The $800 Apple Ecosystem - Why do you need more?

[@semzip8558]

Love the concept of this. It’s so counter-culture for tech KZbin but realistic for the majority of people.

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton!! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it. I do like to have a simple setup, and I don’t see the point of always chasing the latest and greatest!

[@smaad7]

indeed this is the reality not everyone buys an 1700$ 256 iphone then immediately follows it with an apple watch ultra I love it too

[@MaiElizabeth]

Totally agree.

[@rbruce63]

Indeed it is! However, it's a pity that the AppleWatch 5's battery is faltering -mine on a Series 3 GPS + Cellular is still strong- and they ApplePods 2nd generation too. On mines the Series 1 the LH dies on the outright so I bought used 2nds and use the Series 1 charging station with success! The M1 Air is a blast to use!

[@shahnaseebb6175]

man you're getting a LOT from $800! This ecosystem sounds great.

[@zircoben]

Thank you!!

[@jaredfranklin]

My setup carrying me in uni is: iPhone 13 Pro, iPad 9 (with pencil), MacBook Air M1, AW series 9, AirPods Pro (1). I like how this video shows you don’t always need the newest stuff to get all the features.

[@zircoben]

Thank you! Your setup is awesome; and you have a really similar mindset to me, from what I can tell! Keep rocking the setup:)

[@KatelandVu]

@@zircoben Same mines is no Mac nor iPad; just same AirPods like you, gold SS S6 Apple Watch, iPhone XR, and two non Apple laptops, one work and other personal. Been iPad-free since 2018.

[@whatispizza]

Totally agree. This $800 pack is smart for guiding people that used goods can still serve you well. I love the resourcefulness of repairing the thunderbolt ports.

[@arelymalpica9994]

Mine includes the Apple Watch Series 8, iPhone 13 Pro, AirPods Second Generation, iPad Air M1 and a MacBook Air 2020. Loved this video! Please do more!

[@Kapil__Lanjewar]

I have the same list of products except I got Macbook Pro M1

[@zircoben]

Awesome!! The 13 Pro is a beast, that will treat you well for a few years to come. Thanks so much for checking out the video ;)

[@MrHeartlessLP]

Same with AirPods Pro

[@budimanaji90]

Hello..I heard rumor about green screen issue about iphone 13 pro.. Is that true ? I have plan to buy between 13 pro and 13 base model

[@iustinepanu4213]

@@budimanaji90No. I’ve been having the 13 pro for two years now and it’s still perfect(battery, screen, etc. is like new)

[@J2js7argcj4ttx]

once people overcome the fear of second hand, and refurbished, they would soon realise how much better of. a deal there getting. 700/1000 for a brand new iphone and 1000/1200 for a mac and 150/250 for airpods is honestly laughable when you realise last gens line up is significantly cheaper, often times works just as fine, and for the few additional features you may loose out on, you can put aside for additional apple products, such as a watch or an ipad. its only after you realise that the software is more or less the same for all the devices, that buying brand new just isnt as worth it in the long run. buying used and upgrading more frequently would also be a better strategy.

[@zircoben]

Absolutely - the Used market is so much better, and people are too afraid to touch it. They will only buy new and MAYBE certified refurbished - but I find a $450 macbook air and save $300 compared to someone buying refurb. I usually wait for devices to be less than half of their original price before I will buy them - let someone else take that brunt of depreciation! As you say, most of the experience is the software.

[@bassyey]

There is legitimate concerns for second-hand. I won't be buying shit like that. You won't know the real state of their battery (no not what the system says). But refurbished is great. Apple actually renews the battery on their refurbished products. That means you get it as new as it can get.

[@goudendynamiethd2117]

Here in the Netherlands it's impossible to get a MacBook Air M1 for under 600 and that would be used, not even refurbished. The other devices would be significantly pricier too. 600 MacBook + 110 AirPods + 369 iPhone 13 Mini + 250 Watch = EUR 1329 for this instead of USD 800. That's a USD 600 difference...

[@zircoben]

I totally understand the price differential between USA and almost anywhere else in the world. To be fair on my end, I budget hunt and get devices usually in poor condition, and I spend a lot of time trying to find good deals.

[@gabrielvilaca3453]

Bro this sad, i live in Brazil and make this look cheap is absolutly impossibel. Convert $800 for Real is R$5.000,00. Imagine you pay 5.000 dollars for build a apple ecossistem? But if the bill was like that I would be happy, because a iphone used costs R$5.000,00 hahahaha god dement

[@zircoben]

@@gabrielvilaca3453 Dang that sucks!! Sorry man

[@nikolamilivojevic1942]

@@gabrielvilaca3453 bro its a different currency. are you trolling or just incredibly stupid?

[@jappau1379]

Same here. In authorized retailers of apple products here, this would go at around 800usd already for the base model. Import expenses are such a pain plus the fact that apple’s price is already high lol

[@DeyvidSimeonov]

Mine includes the iPhone 11, iPad 7th gen, MacBook Air M2, AirPods Pro 2nd gen, HomePod mini, and the Apple Watch Series 4. All of them are great but the 7th gen iPad is getting kinda slow. I am considering upgrading to refurbished iPad Pro M1 straight from Apple. They sell it for a great price. I do love your setup and it shows that even if you don't own the latest and greatest, it can still work perfectly fine and serve you for years to come.

[@SamuPremium-mc5is]

Hi , I replaced my 6th gen iPad with a refurbished iPad Pro m1 (11”) and I couldn’t be happier, it’s amazing and I got a great deal, so 100% recommended

[@zircoben]

@DeyvidSimeonov The 7th gen iPad is definitely the weak spot there - I bet the Apple Watch S4 is still totally fine outside of battery life right?

