We Surveyed 13,700 People About How They Use MacBooks and Here’s What We Found

You know how everyone’s got a unique way of using their MacBook? Some are all about those work vibes, while others might be deep into a Netflix binge.

We were super curious about it, so we reached out to 13,700 folks to see how they’re using their MacBooks in their daily lives. And the results are kinda mind-blowing.

Whether you’re a tech geek or just someone who loves a good Apple product, you’re gonna want to see what we found out. If you’re keen to understand the broader trends and perhaps even pick up a tip or two, read on to discover what we found.

About Our Survey

We reached out to 13,700 MacBook users to get a comprehensive understanding of how they use their devices. Among the respondents, a significant portion were professionals, students, creatives, and tech enthusiasts.

Our primary audience for this survey was everyday MacBook users, but we were keen to see if there were any distinct patterns among different user groups. By cross-referencing the background of participants with their responses, we unearthed some fascinating insights.

To ensure a diverse set of responses, we promoted the survey through various channels, including our newsletter, social media platforms, and even some targeted ads. The aim was to capture a wide spectrum of MacBook users, from those who’ve just started their journey to seasoned pros with over a decade of experience. We categorized our participants based on their tech-savviness and divided them into three sets:

1. Extremely Tech Savvy (30%)
2. Somewhat Tech Savvy (63.3%)
3. Not Tech Savvy (6.7%)

Throughout our analysis, we noticed that certain user groups, especially those with more years under their belt, had distinct usage patterns compared to newer users. We’ll dive deep into these nuances in the following sections.

Given the diverse nature of our respondents, the insights we’ve gathered provide a holistic view of MacBook usage, minimizing any potential bias towards a specific group or niche. This ensures our findings are representative of the broader MacBook community.

The Average User Spends 6-8 Hours Using Their MacBook

Across various user profiles, the average MacBook user spends between 6 to 8 hours on their device daily.

This means people use their MacBook for 180-240 hours each month. That’s a lot of time, given all the things you can do on a MacBook.

Interestingly, there’s a noticeable trend when we dive deeper. Professionals, especially those in creative fields, tend to spend closer to the 8-hour mark, while casual users hover around the 6-hour range.

What truly piqued our interest was the sharp increase in usage hours among users who have had their MacBooks for 5+ years.

• Users with 5+ years of MacBook ownership spend an average of 7.5 hours daily.
• Those in the 3-5 year bracket average around 7 hours.
• New MacBook owners, with less than a year of ownership, typically spend about 6 hours.

There seems to be a familiarity curve when it comes to MacBook usage. As users become more accustomed to the ecosystem and discover the vast capabilities of their devices, their usage time tends to increase.

A Majority of MacBook Users Are Aged Between 18-34

According to our survey, the age distribution of MacBook users is as follows:

• 18-24 years old: 27.2%
• 25-34 years old: 28.9%
• 35-44 years old: 21.1%
• 45-54 years old: 11.4%
• 55-64 years old: 7%
• 65 years old and over: 4.4%

This means the largest group of MacBook users are young millennials and Gen-Zs, making up over 60% of the total user base. This is likely because MacBooks are popular among students and young professionals, who are drawn to their portability, power, and user-friendly interface.

Diving deeper into the demographics, we found an interesting tidbit: the distribution between genders is fairly even. This suggests that MacBooks appeal universally, irrespective of gender.

28% of MacBook Users Are Professionals and 26% Are Students

Our survey discovered that 28% of MacBook users are professionals, while 26% are actively pursuing their education as students. The remaining 46% of users fall into other categories, such as creatives, tech enthusiasts, retirees, homemakers, and entrepreneurs.

This distribution of MacBook users is not surprising, given the laptop’s popularity among professionals and students.

Professionals are drawn to MacBooks for their powerful performance, long battery life, and user-friendly operating system. Students appreciate MacBooks for their portability, reliability, and wide range of educational software.

