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Hey there – if you have a macbook then you can definitely just into your mac and use GarageBand or any other software to get different tones. And you can listen either through headphones or you can get nice speakers. In order to do that you need an interface – the most popular one is the Focusrite 2i2 https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Scar2i2G4–focusrite-scarlett-2i2-4th-gen-usb-audio-interface but you can fine less expensive alternatives. The 2i2 is nice because you can input 2 instruments/mics at the same time and have them show up on your computer as different audio inputs.
Another option is to get something like the Fender Mustang Micro which is a headphone/practice amp and modeler that lets you get a bunch of different tones via an app: https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MustMicro–fender-mustang-micro-headphone-amp
Another great option if you want to have a good speaker is something like the Positive Grid Spark 2 modeling amp which has a bunch of modeling capabilities and a big nice sounding speaker: https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PGSpark2–positive-grid-spark-2-50-watt-2-by-4-inch-combo-amp-black
I think starting with modelers is a great way to learn what different types of pedals do and how they work before investing money and floor space. The only real pedal I have is a Boss Looper and then I also have a positive grid spark 2 for when I play electric and it’s been great/
Hope this helps!