[@DeyvidSimeonov]

@@zircoben The Apple Watch is actually perfect still. The battery lasts me a whole day, no issues yet.😌

[@zircoben]

@@DeyvidSimeonov Wow, that's awesome! I bet I got a lemon of a Series 5 then 😅

[@J2js7argcj4ttx]

this is by far one of the best take on budget apple ecosystem videos ive watched in awhile. i myself have a similar ecosystem. iphone 11 pro - 360 (2 years ago), airpods 2 brand new (4 months ago) - 99 (amazon) ipad air 4 cellular (1 year ago), with pencil - 350, macbook air (>1 month ago) - 420. iCloud, Apple Music, subscriptions, accessories etc - ~100. for 1300 ive gotten some of the best valued apple products. I am however looking for a suitable Apple Watch to get, as I have been very serious about my health and fitness for awhile. i use the apple health app almost religiously, mostly manually tracking weight, vitamins, medication and water intake, I am looking for an Apple Watch that can track as much health data as possible whilst offering a good value for money. I am unsure which one to get. the deep integration between the iphone and apple watch is also quite compelling, especially when native apple apps such as the calendar and reminders quite often. Any tips or suggestions. As for batter health, I carry a charger/power bank with me most times, so wouldn’t mind charging it up every know and then. What Apple Watch would you recommend for a budget of 200 pounds.

[@zircoben]

Thank you so much, Nihal! That means a lot. I adore the 11 Pro, and I'm glad you have it - it's a gem, and its cameras are fantastic. The first iPhone cameras that I really think stepped outside of looking like a phone camera, if that makes sense. MacBook Air for 420 pounds? That's awesome - honestly for the Apple Watch, I would get the Apple Watch SE 2 - you can probably find one either new or almost new for 200 pounds. The only thing missing from it is the always on display, and if you need that, i'd try to get a Series 6. I'd definitely lean towards the SE 2 simply because of battery life - even if you are fine charging it, the SE 2 having a new battery and frankly, not having the Always On Display makes it last so much longer.

[@marsin23]

I've started my journey with 13 Mini. It's amazing piece of tech that doesn't have any shortcomings compared to iPhone 13 or 14 and I absolutely wanted the smaller design. From there it was a slippery slope... MacBook Air, AppleTV 4K... Now I'm circling around iPad Mini. Probably not gonna get AirPods and/or Apple Watch because I prefer elegance and analog watches.

[@zircoben]

I’m so glad to hear this! I adore the 13 mini and I’m glad it opened up your world to Apple products!

[@danielgartin-oh9ik]

Love the Apple ecosystem as for my ecosystem it consists of an iPhone SE second generation 128 GB a 2017 Intel MacBook Air 13 inch 256 GB a 256 GB iPad mini five in gold and the Apple Watch Series 6 40 mm space gray aluminum. I did go with third-party headphones because the AirPods were too expensive. I got my headphones for only $35 when I got my phone.

[@Tropical-]

My Apple ecosystem is IPhone 12, IPad Air 3, Apple Watch Series 6, AirPods Pro 2nd Generation, MacBook Pro M2 Pro. It’s good and works very well, only problem I have is my iPad is slightly slow and doesn’t Handel some games to well. Love the video

[@zircoben]

@Tropical- That’s a solid setup. The iPhone 12 is still surprisingly modern and capable right? And yeah, the A12 in your iPad is starting to get a little long in the tooth!

[@Tropical-]

@@zircoben yes iPhone 12 is working well especially since it got it in December 2021, so it’s battery won’t be as bad as the 2020 units, I will probably upgrade the iPad to the new air next year at some point

[@earthluma]

Mine is 12 mini, iMac 21.5 (2019) (main machine), MacBook Pro 13" (2015) (secondary machine). AirPods 2021, iPad Mini 4.

[@Tropical-]

@@earthluma that’s a nice setup, dose the 2015 MacBook Pro sill work well?

[@earthluma]

@@Tropical- Yeah it does, but i plan to reinstall El Capitan on it and sell it for a 2020 M1 Mac (still debating on the Air or Pro)

[@jeuascraps8148]

Honestly it sounds pretty minimalist but great vid

[@zircoben]

Thanks a lot! I do try to keep my digital life pretty simple!

[@19gerarcega]

Its nice to be in the apple ecosystem, started out with ipad, iphone then watch. I think I'll get a macbook once my pc died. Being in apple eco gives you peace of mind that your device is gonna be supported for a long time

[@zircoben]

Yes, it's great!

[@YoussefElankouri]

How can a man with such simple and useful content not be famous?

[@zircoben]

Thank you!! I hope to get there some day:)

[@ThePoliteKitten]

I absolutely love my talent for repairing devices. My apple ecosystem is, the iMac 21.5' 2014, iPhone X, iPad 3, Apple watch SE, MacBook pro late 2013 13'' & the macbook pro late 2012 13'. I got them for cheap PLUS WITH ORIGINAL BOXES & ACCESSORIES (magic keyboard, chargers, magic mouse, SuperDrive) as the sellers said the items were "broken". I just needed to reset & format the devices & that was it. I am the luckiest Apple iGuy alive!!

[@ArthurDessy]

Good for you!

[@zircoben]

That’s awesome!

[@ArthurDessy]

@@zircoben where a live, it’s a flex to have all of those.

[@BoggedBogdanoff]

I got my watch SE 2022 for only $100 on ebay, with 100% battery health. I'd totally recommend it. I got my m1 air ($400 and only had 2 battery cycles), 13 pro max $128gb ($440, screen had scratches that screen protector covered 87% battery health). Probably $1000 total after tax for me

[@zircoben]

Whoa, that's a killer setup, and great finds!! Honestly that's the better budget setup than mine. Thanks for the comment!