75% of MacBook Users Use It for Work-Related Tasks

A striking 75% of respondents primarily use their MacBook for work-related tasks, such as browsing the web, checking email, creating and editing documents, and participating in video conferences.

26% of MacBook users are students who use their devices for taking notes, completing assignments, and accessing learning materials. 15% of MacBook users are creative professionals who use their devices for tasks such as photo editing, video editing, and graphic design. 10% of MacBook users use their devices primarily for entertainment purposes, such as watching movies and TV shows, playing games, and listening to music.

Diving deeper into work-related activities, we found that tasks such as video conferencing, software development, graphic design, and document editing are among the top uses for MacBook owners in the professional sphere.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the primary use cases for MacBook users, by profession:

An Average Mac User Uses Their Device for 3.5 Years Before Upgrading

A significant 42% of respondents have been using their current MacBook for 3 to 4 years. This offers a glimpse into the durability and longevity of MacBooks. With a substantial portion of users holding onto their devices for 3-4 years, it’s evident MacBooks are built to last and continue to perform efficiently over time.

Here is a breakdown of the percentage of MacBook users who have been using their current device for different lengths of time, based on our survey:

The majority of MacBook users have been using their current device for 2-4 years. This is likely because MacBooks are known for their durability and long lifespan. On average, respondents upgrade their MacBook every 3.5 years.

However, there is also a significant number of users who keep their devices for 5+ years. The insights suggest that for many, a MacBook isn’t just a short-term investment.

Diving into the reasons behind this 3-4-year sweet spot, we found that factors such as consistent software updates, robust build quality, and the device’s ability to handle evolving workloads play a crucial role.

66% of MacBook Users Consider Touch ID Useful and Use It Daily

66% of respondents said that they find the Touch ID feature on their MacBook useful and incorporate it into their daily routine.

Of these 66%, 78% use Touch ID to unlock their Mac, 67% use it to authorize purchases, 56% use it to make payments with Apple Pay, 52% use it to fill in passwords and credit card information, 46% use Touch ID to switch between user accounts, and 42% use it to sign into third-party apps.

As you can see, unlocking the Mac is the most popular use case for Touch ID, followed by authorizing purchases and making payments with Apple Pay.

Filling in passwords and credit card information is also a popular use case, as it can save users a lot of time and hassle. Users also use Touch ID to switch between user accounts and sign into third-party apps but to a lesser extent.

52% of MacBook Users Find the Touch Bar Useful

Our survey indicates that 52% of MacBook users with Touch Bar reported using it in their daily tasks, showcasing its integration into their workflow. In this 52%, we found that 78% were creative professionals using the Touch Bar for tasks like scrubbing through footage while video editing, accessing frequently used tools, inserting emojis and symbols, etc.

The remaining 22% used it for other casual tasks, like adjusting system settings, controlling media playback, and accessing frequently used apps.

On the other hand, 17% of those with the Touch Bar-equipped MacBook said they had the feature but did not use it. When asked for a reason in an open-ended question, we got answers like finding the Touch Bar redundant, unnecessary, or not intuitive enough for their specific use cases.

Overall, the data suggests that the Touch Bar is a polarizing feature, with some MacBook users finding it to be a useful and innovative addition, while others find it to be a gimmick or even a hindrance.

Midnight Is the Most Popular MacBook Color Variant Among Users

The most popular MacBook color is Midnight (53%), followed by Space Gray (22%), Starlight (14%), and Silver (12%).

There are a few reasons why Midnight may be so popular. First, it is a new color that was introduced in 2022. Second, it is a darker color that can be more forgiving of fingerprints and smudges. Third, it is a unique color that stands out from other laptops.

Of course, personal preference plays a big role in choosing a MacBook color. Some people may prefer the classic Silver or Space Gray, while others may prefer the more modern Starlight or Midnight.

Spotlight Is the Most Useful macOS Feature According to 68% of MacBook Users

Spotlight stands out as the most invaluable macOS feature, with 68% of respondents selecting it as their top choice. This highlights the significance users place on efficient data searching and retrieval.

