Old MacBook advice

[Gsam]

Hello!
I would like to buy a MacBook but I don’t know what MacBook to choose...
I’ll use the laptop only for browsing, MS Office, watching movies, light C++ programming and mainly for college tasks.
I really want to buy a MacBook Air because I love the design. I know that this machine is not very powerful but I’m wondering if it will handle these tasks smoothly.
I’m also considering buying a MacBook Pro but the models newer than 2014 are a bit pricey.
I’m also concerned about the screen. Will 13” be enough?
So, is a MacBook Pro/Air from 2013-2014 still useable in 2018 and 3-4 more years? (I am looking for used Macbooks because my budget is limited)
Thank you very much!!
*Sorry for my bad english, english is not my native language*

 

[Willo34]

MacBook Air is fine for your requirements.
Take the 2014 model is my recommendation. Good machine.

 

[Audit13]

The 13" Air from 2013 to 2017 are basically identical machines with two differences:

1. early 2015 to 2017 models use Intel HD6000 instead of HD5000 graphics; and
2. mid-2013 to 2014 models use an Intel Haswell CPU while early 2015 to 2017 use Broadwell processors.

All internal components from the 13" mid-2013 to 2017 and completely interchangeable.

 

[PBG4 Dude]

I have nothing but praise for the MacBook Air line. My 2010 and 2012 MBAs still work today and the 2012 is being used as a daily driver for schoolwork (MS Office, Citrix Receiver, Chrome, and regular surfing). They are sturdy workhorses that just keep plugging along.

An added bonus; they are incredibly affordable.

 

[Audit13]

I'm using an early 2015 13" (liquid-damaged unit from Craigslist purchased for a few bucks) for my daily computing needs and love it.

You see lots of negative rants for the Air on other forums but, personally,I don't really care.

 

[Gsam]

Thank you very much! After all these opinion, I think I’ll choose Air. But what about the screen size? Is 13” enough?

 

[Audit13]

I think 13" is enough. Going any bigger means moving to a MBP 15" and they have their own issues according to other Macrumors.com members.