[@BoggedBogdanoff]

@@zircoben im considering some airpods, but I might wait on new ones to come out. Also, a tip for preserving battery longevity, use a 5w wired charger for overnight charging. It produces the least heat on the battery which is what hurts battery health. Wireless charging also produces a lot more heat and is less efficient than wired

[@zircoben]

@@BoggedBogdanoff Yes, I've heard that! I am addicted to the convenience of MagSafe - but I definitely need to do that.

[@FrankWhite95]

My system: iPhone 15 Pro, AW 7 Stainless Steel, iPad Pro M1, AirPods Pro 2. Gen, Apple TV 4k latest version and an iMac :) i love these devices!

[@zircoben]

@MotivationalShorts_682 That’s an awesome setup! I love the stainless watch in particular, as I mentioned briefly in the video, the sapphire display on the Stainless watches alone is worth it. 15 Pro and and iPad Pro M1 are baller. Thanks for sharing!

[@GreggyAck]

I've been using the Macbook Air M1 as my daily for years and absolutely cannot fault it. The battery is brilliant, the touch pad is brilliant, the screen is brilliant, the size and form factor are brilliant. If you need gaming power or you're editing tonnes of 4K video then it's not the best, but for daily productivity it's perfect in my opinion.

[@zircoben]

Love it! I totally agree, I don't see anything in the newer MacBook Airs that i'm missing out on? Totally content with the M1.

[@J2js7argcj4ttx]

i personally feel like this is a good starting point for most people entering the apple ecosystem, as you soon realise that its mostly the software experience you pay for. i would however prioritise display quality, as i see many people looking for ipad 9 refurbished/ second hand, when for a little bit extra the ipad air 4 comes in at an amazing value, much better than the current ipad 10, not to mention better screen, and apple pencil 2 support, faster usbc port and quality features that most consumers actually care about. i would argue the same for the pro series of iphones, usually recommending last years pro series over current regular series, especailly since the regular iphones hardly get any useful upgrades. better iphone displays and cameras from last gens pro's are more important than a chip upgrade for most people i would say, especially since the chips themselves are already powerful enough for everyday tasks. i am however on the fence about the aripods 2 and macbook air m1, and while they are some of the best valued and most used apple products, its older design does have some set backs, more so hardware wise. but for a budget, older apple devices are usually the best way to go forward.

[@zircoben]

I totally agree about the iPad Air 4 - the laminated display alone on those things is so much nicer - plus it just feels like 5 years more modern than the iPad 9. I disagree slightly with the Pro phones, I think overall battery health and a newer chip is preferable over the "Pro" features - for example, when people ask if they should buy an iPhone 13 for $350 or a 12 Pro for $330 or whatever, I will always tell them to get the 13. Newer phone, newer battery. The 14 Pro vs 15 is another story, as the 14 Pro gives you Always on display and ProMotion- but people always complained about the batteries on them. I dunno, it's hard to make recommendations but I usually prefer the more "basic" apple devices. Thanks a ton for the comments!

[@teamuniverse826]

I got a macbook pro 2017 with i7 16gb ram for 250, an iPhone 12 mini for like 350, a pair of Beats Studio buds, and an apple watch series 6. Honestly, for just school and light video editing, the MacBook still works perfect. In the future tho that's the next thing on my list to upgrade

[@scrollblau2262]

I'm actually planing to upgrade my old ecosystem in this month. - M1 iPad Air with Pencil & Keyboard from University - iPhone XS to iPhone 13 Pro - MacBook Air i5 2018 to MBP M1 - Nothing ANC TWS to Airpods Pro (just for the seamless integration & ANC) Haven't planned for Apple watch but should go for 6th-8th gen; new one, just for the battery.

[@goudendynamiethd2117]

Those are some nice upgrades. Let's go against consumerism together. What I do is I buy the newest model and use it for years until I need a new one. A MacBook I might use 6 years, an iPad 4 years, an iPhone and Apple Watch 3 years and AirPods until they no longer have enough battery life. So for example the iPad I am actually giving out 250 a year, a MacBook 350 a year, an iPhone 400 a year, an Apple Watch 100 a year and AirPods basically nothing because I just use until they break. Which means I give a little bit over 1100 a year for all of these products. I think that's really worth it.

[@scrollblau2262]

@@goudendynamiethd2117 That's a nice way to comprehend and budget for these tools. Thanks for this new perspective.

[@zircoben]

@scrollblau2262 The XS is a gem, and I bet you’ll miss the design of it! But the 13 Pro is an excellent choice. M1 MacBook Pro is an excellent upgrade too.

[@zircoben]

I like this perspective too! I’d still argue it’s cheaper to buy things once they’re a couple of years old, and then sell them after a couple of years of use; but I understand that not everyone wants to buy and sell things so often. I like your insight here!

[@whatispizza]

Whoa…this is really really smart. Especially for students or people on a budget.

[@zircoben]

Thank you! I hope that I can spread the word somehow about buying used tech. It's such a cheat code!

[@whatispizza]

@@zircoben while I’m grateful that I have pro versions of most of the items. I’m actually more impressed with the pragmatic resourcefulness of assembling a budget versions. For a decade and a half I’ve been buying refurbished and being crafty. It wasn’t until a few years ago before I started getting some nicer stuff.

[@Hhhh22222-w]

Applewatch and airbuds aren't necessary, either, just an iPhone, Macbook and MAYBE iPad.

[@misterman9816]

Most underrated is definitly the Apple TV.

[@zircoben]

I can agree with that! You can save a lot of money cutting out the AirPods , and the Apple Watch is not much more than a distraction unless you utilize the fitness aspects of it regularly

[@zircoben]

I’ve never had an Apple TV!