The insights depict a tech-savvy user base keen on quick access to their information. The automatic search function, the ability to instantly find files, and its seamless integration with macOS make Spotlight a favorite among users.

While Spotlight is a top choice, other macOS features also have their merits. We asked our participants about which macOS features they found the most useful besides Spotlight. Since it was an open-ended question, we got diverse replies. Many users liked how their Mac connects smoothly with their iPad or another Mac, especially for screen sharing. Others praised features as simple as the Dock or screenshot shortcuts and for some, AirDrop was the most useful feature.

So, besides the 68% of MacBook users who find Spotlight useful, 56% favored easy screenshots, 33% chose screensharing, and 14% picked other things, like AirDrop, Dock, or Split View.

Safari Is the Most Used App on Mac With 84% of MacBook Users Accessing It Daily

Safari is the most commonly used native app on MacBook with 84% of users accessing it daily. It signifies its importance in the daily digital routines of MacBook users.

Following closely, Finder is accessed by 78% of users daily. Next, we have Mail with 67% of users accessing it daily, highlighting its role as a primary communication tool. Another favorite is Notes with 65% of users turning to it regularly. 46% of users access Calculator on MacBook daily while 42% use FaceTime on a daily basis.

Apple’s native apps are used frequently by MacBook users, with 65% using them daily. The high daily usage can be attributed to their seamless integration with macOS and the broader Apple ecosystem.

Google Chrome Is the Most Frequently Used Third-Party Application on MacBooks (67%)

67% of MacBook users use Google Chrome, making it the top third-party application on Mac.

While Apple’s native apps hold significant sway, third-party apps like Google Chrome have carved out their own niche. As a web browser, Chrome’s prominence suggests many MacBook users value its speed, extensions, and synchronization capabilities across devices.

When we dive deeper into why Google Chrome is a favorite, factors such as its vast library of extensions, compatibility with various web standards, and seamless integration with Google services come to light.

71% of MacBook Users Have Reported an Increase in MacBook Usage Due to the Pandemic

The pandemic’s impact on digital behavior is undeniable. Beyond just work and education, many have turned to their MacBooks for entertainment, online shopping, and staying informed about the evolving situation.

Our survey found a significant 71% of respondents indicated their MacBook usage saw an uptick as a direct result of the pandemic. With many transitioning to remote work, online learning, and virtual social interactions, the MacBook has emerged as an essential tool for connectivity and productivity.

Diving into the specifics of this increased usage, we found tasks such as video conferencing, online collaboration, and digital content consumption have seen a marked rise.

As work, education, and social interactions have increasingly moved online, the MacBook facilitates seamless transitions and ensures continuity in a rapidly changing world.

85% of MacBook Users Install the Latest macOS Update As Soon As It Arrives

A notable 85% of respondents shared they install the latest macOS update as soon as it becomes available. The eagerness to stay updated underscores the trust users place in Apple’s software enhancements, security patches, and feature additions.

While the majority are quick to update their software, the remaining 15% prefer to wait, ensuring any initial bugs are ironed out, while others might be content with their current macOS version. However, the dominant trend is clear: staying updated is a priority for most.

Diving into the reasons behind this prompt updating behavior, factors such as enhanced security, improved performance, and the charm of new features stand out as primary motivators.

On the other hand, hardware updates (purchasing a new device) are less frequent. 50% get a new one every 3-4 years, 15% every 1-2 years, and 35% wait more than 4 years. So, while people like new software updates, they keep their devices for a long time before getting a new one.

28% of MacBook Users Have Purchased Extended Warranties or AppleCare+ for Their Devices

28% of MacBook users have purchased AppleCare+ or extended warranties. We also found that AppleCare+ is more popular among high-end MacBook users, with 36% of MacBook Pro users and 35% of MacBook Air users having purchased AppleCare+.

Many MacBook users are buying AppleCare or extended warranties because Macs cost a lot. AppleCare+ helps if the MacBook gets damaged and gives extra services like fast tech support and two repairs for accidents every year.

