In 2020, Apple marked a significant transition in its MacBook range by announcing a shift from the Intel chips it had utilized since 2006 to introduce Macs with the Apple-designed M1 chip. Fast forward to 2024, and the company now offers a choice of 14 custom processors, with the latest being the M4 lineup powering the newest MacBook Pro models.
Similar to Apple’s iPhones, the M-line chips are built on the ARM architecture, granting Apple greater control over its hardware and software. These processors enhance the performance and energy efficiency of Apple laptops, resulting in significantly improved performance and battery life. Additionally, users benefit from the ability to run mobile apps originally developed for iOS. Despite these advancements, selecting the right MacBook remains a challenging decision. Here is a guide on what new buyers should consider when investing in a MacBook.
This report was updated in November 2024 to include details on the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models and the new M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.
Overview of Apple’s M-Series Chips
Apple’s processors are distributed across various MacBook models, making it difficult to find a MacBook with chips older than the M2 series. Interested buyers might wonder how older chips compare with newer options. Here is a breakdown of the differences among each series.
M1 Series:
M1: Debuted custom silicon for MacBook Air in 2020 with an 8-core CPU and up to an 8-core GPU. Initially supported up to 16 GB of memory, though now generally available with 8 GB. It offers superior speed compared to Intel-powered MacBooks and is suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming.
M1 Pro: Features up to 10 CPU cores and a 16-core GPU, with up to 32 GB of unified memory. It offers twice the performance and graphics capability of the base M1, fitting for intensive tasks such as music production and video editing.
M1 Max: Similar to M1 Pro in CPU but with a stronger 32-core GPU supporting up to 64 GB of memory. It excels in tasks requiring high graphic demands like 8K video editing and 3D rendering.
- M1 Ultra: Composed of two M1 Max chips with a 20-core CPU and 64-core GPU that can be configured with up to 128 GB of memory. It remains powerful and is suitable for demanding visuals and graphics work.
M2 Series:
M2: This entry-level chip performs slightly better than the M1, featuring an 8-core CPU and up to a 10-core GPU. It is ideal for daily tasks but less suited for 4K video editing or 3D rendering jobs requiring the M1 Pro or Max.
M2 Pro: Offers up to 12 CPU cores and a 19-core GPU with notable upgrades in performance and graphics speed. Designed for intermediate editing tasks, the chip is the best choice for those wanting a future-proof processor.
M2 Max: Features up to a 12-core CPU and a 38-core GPU with capabilities suited for graphics-intensive work, though similar to its predecessor, its upgrade is only incremental.
- M2 Ultra: The most powerful chip, even surpassing the latest M4 Max. It is available in the second-generation Mac Studio and Mac Pro, suitable for extremely demanding content tasks.
M3 Series:
M3: Found in various models; it includes an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, showing significant speed improvements over the M1 and M2 models. It handles basic tasks efficiently and supports external displays effectively.
M3 Pro: Equipped with a 12-core CPU and an 18-core GPU, it yields better performance compared to previous series while being ideal for users with intermediate hardware needs.
- M3 Max: Offers a 16-core CPU and a 40-core GPU with substantial performance enhancements but is outmatched by the M2 Ultra.
M4 Series:
M4: Features a 10-core CPU and GPU with performance improvements over the M1, including faster neural engine capabilities beneficial for Apple’s AI suite. Suitable for new MacBook Pro and iMac models.
M4 Pro: Provides a 14-core CPU and a 20-core GPU, designed with second-generation technology supporting advanced rendering capabilities including mesh shading and ray tracing.
- M4 Max: The peak of power in MacBook Pros with a 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU, supporting demanding creative tasks, though not as powerful as the M2 Ultra available in specific Mac Studio configurations.
Apple Intelligence and Its Mac Support
The latest macOS Sequoia includes Apple’s AI capabilities, available on iOS and iPadOS 18, but solely for Macs with M-series chips. Supported Macs include the MacBook Air (M1, M2, M3), MacBook Pro (various M1 – M4 editions), iMac (M1, M3, M4), Mac Mini (M1, M2, M4), and Mac Studio (M1 Max – M2 Ultra).
Protecting MacBooks and Education Discounts
Given the high cost of Apple devices and potential damages, AppleCare+ is recommended for warranty extension and accidental damage coverage. Additionally, students and educators can access discounts for Apple products through the Education Store without immediate proof requirements, though verification may be requested later.
Purchasing Recommendations for MacBooks
Apple recently launched updated MacBook Pro models with M4 chips, while the current MacBook Air models remain excellent choices even before anticipated updates. Below are recommended models fitting various needs:
Best for Most: The 13-inch MacBook Air with M3 offers solid performance and maintains traditional design choices, making it suitable for everyday tasks.
For Larger Screens: The 15-inch MacBook Air provides a larger display with well-rounded features without needing the higher-priced Pro versions.
For Ports and Power: The latest 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models with M4 chips offer enhanced specifications, particularly for professional users demanding high-performance computing.
Economical Choice: The 2020 MacBook Air with the M1 chip remains a viable, powerful option for basic tasks at a reduced cost.
- Other Notable Options: Various slightly older models, including M2-powered 13-inch MacBook Airs and 2021/2023 MacBook Pro models, are still worth considering, depending on pricing and availability from third-party retailers.
Overall, prospective buyers should consider M-series MacBooks for better performance and compatibility with latest features while older Intel models are increasingly outdated and less advisable.