[@TexMackerson]

Watch and buds arent necessary but an iPad is??? When you already have a laptop????????

[@ArletteMalpica-kv6jr]

Great video! My apple ecosystem includes my iPhone 13 Pro, apple watch SE (2nd gen), M1 MacBook Air, iPad (9th gen) , my apple pencil (1st gen), and my AirPods Pro ( 2nd gen)! I think this is a great budget apple ecosystem especially for someone who is still attending uni such as myself!

[@zircoben]

That’s an awesome setup! Did anyone you know or any weird boyfriends of your siblings help out with those purchases? Thanks for the idea of this video, it’s going bonkers 🥹

[@ArthurDessy]

Bruh, you’re living the life!

[@factio11]

Holding your phone for a run, is the most insane thing i’ve ever heard 😂 Great video 👌

[@zircoben]

Lol, I know, gotta find a solution!

[@GarrettXPrime]

awesome a real person doing these very cool i have a iphone 12 pro max and it so far does a great job unfortunately i dropped it in a welding shop a while back and the back is cracked horrible but it keeps on keeping on

[@zircoben]

Oh snap; That’s too bad! At this point it’s probably not worth replacing the back :/ how much longer will you go with it?

[@GarrettXPrime]

@@zircoben well I have case over it which is doing it's best to keep it in line, but I'll prob go with a 15 or 14 after the 16 launch

[@zircoben]

@@GarrettXPrime sounds like a good plan! The used market really opens up for previous gen stuff a couple months after the release of the new iPhone.

[@GarrettXPrime]

@@zircoben agree!! i want one with dynamic island so ill poriobably go 14 pro max.

[@zircoben]

@@GarrettXPrime I like it! They're already getting pretty doable.

[@Juraiprince]

Great video! I love that series 5 Apple Watch! It would definitely be worth the $80 bucks to get the battery replaced and keep on rocking!

[@kurtz1993]

The MacBook Air M1 is soooo good for everyday use and even heavier tasks. I've had mine for 3 years now and do some music production nd light video editing and it handles it very good. It can even handle my web development workflow with no issues. Personally, I got rid of the Apple Watch as I don't need its features and got back to an analog watch just for telling me the time :P Great video, man

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton, man! I love the M1 Air, it's even more computer than I could ask for! I agree about the Apple Watch, I'm increasingly wondering how worth it it actually is to fight with the poor battery life on this thing. Thanks for checking out the video!

[@joshuaduca5527]

the experience on apple is totally different the simplicity and the versatility of product is great its aesthetic and minimal

[@zircoben]

Yes, exactly!

[@jamiekirrage]

Really interested video! You got a bargain on the Macbook Air for sure, especially since you´re capable of fixing the ports. The Macbook Air M1 is still an incredible device, the 13 mini is too but the battery drains so fast for me.. especially once your battery health starts to go down. The normal airpods 2 are fine but personally I enjoy the noise cancellation and transparency mode so much. For me Airpods Pro 2 are incredible. The 13 mini + Macbook Air you got for great deals and are light, portable and very good entrance to the ecosystem! The Apple watch and Airpods because of the battery problems you mentioned wasnt worth it for you. But overall not bad! Subscribed

[@zircoben]

Thank you, that means a lot! The 13 mini is amazing, as long as you’re fine with the battery life on it, and most people aren’t! I think a more “smart” budget ecosystem would skip the AirPods and get some cheaper earbuds, and probably ditch the old Apple Watch. Thank you for checking out the video!

[@mcbchannel7173]

for starter i’d skip the apple watch and the airpods and buy ipad. i use the sidecar feature a lot that enable to extend my macbook screen to the ipad wirelessly and effortlessly. but as for my setup rn i’m using 2018 i7 13” macbook pro, 7th gen ipad, iphone 12, 44mm 2015 apple watch, and the first gen airpods pro. been rocking all of those from brand new until this specific second in the 2024. anyway as i’m from indonesia, it’s impossible to get a full setup like you did for 800 bucks, apple things are really expensive here compared to the usa because of the crazy tax

[@minhyuklees1bebe902]

i have a macbook air m1 which i bought in 2021, an iphone 11 i bought in 2022, and an ipad 9 gifted to me by my mom just last week. will upgrade to a newer iphone this year though i'm still undecided.

[@zircoben]

That’s a solid setup! The iPhone 11 is surprisingly decent still, and the battery really lasts on those. I have a soft spot for the iPad 9 too; they get the job done and are super affordable!

[@techzixxy729]

My ecosystem: 13inch MacBook Air M2 iPhone 13 Apple watch series 3 (yeah i still wear it) AirPods pro 2nd gen

[@Sunshineandroses1]

Yeah, I agree on the wedge shape design. It's the best design for the air. It should never have changed in my opinion

[@zircoben]

100%

[@RetroWolf13]

I have the exact same setup minus the watch I just don’t get along with smart watches lol great video

[@RetroWolf13]

I replaced the watch for an iPad mini 6

[@zircoben]

Oh wow, good move! I am considering getting rid of my watch too, low key. Battery sucks and I don’t really need it? Great call with the iPad mini!

[@RetroWolf13]

@@zircoben honestly not gonna lie I loved my Apple Watch Series 7 but the battery sucked so thinking of getting a garmin they last up to a month , your video inspired me to make a video similar to yours just in the middle of the editing phase now. Thank you so much for the inspiration and also a great channel and I will definitely be subscribing and can’t wait to watch more of your content.