Before, you could only get AppleCare+ within two months of buying a new MacBook. Now, Apple lets you buy it up to a year after getting a new MacBook. This gives people more time to think about it and see if they like their MacBook.

44% of MacBook Users Use an Antivirus

According to our survey results, 44% of MacBook users use antivirus software. This data shows that MacBook users value security with antivirus software.

Even though MacBooks are often touted for their robust security features, many users surveyed prefer an extra layer of protection against potential threats.

There are many reasons why MacBook users might choose to use antivirus software. Some users may feel the built-in security features of macOS are not enough to protect them from malware. Others may be concerned about the growing number of threats that are specifically targeting Mac devices.

iCloud Is Used By 88% of MacBook Users for Backups and Storage

A dominant 88% of MacBook users use iCloud as their primary tool for backups and storage. This statistic underscores the trust and reliance MacBook users place on Apple’s integrated cloud solution.

iCloud, with its seamless integration across Apple devices and user-friendly interface, offers a convenient and efficient way to store data, photos, documents, and more. Most users prefer iCloud due to automatic backups, synchronization across devices, and the security of data stored in the cloud.

The insights from the survey suggest the digital landscape is increasingly moving towards cloud-based solutions. However, while iCloud stands out as the preferred choice, the remaining 12% might be using alternative cloud services, external drives, or even other backup solutions tailored to their specific needs.

62% of MacBook Users Feel the Need for More USB-C Ports on Their Devices

62% of MacBook users wanted more USB-C ports on their devices. This suggests that there is a significant demand for more USB-C ports among MacBook users, especially MacBook Air and Pro users who have to work with only two USB-C ports.

MacBook users may feel the need for more USB-C ports because it is a versatile connector that can be used for a variety of purposes, including data transfer, power delivery, and video output. So, if MacBook users have more USB-C ports, they can connect to a wider range of devices without adapters.

Plus, MacBook users who use multiple external devices for work or school, such as external monitors, storage drives, and audio interfaces, may need more USB-C ports to accommodate all devices.

Only 35% of MacBook Users Have Used Their Machines for Programming or Coding

A minority of MacBook users (35%) have used their devices for programming or coding. This suggests while MacBooks are not exclusively used for this purpose, they are a popular choice among developers and those learning to code.

While MacBooks are often associated with the tech and developer community due to their robust performance and Unix-based operating systems, a majority of users seem to have other primary uses for their machines.

For the 35% who do delve into coding, the MacBook offers a powerful platform, compatible with a range of development tools and languages. However, the remaining 65% showcases the MacBook’s versatility, catering to tasks ranging from content creation, design, and education, to everyday browsing and entertainment.

Digging deeper into the reasons behind this distribution, it’s possible many users might not be in professions or hobbies that require coding. Alternatively, they might be using other specialized devices or platforms for their programming needs.

40% of MacBook Users Have Used Their Device for Gaming

Many people use MacBooks for work and studies. But our survey found that 40% of MacBook users also use it for gaming.

The average rating for MacBook gaming performance is 3.5 out of 5. This suggests while MacBooks can handle gaming to some extent, they might not be the first choice for serious gamers. However, casual gamers seem to be content with their MacBook’s gaming performance.

For the 40% who have ventured into gaming on their MacBook, the device offers a blend of crisp graphics, smooth performance, and a vast library of game titles. However, the remaining 60% might be primarily using their MacBook for work, education, or other non-gaming activities, or perhaps they have dedicated gaming consoles or PCs.

25% of MacBook Users Are Fans of Their Mac’s Speed/Performance

When asked what they liked most about their MacBook, respondents commonly mentioned performance/speed (25%), design/aesthetics (21%), and user interface/ease of use (19%).

While MacBooks are renowned for their sleek design and user-friendly interface, for 25% of users, the device’s speed and responsiveness stand out as its most commendable feature. Factors such as quick boot times, seamless multitasking, and the ability to handle resource-intensive applications might be driving this admiration.

