If you’re struggling to decide whether you need to buy a case for your MacBook, this guide will help.

Despite its premium price, the MacBook isn’t perfectly durable. While it can last years with the right care, it can also turn into a brick in a matter of seconds at the hands of physical damage.

Unlike Apple Watches and iPhones, none of Apple’s MacBook models are the least bit water-resistant. And while your MacBook might survive a few accidental drops, there is no guarantee that it will run as smoothly afterward.

With this, you may be wondering if your MacBook needs a case for added protection. However, here are some things you should definitely consider before buying a MacBook case.

When it comes to the MacBook, it’s designed to work perfectly as it is. With this, it’s no wonder why its sleek design, straight out-of-the-box, works perfectly to dissipate heat and prevent overheating.

So, while some cases can physically protect your MacBook, they can also seal off areas your MacBook uses to dissipate heat. In fact, some badly designed cases do not take into consideration where your particular MacBook model’s vents are, which quickly leads to your MacBook overheating.

In addition, if you like to use your MacBook on surfaces like bedsheets or couches, a case may also further trap the heat inside. And, as with any electronic device, excess heat can damage your internal components.

In some cases, poorly designed cases can also create damage to your MacBook’s aluminum case. Due to badly fitting latches, several users have reported how cases caused dents to appear on the body of their MacBook.

However, there are some reasons why the pros outweigh the cons for MacBook cases.

Here are some things you should consider if you’re thinking about investing in a MacBook Case.

Despite being a laptop, most people don’t actually use their MacBook on their lap. After all, it’s ideal that your MacBook stays on flat surfaces like tables when you’re using it. Should you be the type to only ever use your MacBook on a desk in your home or office, the chances of it getting damaged are already pretty low.

However, if you’re constantly going from one point to another and regularly expose yourself to the elements, a case might be necessary. For example, if you live in a country with extreme temperatures, a case or sleeve can help regulate the internal temperature of your device, leading to less damage.

If your lifestyle puts your laptop in danger of falling or getting wet, you may still want to consider a case. For example, certain professions, such as DJs or photographers, are often around liquids, in constantly changing environments, and so on. What’s more, people who regularly do field work, like sales personnel or scientists, may need more durable cases for when they’re on the road.

For some people, MacBook cases aren’t really about protection, they’re more about expression or differentiation. After all, a case is one way to make sure your MacBook looks as good as possible.

If you live in a household or work in an office where there are multiple MacBook users, a case can mean the difference between someone accidentally bringing your laptop home or not.

If you’re the type of person who routinely sells old electronics whenever you need to upgrade, the right case might be a good investment to make sure your MacBook holds its value.

As with all types of second-hand purchases, cosmetic appearances are crucial to how a product is priced. A good, well-fitting MacBook case can help you avoid dents and scratches from accidents, so you still get a good price for your device when sold. That said, if you choose the wrong case you can actually create more cosmetic damage on your MacBook.

If you decide you do need a case, it’s still best to choose a case that is right for you. For MacBook users, there are several types of cases which you can choose from if you do decide that a case is for you: hard-case, soft-case, and laptop sleeve.

When buying a MacBook case, make sure to read the reviews of previous buyers thoroughly, even the negative ones. After all, there have already been reports of cases causing various MacBook models to overheat, dent, and so on. Alternatively, some professionals may actually need not just an ordinary case, but those that can withstand the stress of their particular lifestyle.

Quina is a staff writer for MUO, resident adrenaline junkie, and lover of all things tech. She is primarily based in Southeast Asia and graduated with a degree in Information Design.

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