[@seanyzay]

I have the apple watch series 3 (got a few days after it first came out) and I've worn it on and off, prob about 50-60% of each year on average, and still somehow have 93% battery health. Don't recomend this watch to new buyers because it's pretty slow in a lot of things, but for what I use it for ; work out, timer, alarms, and notifications without having to use my phone, it's pretty damn great.

[@cxyi]

My apple ecosystem: iPhone 13 Pro Apple Watch Series 9, Airpods pro 2nd Generation, Macbook (2021 release with the touch bar) Besides my iPhone I got everything else on sale

[@zircoben]

@czgu I just bought the same MacBook Pro today! 16GB and 512GB, and I’m pumped. How has it been treating you?

[@pablopinheiro01]

Brazil has a high cost with this simple ecosystem that you showed us ! In Brazil I need more or less 14 thousand reais to buy all peaces, min salary in here is more or less 1.4 thousand reais, Brazilians need work 10 months (more or less) to make this setup, If you want to transform this value in dollars, Brazilians pay 2.5k dols for the same pieces.

[@zircoben]

Even when you shop the used market? That’s wild :/

[@Jupiter-shorts_]

Come to the USA and get them

[@jnjjjb609]

Great video please make more.

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton!

[@dylanfreeman2593]

Missing the iPad mini 6 and be perfect

[@wasdplayer]

No need, since there is Macbook Air or iPhone

[@zircoben]

I do want a Mini iPad! My cousin swears by them!

[@yea.whtvr1]

Great video! My setup includes an iPhone 15, iPad pro-12.9, Mac book air M1, Mac mini M1, Air pod 1st gen. and my old iPhone 12 as my alarm clock/mp3 player. Overkill yes! Just missing an apple watch but I never really needed one.

[@zircoben]

Love the setup! Did you get anythign new with the holidays?

[@dylanbacon4039]

I hate MacOS with a passion but getting a modern macbook for $200-300 is a pretty good deal when you consider the fact that a midrange windows laptop is $500+. I personally have an apple watch series 8, airpod pro 2 and iphone 14. About $1700 with tax but stuff that'll last you a few years as long as you take care of it. When it comes to apple make sure the devices have new batteries. Replacing batteries on apple products cost an insane amount unless you can DIY.

[@evan]

The flex at 0:20 of having a £150 charger for your iPhone/watch/pods

[@zircoben]

To be fair, those are on eBay for $40 used! That’s how I got mine

[@awanen]

he has everything I'm currently using. I bought everything used as well but 2-3 years ago so it wasn't as cheap.

[@zircoben]

That's awesome!! What's the next thing you will swithc out?

[@lahawtho]

Love to see this. The only reason I want more is to have the latest software upgrades and security features. Love fingerprint ID on my Mac. I lock it all the time for security and just use fingerprint to unlock. And having the latest software to do security keys. And iCloud full encryption on all items. And Wi-Fi 6 increased security. Etc.

[@daveforz]

My setup goes as: 2023 M2 Macbook Pro ($2200) + my iPhone Mini 12 ($200 used). For my smartwatch, I have a Garmin running watch + $20 sound core bluetooth earbuds. I'm prone to losing things so cheap earbuds for me. Also used to have a MacBook Air, but it was too slow for what I was trying to use it for. 8GB of ram wasn't enough to handle adobe applications.

[@iyajavate]

hi! what specs do you recommend for someone who uses adobe?

[@leatherwiz]

Great content. I will look into your suggestions and check current markets in Germany. So far when checking the marketplace in Germany I can’t find a MacBook Air m1 which is ok for less than 500-600€, the Apple Watch 5 isn’t supported any more and with the Air Pods I had a bad experience with the gen 1, they did not connect any more to the iPhone.The iPhone 13 seems a good deal but I heard from other KZbinrs that the 11 pro is a very good option because of the oled display. Any way keep this content coming.

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton! I know, for the international audience this video is a bit harder to digest because of the inherent higher resale value out there - I also didn't realize until after this video that the Apple Watch series 5 was at the end of support - if i could go back I'd recommend one of the Apple Watch SEs instead. The 13 also has an OLED display, and I'd definitely recommend it over the 11 Pro - the A15 chip is noticeably stronger than the A13 in the 11 Pro and you get a lot of quality of life improvements like MagSafe, 5G, and better battery life, along with more software updates! The 11 Pro only has probably a year more.

[@leatherwiz]

@ I think that the 11 pro will get another two years of updates because it is a pro model, at least that’s what I heard and read. At the end of the day only Apple knows. However I agree the A15 is much better than the A13. In Germany these are selling for around 200€. I use a SE 2 with the A13 and am still happy. The problem is in my opinion the limited ram. I checked the data and the iPhone 13 definitely has a OLED display. That makes it really a good offer. The 13 sells for around 300€. I just checked my iPhone 6s and it just recently got a security update. That’s not bad for a 9 year old phone. It still feels snappy and I think about giving it to my mum to try.

[@jaedo71]

I suspect Apple will come out with rollable screen phones soon...I will definitely get one of those

[@zircoben]

Let's see!

[@needleontherecord]

I’m running second hand M1 Mac Minis for work and study. They can do 90% of what a current high end Mac can do and have never slowed down for video and rendering. Yeah not the best but they do the job, were cost effective plus I had screens, keyboards and mice left over from lockdowns to use.

[@zircoben]

I had an M1 Mac Mini for a bit! I love them, they’re so dang fast and don’t really slow down, plus they’re getting really cheap!

[@Muhoslav]

Great video! Keep going, bro! My ecosystem is a bit unique. I actually mixed two ecosystems together: For laptop I use MacBook Air M2 with 15 inch screen and I have AirPods Pro 2 USBC version. And as my phone I use the Galaxy S23 with Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 and it's because I just can't stand the iOS. But luckily, it works with my MacBook, with usb-C cable I can transfer all my photos and videos to MacBook and edit them to social media.