Other notable factors were reliability/durability (16%) and the integration with the Apple ecosystem (15%). A smaller proportion of users (5%) mentioned other various factors. These insights highlight the key strengths of the MacBook that drive user satisfaction and loyalty.

MacBook Users Rate the Battery Life of Their Devices 8 Out of 10

MacBook users are generally satisfied with the battery life of their devices, with an average satisfaction rating of 8 out of 10.

This is likely due to several factors, including Apple’s use of energy-efficient components in its MacBook designs, macOS – which is optimized for battery life, and a variety of features that allow users to extend battery life, such as Power Nap and Low Power Mode.

However, there is some variation in battery life satisfaction depending on the specific MacBook model and how it is used. For example, users of high-performance models such as the MacBook Pro may experience shorter battery life than users of more energy-efficient models such as the MacBook Air.

Plus, users who engage in demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming may also experience shorter battery life. But overall, MacBook users are generally satisfied with the battery life of their devices.

The Average Rating of MacBook Sound Quality Is 4.3 Out of 5

In our extensive survey, the sound quality of MacBooks received an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5. This statistic provides a clear testament to the MacBook’s audio capabilities.

While MacBooks are often celebrated for their visual display and performance, it’s evident that their acoustic output is also resonating positively with users. Factors such as clarity, depth, bass response, and overall audio balance contribute to this favorable reception.

MacBook’s built-in speakers, known for their rich and full-bodied sound, likely play a significant role in achieving this high rating. Additionally, the device’s ability to handle various audio tasks, from music playback to video conferencing, further accentuates its sound quality.

MacBook Users Use Their Device While Plugged In 60% of the Time

On average, MacBook users use their device on battery power 40% of the time and plugged in 60% of the time. This statistic offers a glimpse into the charging and usage habits of MacBook users. While MacBooks are known for their robust battery life, it appears that a majority of users prefer the assurance of continuous power by keeping their devices plugged in.

Considering this trend, it’s intriguing to ponder the reasons behind such behavior. Some users might be involved in power-intensive tasks that demand consistent performance, while others might be adopting a “better safe than sorry” approach to ensure their device doesn’t run out of juice during crucial moments.

Plus, factors such as longer work hours, heavy multimedia consumption, or simply the convenience of having a charging point nearby might be influencing this behavior. While the device is equipped to handle extended periods off the charger, user preferences and situational demands often dictate its power source.

If MacBook Users Could Improve One Thing About Their Machines, It Would Be More Ports for 66% of Them

MacBooks have notoriously few ports, which can make it difficult to connect multiple devices at the same time. 66% of MacBook users would like to have more ports, including USB-A and USB-C ports, as well as an HDMI port and an SD card reader.

While 66% of MacBook users want more ports, other popular responses included better battery life (23%), more storage (18%), better performance (15%), and a lower price (12%).

Considering this feedback, it’s interesting to imagine why these users want more ports on their Macs. They could be people who use many devices at once, professionals who need to connect multiple tools to their MacBooks, or tech lovers who want more options for gadgets and accessories.

78% of MacBook Users Also Own At Least One Other Apple Device

A compelling 78% of respondents revealed that they have at least one other Apple device in addition to their MacBook.

While MacBooks stand as a testament to design and performance, a significant portion of users are drawn to the seamless connectivity and unified experience offered by owning multiple Apple devices. Factors such as iCloud integration, Handoff functionality, and a unified user experience across devices are driving this behavior.

Whether it’s the iPhone for its ubiquitous presence, the iPad for its versatility, the Apple Watch for its health and connectivity features, or the Apple TV for entertainment, the allure of the Apple ecosystem is undeniable.

47% of MacBook Users Use At Least One Add-On or Accessory With Their MacBooks

47% of MacBook users enhance their experience by using at least one add-on or accessory.

The most commonly used MacBook accessory among the respondents is the external mouse, with 68% using it daily. AirPods are also frequently used, with 56% of users using them daily. The external keyboard is used less frequently, with 38% of users using it daily. The external trackpad is the least commonly used accessory, with only 11% of users using it daily, and 69% rarely or never using it.

