I was shopping around for a new laptop suitable for software development (Docker, VS Code, C#, node.js, local MySQL and other dbs, etc) and I narrowed it down to X1 Carbon and MacBook Pro 15″. I needed something beefy to run Docker, as well as something light as I carry the laptop to work. Display, battery life, and design are my top considerations.

MacBook hit all the notes – great display with good PPI and aspect ratio, light, good battery life, and great design. Only thing that made me hesitate is the negative reviews on the internet criticizing the butterfly keyboard found on the new MacBooks. My previous MacBook Pro 17″ (from 2010) is still kicking strong, and I never had an issue with its keyboard.

On my workstations at home I use Das Keyboard with Cherry MX Brown. I also have IBM Model M keyboard. So I’m used to higher actuation force.

I was pleasantly surprised at how well the butterfly keyboard feels. It’s similar to a mechanical keyboard — it’s clicky and the key engages without having to travel far. My old MacBook’s keyboard now feels mushy (so does the keyboard on the X1 Carbon).

If you are shopping for a laptop and prefer mechanical keyboards – you can ignore the negative reviews of the MacBook’s keyboards. As far as “sticky key” problem is concerned – if it ever happens I’ll send the laptop to Apple for a fix. It does not worry me. Just remember to keep to keyboard clean.