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton bro! I love how you mixed the ecosystems - do you ever consider leaning more into the Samsung side? The MacBook Air 15” is a great machine and I’ve been thinking about getting one!

[@star1-252]

I use a iPhone 11 (that I need to upgrade), a iPad Pro m2 I think? A MacBook Pro M2 Max, AirPods Pro 2, and iMac Pro 2017. I don’t use Apple Watch.

[@zircoben]

That’s a really solid setup! The iPhone 11 is definitely the weakest link there, but still a really solid phone.

[@star1-252]

@@zircoben yea it’s starting to show its age already replaced the battery once may need to do it again. That’s when I’ll get the 15 pro or something.

[@GrimKaizer808]

Great video. Goes to show that you don't always have to get the newest devices in order to get a premium experience.

[@zircoben]

Exactly!

[@MariiaPiskunova]

My ecosystem includes 15 pro, macbook pro m1 and an apple watch se 2, i am fine without AOD on the smartwatch ))

[@zircoben]

That’s a solid setup! The Watch SE 2 is a great choice, I bet the battery is excellent on it too!

[@Mariemass10]

Great! I have ip 15 exchanging my old one in mint condition, MacBook Air m1 refurbished for 700 euros on back market, cheaper cause I took qwerty instead of azerty as I’m using both. AW 4 😂 still works great! iPad 10th gen for less than 300 and AirPods Pro. Old ones broke but kept them really long!

[@zircoben]

Awesome!! This is a great setup, and you'll be set for awhile!!

[@MK-Turtles]

It also depends on where you live. Normally, other countries are much more expensive than in the United States.

[@zircoben]

Oh, for sure... this $800 setup is impossible in most of the world.

[@Mousymusic]

I got iPhone 15 (Unboxed fresh not brand new)for 850$ Speechless 😅

[@zircoben]

Not bad though!! How are you liking it?

[@Kharshnv]

My ecosystem involves the 13 Pro. Airpods Pro 2nd gen, 9th gen ipad and Apple watch SE 2

[@zircoben]

@Kharshnv That’s a super solid setup! The Watch SE 2 is an awesome choice, battery probably lasts double or triple my Series 5, and you’ll be set with the 13 Pro for a few years. Boss phone

[@omerbig]

hey bro, nice video concept. next time i think you should add some background music it will make the video go smoother.

[@zircoben]

That's a good thought! Thanks for the feedback.

[@gg7k3]

here in brazil a m1 mac would not be less than 1200 USD, crazy difference in values

[@zircoben]

That's crazy!

[@dardo23]

iphone 13 mini is such a underrated phone, i have chosen it over 15 pro

[@zircoben]

I totally agree!! Especially from someone who is trying to be a digital minimalist - the 13 mini is a gem.

[@alanlee2751]

Nice bundle. You clearly have a great eye for a bargain.

[@zircoben]

Thank you!!

[@stevenhocking6407]

I'm surprised they haven't made Apple tv's yet

[@Ami_Par]

Brother I loved the video. I really like this concept as well. I'm actually searching for the same. Thank you so much. I really appreciate the effort you are putting. But there's one request. Please upgrade your audio. It's very muffle sounding. Keep posting. All The best

[@zircoben]

Thanks a ton bro! I have heard that feedback on the audio, and I’ll be working on it. Thank you for the comment and for checking out the video!

[@Ami_Par]

@@zircoben We need people who are constantly explaining others that they can do more in less money. It's a really nice concept. Lot's of love brother. Keep growing. All the best

[@zircoben]

@@Ami_Par Thanks a ton man! That's exactly what I'm trying to do. Really appreciate you checking out the video and leaving the comment!

[@Kineon_]

really shows how little innovation there has been the last few years. at least for a normal pleb like me. i would easily be able to use the setup you're rocking. the only thing that annoys me with old apple devices is the lightning - usb-c difference

[@zircoben]

Absolutely agreed! As long as you have good enough battery life; the iPhones of the last 3-4, even 5 years honestly are all good enough where it counts! I’m still I’m the stage where I don’t mind Lightning much, but I definitely would prefer uSB-C!

[@sirhide-x5y]

interesting idea however building an apple ecosystem is not that expensive it may just take time , but prices especially in the use are ok

[@Cre4tor.]

Echosystem for 800? The macbook alone is more than 800€ wtf

[@zircoben]

I’ve been on eBay in Europe and they’re not that expensive. I buy my technology used, that’s the message of the video.

[@TommyEgan101]

Price for new 800

[@thatbwoysammyj]

A Used M1 Macbook Air isn't €800 😂

[@Gamer_85]

Just got the series 5 watch with 92% battery for £170 and lasts all day, so I’d take this advice with a pinch of salt. His said 67% which is shocking so just buy one with better battery health

[@zircoben]

Good find! I imagine the battery was replaced on it, or it was unused for several years. I'd say that is the exception, and not the norm, if you're buying one on the used market.

[@skyabdig4893]

genius... and the beauty about this is you don't look cheap in Apple Ecosystem itself 😊

[@zircoben]

Exactly!

[@tscottw5215]

I would check I fix it and see if you are willing to replace the battery in the apple watch

[@zircoben]

I just watched a video on it- looks like a bit of a pain? But may be worth it!

[@hairsandwiches]

I just bought my new MacBook, a 2015 MacBook Pro. To match my iPhone 12 and gen 2 Apple Watch 😊 I will keep these until they no longer physically work (I don’t care about support).

[@zircoben]

Oh, awesome! Have you tried OpenCore on the 2015 Pro?