These statistics provide a window into the customization and enhancement habits of MacBook users. While the MacBook itself is a marvel of design and functionality, a significant portion of users seek to further tailor their experience with various accessories.

45% of MacBook Users Have Reported Slow Performance of Their System

A noteworthy 45% of MacBook users have experienced moments where their MacBook’s performance didn’t meet their expectations, reporting instances of slowed system operations. While MacBooks are often praised for their swift operations and robust capabilities, a significant portion of users have faced moments of sluggishness or reduced responsiveness.

Factors such as software updates, heavy multitasking, prolonged usage, or even aging hardware might play a role in these reported slowdowns. It’s also worth considering how users address these issues. Some might turn to optimization tools, seek software solutions, or even consider hardware upgrades to rejuvenate their device’s performance.

Only 10% of MacBook Users Turn to Apple Support When They Encounter a Problem With Their Device

As per our survey, only 10% of MacBook users contact Apple support when they encounter a problem with their devices.

There are a few reasons why MacBook users might not contact Apple Support when they have a problem with their device. They may be able to solve the problem on their own. Some MacBook users may not know that they can contact Apple Support for help. They may be hesitant to contact Apple Support because they think it will be too expensive.

Overall, the percentage of MacBook users who turn to Apple Support when they encounter a problem with their device is relatively low. This is likely due to several factors, including the availability of self-support resources, the lack of awareness of Apple Support, and the fear of high costs.

Among respondents who have used Apple’s customer service for their MacBook, the average rating of their experience was 4.0 out of 5, indicating a generally positive experience. However, this data only represents the 10% of respondents who reported using Apple’s customer service, so it may not fully reflect the experiences of all MacBook users.

65% of MacBook Users Have Not Had to Have Their MacBook Repaired

A striking 65% of respondents indicated they’ve never had to send their MacBook in for repairs. This highlights the robustness and reliability of MacBooks. The MacBook’s premium build quality, meticulous design, and Apple’s rigorous quality control checks might play pivotal roles in ensuring long-lasting performance.

However, 30% of MacBook users have experienced hardware issues with their devices. This implies that while MacBooks are generally reliable and durable, some users do encounter hardware problems.

Among respondents who had needed repairs, 60% reported a positive experience with Apple’s customer service.

36% of MacBook Users Are Considering Purchasing the Newest MacBook Model Within the Next Year

36% of MacBook users are considering purchasing the newest model within the next year. This number suggests that there is a growing demand for new MacBooks among existing users.

There are a few potential reasons for this trend. First, Apple has been consistently releasing new MacBook models with significant performance and feature improvements. For example, the latest MacBook Pros feature the new M2 and M1 chips, which offer significant performance gains over the previous generation.

Second, MacBook users are typically loyal to the brand. According to our survey, 85% of MacBook users would recommend their device to a friend. This loyalty is likely due to the high quality and reliability of MacBook devices.

Third, the MacBook ecosystem is very sticky. Once users have invested in MacBook accessories, such as docks, chargers, and cases, they are less likely to switch to a different brand of laptop.

85% of MacBook Users Would Recommend a Mac to a Friend

A resounding 85% of MacBook users expressed being satisfied with their MacBook and that they would wholeheartedly recommend a MacBook to a friend or colleague. This statistic is a testament to the MacBook’s ability to win over its users. With such a high percentage willing to advocate for the brand, it’s evident the MacBook experience resonates positively with the majority.

Diving into future purchase intentions, a significant 75% of those surveyed are already eyeing a MacBook as their next laptop choice. Besides, a large majority of MacBook users (80%) stated they would choose a MacBook if they were to purchase a new laptop today. This suggests high satisfaction with their current device and loyalty to the MacBook brand. The primary reasons for choosing a MacBook were the operating system (48%) and design (30%).

However, 20% indicated they would choose a different laptop, suggesting there is some competition in the laptop market.