Thanks for the great advice. Eventually that's what I did, maxed out the RAM to 16GB and upgraded the SSD to 256GB and compromised on the 13" screen size. Apple Live Chat person said try this and see how you feel and if not then upgrade to 15" and I thought that kind of make sense. I hope I find 13" comfortable; otherwise I have to shell out another $500 for the 15" similar spec.