My other option is to upgrade my RAM from 4gb to 16gb. I could consider a recent Macbook Air or Macbook (if they were capable of excelling with the load usage outlined). I'd seriously consider it if it was clearly the best option though. My situation is that I could stretch myself to get the new lowest spec Macbook Pro 13/14 when it is released (or really stretch myself for higher spec), but it's not the ideal option in the current environment (I am reluctant to go for lowest spec as well). Finally, I intend connecting to large external monitor at times (charts, music). I have to type a lot with study, so reluctant to use the questionable keyboards. I also study online, so have to listen/watch lectures online, while using other programs to take notes etc.

I also use it for various programs with study - Word, PowerPoint, MindNode, OneNote et al, and will often have them all open at the same time. The iPad Pro is ok for the music, but feel more comfortable using a Mac for files etc. iPad Pro can do most of what I need for photography, but I have a Squarespace website that I need to use the Mac for which involves a lot of photos being downloaded, shifted around etc. I use it for some photography as well, and it slows down. With VirtualDJ, it was suffering in the same way. I would like to use it for music recording but it was unable to handle my Scarlett Solo Audio Interface - when using the audio interface, the audio would sound like a CD skipping (when playing my guitar with different effects, playback etc). I have a platform with live stock charts that are continuously running (~5 charts) and it's quite important that these are not lagging. When browsing (Chrome), I often have 35+ tabs open (plus Safari for University studies).

Touch pad still malfunctions (moves sideways without touch), but I prefer an external mouse anyway, so not a big deal. At the same time, I replaced the battery and the touch pad. I upgraded some components a couple of years ago so I currently have a 256GB SSD with 4GB Ram, running High Sierra 10.13.6. Bear with with me, as I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to tech/computers (my model is good for the 16gb upgrade). I'm considering upgrading my mid-2010 MacBook Pro from 4gb RAM to 16gb RAM.

Macbook pro 2010 memory upgrade 8gb