[mkasu]

Isn't a battery replacement just $199, anyway? Might have been the cheaper alternative even without the recall.

I had a similar decision a few weeks ago (contemplating whether to go from a 2014 15" MacBook to a 2019 model because of a faulty battery and touchpad.)

I went to the Genius Bar, they replaced the top-case including the battery, a new keyboard, and a new touchpad, for $199. They also replaced the display for free while they were at it (relating to coating issues,) so I virtually got a new MacBook (from the outside) for $199.