[@Shugoist]

what a nice price for the 13 mini ;) here in Germany it would cost between 350-500€ Im still searching for a good one to replace the 12mini of my wife

[@zircoben]

Dang, That’s insane 😮‍💨

[@VarmanGunak]

Very, very impressed!

[@zircoben]

Thank you!

[@Youtobedo]

I did iPhone 11 New for $99 AirPods 2 for $79 Apple Watch SE new $210 and iPad 10th gen new $299.. $679 for all new apple products that have a one year warranty. I did it 3 months ago and I wouldn’t know what I’m missing out on when it comes to more expensive apple stuff nor do I care. I do have an awful lot of money saved by doing it this way.

[@zircoben]

Wow, That’s a killer setup! All new devices?! I love it!

[@nathanielseanjohnny6986]

My ecosystem includes iPhone 15, MacBook Air (M1), iPad (8th Gen), Apple Watch Series 3, & Beats Fit Pro. I wish to upgrade to a more recent Apple Watch soon 😅

[@zircoben]

That's a great setup! How is the iPad 8 doing?

[@marleywatchesyt7876]

College setup rn: Ipad 9 w/ pencil, iphone 11, airpods 1

[@zircoben]

That's awesome! No macbook?

[@vhlll]

great video, mate! But its so sad for me living in Brazil... I made a research for the same products here and I would spend R$9100,00( something around 1700 dolars) to do it :(

[@zircoben]

Dang, that’s a lot of:( sorry man!

[@tanggualnam5931]

How do you find such low prices? Been looking for a phone and can’t find the prices you have.

[@zircoben]

I look on eBay and usually make saved searches which can notify me if a listing comes up with my criteria and price range. I also buy “risky” auctions and listings a lot of the time, with the understanding that I might have to work with eBay to get my money back if the item never arrives, is damaged, etc.

[@AmalSatheesh]

This might be the cheapest apple ecosystem in 2024, cost will be varied according to place. Mostly people who sell MacBooks are 128gb or 256gb storage. This matters when it comes to work. But nice video and informative for those are new and want a decent ecosystem.

[@zircoben]

Thank you! I definitely realize that the prices I got my things for is pretty below average, especially on the global stage. But I think overall my purchases represent a good setup for most people on a budget! Thanks for the comment!

[@Th33Vultur3]

Even though bad battery life, I have the Apple Watch 5 for 4 years, IPad 12.9 from 2020 with 256 GB, AirPods Gen 2 and the only thing I have still with Lightning and lastly the IPhone 15 Pro with 128 GB.

[@zircoben]

I love it! I am still happy with the Apple Watch Series 5 for everything except for the battery life. Is the 12.9 iPad your only computer?

[@dave_eke]

Pls can you drop the link to where we can purchase this products?

[@zircoben]

I got a bit lucky with what I have and the prices I found, but a search on eBay for the MacBook, the Apple Watch, and the iPhone would do the trick! The AirPods are on Amazon now for just $79!

[@Cursy0501]

My current setup is an IPad Air M2 and an IPhone 15 Pro. I’m quite new to the ecosystem apart 10 years since my 2014 MacBook Air died because of missing charger brick. I’m quite on the wrong spot when entering the ecosystem, most likely lack of research and buyer remorses of panic buys due to M2 being same as 10th gen (as a student). And the 15 Pro had issues of overheating when scrolling instagram which catches on battery anxiety. My next target was supposed to be getting the AirPods Pro 2 Gen, but I ditched out and waited for the this year Pro 3 Gen instead. Any suggestions on the AirPods?

[@WaywardPondering]

I was happy using my aging iPhone 8 until it lost Apple support. But a coworker took pity on me and sold me his old iPhone 11 Pro. I’m slow to upgrade my Apple devices but certainly won’t pass up a good deal on something better.

[@zircoben]

Awesome, the 11 Pro is such a beast! I still admire the pictures I took with that phone when I had it. The 8 probably had really bad battery life too

[@SimbaandSpot]

i have mba m1, airpods 3rd gen, iphone 13, ipad air m1 so far so good. i slowly bought these things per year. first my mba then my ipad air with pen, the airpods and now my iphone 13. i like the idea of being part of an ecosystem but i do not think i should have bought my iphone as I can still use my mba, ipad air and airpods without my iphone 13. My iphone 13 is my first iphone, so just do not think that buying an expensive phone despite this is the midrange phone of iphone today. i can still enjoy the apple ecosystem without the phone. Just my opinion though.

[@zircoben]

This is a really good setup! Probably didn't cost a TON more than what I have, but those are all devices that will last you quite a bit longer.

[@Brianmuchiri]

tim cook is so pissed right now lol

[@zircoben]

lol, That’s the goal 😂

[@mazenyasser7208]

The iPhone 13 mini here costs around 600$ alone. I'm in Egypt.

[@zircoben]

Dang- that sucks! How much is an M1 MacBook?

[@toxo_wb]

I love the fact that you can carry your phone, but it's not safe to do so while you're running. Do look into it.

