changed. While the iPad Air makes sense, I’d think very carefully about what you actually need an iPad Pro for.

iPhone

This is still the phone most people want to own. In recent years, Apple have created clear categories that are aimed at specific users. It’s just down to you to work out where you fall into this. At the moment, we’re about 9 months into everything being current. It will soon be September.

iPhone 15 Pro

This looks good. As usual, the Pro got all the new innovations. The new A17 processor in particular means business, and they are even promoting it as a serious gaming device now. The action button should help and like the iPhone 15, the new USB C connector is clearly the way forward (thanks to EU legislation). This is an ideal upgrade if you want to invest in a Pro model. I don’t think it makes sense if you already have one at this price though.

Last updated: September 2023

iPhone 15

I like this phone. While there’s nothing revolutionary about it, there are clear steps forward. I think it’s better than last year’s model and the new price makes a difference. They have just announced that this model (or anything below the iPhone 15 Pro) won’t be capable of running the new Apple Intelligence features though.

Last updated: September 2023

iPhone 14

As usual, the previous year’s iPhone is still on sale. To be honest, I’ve never liked this phone. When it was released last year, I thought it was too expensive and evolutionary. Even though the price has dropped, I definitely think it’s worth that little bit more for the iPhone 15.

Last updated: September 2022

iPhone 13

The mini is no longer available, so it’s just this two-year-old standard model. I would factor in that it’s a lot closer to not running the latest software and that they have improved the battery life of the others since it was released. It’s a solid phone though.

Last updated: September 2021

iPhone SE

Let’s be clear, this isn’t a ‘normal’ iPhone as it’s aimed at people who just want a ‘simple’ smartphone. It’s smaller, and based on a very old design. Although these tend to go a few years between models, there are rumours that a larger, updated version could be on the way. We could see something within a year.

Last updated: March 2022

Conclusions

I think it’s an easy choice at the moment. As they have announced that only the iPhone 15 Pro will be able to run the new Apple Intelligence features they’ve just announced, it’s the only one I would consider before September. If you’re not desperate though, I think it’s definitely worth waiting to see what arrives in just a few months time. The SE is still separate, but it surely has to do something to keep up soon.

Watch

The Apple Watch range has come a long way since the first model. Better battery life, Always-On displays and more importantly, huge speed boosts have really made a difference. They have also moved into the health and fitness space, keeping you updated with important information about yourself. Like the iPhones, the current lineup is under 3 months away from being replaced by new models.

Apple Watch Series 9

This looks good. There has been a significant performance boost and I think it’s a lot closer to the flagship Ultra model. The new Double Tap feature, where you can initiate key actions by tapping your fingers, looks very interesting. It’s a nice price and I think it’s a great introduction to the Apple Watch. It’s also a worthy upgrade.

Last updated: September 2023

Apple Watch Ultra 2

The ‘just above Pro’ Apple Watch model was released last year. This rugged, reliable and expensive watch is clearly aimed at the people who need it, like hikers, divers and adventurers. Although it was an evolutionary update this year, I think the screen brightness alone makes it something special. It’s unlikely to be worth upgrading if you brought one last year though. The Series 9 is also a lot closer to it now, and a lot cheaper.

Last updated: September 2023

Apple Watch SE

The ‘budget’ Apple Watch was released in 2022, but it’s still impressive. Just be aware that it lacks some of the more advanced health features and it’s not ‘Always-On’, so the display only illuminates when you raise your wrist. It’s now cheaper though and has carbon neutral case and strap combinations. Like its predecessor, it’s likely to be on a two-year update cycle.

Last updated: September 2022

Conclusions

I really like the new Apple Watch Series 9. I think this is the one most people should consider. It’s a worthy upgrade that’s sure to surprise. For me, the Ultra is now pretty niche and the SE is there for people who just want something simple. I think it makes sense that they’ve removed older models from the range. Like the iPhones though, it’s probably worth waiting to see what arrives in September.

Vision

This is a new category, for a single new product. Apple has entered the world of spacial computing. Their new Vision Pro headset has just arrived in the UK, following a US launch earlier this year.

Vision Pro

An expensive glimpse of the future. While this is an incredible, revolutionary device, I haven’t heard anyone say they use it for anything essential. It’s very early days. This device is sure to get a lot better, and surely cheaper in future. I’m sure if most people are really honest with themselves, they’ll realise they don’t need it now.

