Chapter 1: The Appeal of Vintage Tech

Acquiring a second-hand MacBook Air has proven to be a fantastic outlet for my tinkering interests.

2012 11-inch MacBook Air.

Reflecting on my recent article about my love for retro technology, I decided to purchase a 2012 MacBook Air primarily for nostalgic reasons. As a parent of two, revisiting the technology that brings me joy while also being able to repurpose it affordably is both exciting and fulfilling.

This MacBook Air isn't intended to replace my primary workstation, an Asus Zenbook 14X; rather, it serves as my dedicated tinkering laptop. It’s a device where I can experiment freely, whether it's installing Ubuntu, customizing its appearance, or diving into various Linux tools I've yet to explore.

Currently, I use this MacBook Air as an alternative to my Zenbook. My essential apps include Thunderbird for email, MarkText for writing, and Microsoft Edge for browsing. The only additional application installed is Office 365, which allows me to upload markdown files from MarkText to OneDrive for editing and publishing on my Zenbook.

MarkText in Ubuntu on MacBook Air.

I refer to this device as my tinkering laptop because it allows for complete freedom. There’s no critical data stored on it, nor do I rely on specific workflows. I can wipe it clean and install a new operating system whenever I choose.

Upon receiving the MacBook Air, I discovered that the previous owner had set up OpenCore to run macOS Sonoma. While this was functional, I aimed for a lighter system for better performance. After deliberation, I settled on installing Ubuntu.

I am quite pleased with my decision. Ubuntu operates remarkably well on this MacBook, which was a pleasant surprise. The only downside I’ve encountered is battery life; when not plugged in, the device only lasts a few hours. I suspect this is more related to the aging hardware than the operating system itself.

Gnome Tweaks in Ubuntu on MacBook Air.

A few hours of battery life suffices for my needs. I can easily draft an article on the couch or in bed before worrying about recharging. Moreover, I always have an outlet nearby, so I’m not overly concerned about power usage, especially since this isn’t my primary device.

One of the appealing features of early MacBook Airs is their build quality. The aluminum casing and the backlit keyboard are standout characteristics. I appreciate the compact 11-inch screen, which still accommodates a full-size keyboard that feels great to type on. The nostalgia I feel when using this device is powerful, and I suspect it will linger.

So far, I have created a bootable Ubuntu installation on a USB drive to replace macOS. This process was straightforward, taking about an hour, and to my relief, Ubuntu recognized all necessary drivers, including those for Wi-Fi, keyboard backlighting, and function buttons.

Ubuntu desktop on MacBook Air.

After installing Ubuntu, I followed a couple of YouTube tutorials to find and customize theme options. I wasn't fond of the default theme, so I opted for a new theme called Orchid, which enhanced the overall aesthetic of the OS, making my windows, icons, applications, and shell visually appealing.

At this stage, my tinkering has been limited to these upgrades. I’ve contemplated turning this machine into a Plex server, but keeping it always-on poses some challenges. It serves well as a compact device for checking email or writing without needing to use my larger Zenbook.

Ultimately, having a computer to experiment with brings me joy, as I can play around without the fear of damaging critical workflows. I believe it’s crucial for tech enthusiasts to have space to explore and experiment, as this prevents boredom and the impulse to purchase unnecessary gadgets.

My passion for technology is what identifies me as a geek. However, I often feel that the visual allure of new gadgets overshadows their practicality. The desire for the latest devices, like the M3 MacBook Air or the latest MacBook Pros, can be compelling, especially when I see them showcased in captivating Instagram posts or YouTube thumbnails.

2012 11-inch MacBook Air.

Yet, as I continue to use both my Zenbook and the 11-inch Air, my desire for new purchases diminishes. The satisfaction I derive from utilizing technology meets my needs, counteracting the urge to constantly buy new gadgets.

This article was originally published on Techuisite. If you wish to support Techuisite directly, please sign up below:

The first video titled "Tinkering vs Engineering: Can You Build a Laptop from Scratch?" delves into the distinctions between simple tinkering and the engineering processes that could allow one to construct a laptop from the ground up.

The second video, "Tinkering With An Old Laptop With A Bit Of An Identity Crisis. Surely This Ain't No Macbook - Part 01," explores the quirks and challenges of reviving an old laptop, emphasizing creativity in the tinkering process.