[@zircoben]

I will! Thanks

[@RicFlairSucks85]

The M1 Macbook Air is seriously the KING of super functional, fast, and great laptops. It's the most budget thing of all my Apple products in my ecosystem haha. My Phone costs 2.5x more than my computer lol (iPhone 15 Pro Max 512GB), and my Apple Watch Ultra 2 even costs more than the Macbook I use currently haha. I'd upgrade, I just don't have a real reason to...I don't play anything a 2005 computer couldn't run, I don't edit videos or do anything power-intensive. And even though I do sound mixing, this computer works perfectly fine for that with my Focusrite interface and 2 Alesis monitors (mixing 'speakers' for those who aren't audiophiles). I don't know bud, I have to have Airpod Pro 2's...I still have maintained my perfect pitch from when I actually played semi-professionally, so I can tell a huge difference between Pro 2's and the other Airpods. I had Max's but sold them because I have headphones for mastering that Apple, unfortunately, is not in the market of making (Sennheiser all the way baby!)...but I'm not a fan of Sennheiser in-ear headphones at all unless I was playing live still and wanted to hear everything super clearly/don't want my eardrums destroyed by the clashing of cymbals next to me. I loathe extremely high-frequency crash cymbals that start at 12khz and then go ABOVE 20khz lol, they're the bane of my existence. Something about sound waves above 18khz in general (obviously not in actual combined instrumentation) just drives me up the walls.

[@zircoben]

I'm in the same boat! I keep eyeing nicer laptops but the M1 Air is doing everything I need it to and it does it so well! So why bother? Interesting thought on the AirPods Pro 2s, they really are worth it for the sound quality? Thanks for checking out the vid! :)

[@TheMidwestRetro]

My eco system is three things. iPhone 15 pro Air pods pro 2nd gen And Apple Watch SE. I like windows more than Mac OS so I use a gaming laptop for travel and a gaming desktop for heavy workloads. I’ve thought about getting an iPad with an Apple Pencil to add to my eco system.

[@zircoben]

Ooh, that's an awesome little setup! How do you like Windows Phone Link with the iPhone?

[@TheMidwestRetro]

@@zircoben to my surprise today I learned that there is a such thing as that, I’ve never heard about it but now I’m intrigued!

[@zircoben]

@@TheMidwestRetro Oh, you'll have to check it out! You can run the latest OS on it. Definitely be warned that the laptop will slow down a bit, but it's nice to have the newest software.

[@superjet1007]

Only possible in the US, since in my region nowadays Macbook air m1 alone costs 800$

[@zircoben]

To be fair to me; I got the items in poor condition and had to repair the MacBook. Realistically I probably shouldn’t advertise it as $800 since nobody can realistically go out and buy these things at these prices, even in the states. Bad planning on my part

[@21vancs7]

My setup carrying me in uni is: Iphone 15 plus and ipad air m2

[@zircoben]

That’s a solid setup! No MacBook then for uni?

[@giiuseppemanentee]

iPhone 11 Pro Max ( I’m going to buy IPhone 15 next month ), AirPods Pro second generation , IPad 10 generation and MacBook Air m3 13 inch .

[@zircoben]

That's an awesome setup! The 11 Pro Max is a beast, and I bet you'll miss the stainless steel and curved body of it.

[@ibrahimvlogs2480]

where are you buying all of these items? i can't find such cheap prices

[@zircoben]

I buy poor condition items on eBay and usually hunt for auctions

[@spongebrezzy123]

My setup- iPhone 15 plus,iPad air m2 and Apple Watch Ultra 2

[@supreeth1729]

Where’d you buy an iPhone 13 mini for 240bucks. Can you link it if possible?

[@zircoben]

I use eBay! I am on At&T, and AT&T locked phones are always cheaper than unlocked models. What carrier do you use?

[@yhanminimalist972]

I want the M1 macbook air and use if for work but it's $600+ here in the phillippines.

[@zircoben]

Dang - what did you end up getting?

[@yhanminimalist972]

I got the Macbook Pro 2017 because it's cheaper.

[@zircoben]

@@yhanminimalist972 oh good!! How has it been for you?

[@yhanminimalist972]

@@zircoben Just enough for light work. Browsing and gmails and office work. I just need to take care of it.

[@zircoben]

@@yhanminimalist972 Glad to hear it! I hope it takes good care of you.

[@alexandrumacovei7174]

In my country only the macbook with the m1 is 700€ with discounts and all

[@zircoben]

Even on the secondhand market, like Facebook marketplace?

[@DavidOlivarez08]

im using iPhone 14 pro max, Apple Watch 5, air pod pros 1st gen and a 2013 MacBook Air running open core on latest Sonoma and does everything I need it to do. ill update to m1 when I can no longer update my 2013 MacBook Air lol

[@zircoben]

That’s awesome - I love what you’re doing with the 2013 Air! How does it perform on Sonoma?

[@DavidOlivarez08]

@@zircoben perfect opencore is very optimized now makes updating so easy. It’s not super fast by any means or powerful but also not slow. the tasks I do are not demanding at all mostly web browsing and emailing

[@zircoben]

@@DavidOlivarez08 That's awesome! I'm glad it's doing the job for you. I need to buy an older mac and give it a shot.

[@Superrstuff]

Where did you buy the macbbok? And the rest of the tech?

[@zircoben]

I buy everything on eBay, looking for the cheapest listings. I usually buy in poor condition and get devices with minor issues (not paid off, poor battery health, etc.)

[@Trevor274]

I have the iPhone 13 mini as well as a series 3 watch. The watch was gifted to me around 1.5 years ago and it was still in the box unopened. The battery last all day.

[@zircoben]

Wow, That’s awesome. And you’re really not missing out on much with a Series3 watch, it does everything you need it to?

[@Trevor274]

@@zircoben I suppose it does, but I'm disappointed with the delay of syncing with my iPhone. This is mostly an Apple thing though; but I wish they'd put more effort into health widgets for the iPhone, or a dedicated steps complication on the watch. I've downloaded Duffy and added the complication to the watch, but it relies on your iPhone health app, so it's not syncing steps as timely as the watch does. I'll probably switch to another watch soon because steps is the most important thing to me.

[@user-yy9mi8nz5c]

My setup:Iphone 14 pro max,Airpods pro 2 and the Ipad pro 2020 version

[@zircoben]

Love it!