Last updated: June 2024

AirPods

AirPods now have their own section on the Apple website, rather than being bundled in with other music devices. I think this is significant, and it shows us how important they are to them. Let’s be honest, these are the wireless headphones you see people wearing and most people want them. There are more choices than ever now though, so you have to think about what you really want from them and how much you’re prepared to pay.

AirPods 2nd Generation

My advice is to not overlook these, despite how long they’ve been around. They are cheaper than ever and are perfect if you’re using them on-the-go, where they could easily get lost. The new, 3rd generation, AirPods are more advanced and more robust though, and noise-cancelling comes in higher in the range with the Pro. They should be updated soon though.

Last updated: March 2019

AirPods 3rd Generation

There have been some big improvements, but they have been around for a while. Although Apple updated the charging case late last year, they are surely due an update soon. If you need some now though, you get spacial audio, sweat and water resistance and improved sensors. You don’t get noise cancelling though, so you need to look at the Pro model if you need that.

Last updated: October 2021

AirPods Pro 2nd Generation

They have got a lot better. The latest model arrived late last year and they are worth your attention. You get a better battery life and these ones have been built for Spatial Audio. Why would you want them over the standard AirPods though? It’s simple, the noice-cancelling features make a difference. The case has just been updated to include a USB C connector, like the new iPhones.

Last updated: September 2022

AirPods Max

This is a tough one. It’s very hard to recommend consumer headphones at this price. They clearly aren’t for everyone and you really need to be an Apple Music subscriber to get the best out of them, in terms of features and sound quality. Personally, I’d look at cheaper alternatives from Bose if you want quality, over-ear headphones. There are also a lot of rumours about a new model, or at least an upgrade to USB-C.

Last updated: December 2020

Conclusions

I think AirPods are the perfect choice if you use Apple devices. They are automatically picked up and it’s so easy to switch between them now. Honestly, they just keep getting better all the time. As you may have guessed, I’m a big fan of AirPods Pro. I think they’re worth it. The range hasn’t received an update for over a year though, so it may be worth waiting to see what arrives later this year.

TV & Home

The Apple TV has slowly evolved into an essential piece of hardware for the living room. It delivers all the essential services and allows you to stream content from your Apple devices to the big screen. You can also use Playstation and Xbox controllers to take app games and Apple Arcade to another level. Their HomePods have now been included in this section of their site, which I think reflects their focus on home devices.

Apple TV 4K

It’s easy now, as there’s just one Apple TV model. It arrived at the end of last year, there are some big changes and it’s cheaper. I would always go for the 128GB model with ethernet, as you get so much more for just £20. The new Apple TV will deliver everything you need for the latest TVs and sound systems, so it’s definitely worth upgrading from an older, pre-2017 model.

Last updated: October 2022

HomePod

The big HomePod is back. After the popular original was discontinued, we all wondered what would take its place. We got our answer early this year, with a new and improved model. They sound great, they are easy to use and you can pair them together for impressive audio. Just bear in mind that you can’t pair them with the older ones though.

Last updated: January 2023

HomePod mini

At this price, the mini is never going to be as good as it’s big brother, but I’m sure it will surprise you. It’s ideal if you want to build up a collection around the house, even if you just use them as voice assistants. It’s been around a while though, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we see an update soon. You can also pair them together if you need to.

Last updated: October 2020

Conclusions

While the Apple TV is a great device, it’s not a replacement for an Xbox or Playstation. It’s still worth owning alongside either of these though and offers so much more than cheaper streaming sticks.

In terms of the HomePod, I have several of the originals, as well as a mini, and I can’t recommend them enough. While you really do need to be in the Apple ecosystem, they just make listening to music so easy. You’re sure to regret cheaper alternatives. It may be worth exploring what Sonos offer if you’re looking for high quality audio around the house though.

I hope this helps and I’m sure you can see how someone could pay a lot of money for something that was soon out-of-date, or way too advanced for their requirements. I’d also appreciate it if you could pass this on to anyone you know who may find it useful.

I’ll keep this guide updated, so please bookmark it for when you next need it.

The world of Apple is changing all the time, so I’ll keep a close eye on it so you don’t have to. The next update should arrive in September, when the new phones and watches arrive.

Before I go, I think it would help to remind you that rumours are just rumours and I’ve shared a lot of opinions here. Please check anything important with Apple or the retailer.