5 Things To Consider Before Purchasing a New MacBook Pro
MACBOOK PRO – You should become aware of five important pieces of information before making a new MacBook Pro purchase.
Apple has just introduced the newest MacBook Pro laptop featuring the advanced M3 processor. Despite a seemingly recognizable appearance, the addition of a captivating Space Black color enhances the latest model, maintaining its top-notch and minimalist design. The laptop also preserves its impressive mini-LED display, along with an exceptional keyboard and touchpad.
Although opting for the new MacBook Pro may seem like a simple choice, it’s essential to reassess. The latest machines bring forth several noteworthy factors that require careful consideration, introducing a level of complexity to the decision-making process that wasn’t present in the previous generation.
Apple Silicon has gotten much more confusing
The introduction of the latest MacBook Pros has led to an increase in the number of CPUs, introducing greater complexity. Notably, Apple has phased out the 13-inch MacBook Pro, replacing it with the MacBook Pro 14 that features the base M3 processor. Unlike previous generations, where only Pro and Max versions were available, the current MacBook Pro lineup includes the entry-level M3 processor.
Potential buyers now need to take into account the new 8-core CPU/10-core GPU M3 processor, starting at a price of $1,599. Despite the higher cost compared to the now obsolete 13-inch MacBook Pro, the increased price is justified by the significantly improved display and superior audio quality.
Apart from the base M3, the laptop also offers an M3 Pro with fewer cores. Specifically, there is an option for an 11-core CPU/14-core GPU M3 Pro, while the MacBook Pro 16 starts with a 12-core CPU/18-core GPU M3 Pro. Both models can be upgraded to a 16-core CPU/40-core GPU M3 Max.
Adding to the complexity, the 12-core M3 Pro is configured with six performance cores and six efficient cores, in contrast to the previous M2 Pro, which had eight performance cores and four efficient cores. Additionally, the memory bandwidth has decreased from 200 GB/s to 150 GB/s. Consequently, the performance gains of this version of the M3 Pro are unlikely to match those of the other configurations.
Be careful if you want to run multiple monitors
The MacBook Air, equipped with the M2 processor, and the 13-inch MacBook Pro both had a restriction allowing connection to only one external display. The MacBook Pro 14, featuring the M2 Pro chip, could support two external displays, while the M2 Max chip extended this capability to four external displays.
However, with the introduction of the MacBook Pro 14 M3, this same limitation now applies to this particular lineup as well. The M3 variant is now constrained to only one external display.
Therefore, if your requirements involve using two or more displays with your MacBook Pro 14, and you wish to avoid employing potentially problematic workarounds, it is advisable to opt for an M3 Pro or M3 Max model.
Be careful with memory
The introduction of the base M3 to the MacBook Pro has resulted in a change in the available base memory options. Priced at $1,599, this model includes an 8-core CPU/10-core GPU M3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Notably, the base SSD no longer utilizes slower NAND storage, eliminating any performance drawbacks in that regard, which is positive news.
However, the drawback is that, contrary to Apple’s official stance, it seems that 8GB of RAM may indeed pose a bottleneck. The M3 Pro and M3 Max versions offer a minimum of 18GB of RAM, presenting a much more appealing option.
Furthermore, upgrading to 16GB of RAM incurs a $200 price increase, bringing the total to $1,799. In contrast, the base MacBook Pro 14 with an 11-core CPU/14-core GPU M3 Pro, featuring 18GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, is priced at $1,999. This implies that the savings of only $200 on the base M3 model might result in a significantly slower laptop.
For those on a tight budget and with workflows that don’t require more than 8GB of RAM, choosing the base M3 over the base M3 Pro of the MacBook Pro 14 may make sense, saving $400. However, if additional RAM is crucial, the argument for investing an extra $200 in the base M3 Pro becomes compelling.
Lastly, while the base M3 model supports up to 24GB of RAM, the M3 Pro and M3 Max can accommodate up to 128 GB. If your requirements exceed 24GB of RAM, avoiding the base M3 becomes necessary. Naturally, if you find yourself needing that much RAM, you are likely a power user who will benefit from the enhanced speeds of the more potent CPUs.
Fewer ports aren’t the greatest look
Recent MacBook Pros have maintained a consistent set of features, including three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, a full-size SD card reader, and a MagSafe 3 power connector. This configuration ensures seamless connectivity for users, regardless of the specific model chosen.
However, a recent change introduces a limitation. The base M3 MacBook Pro 14 now includes only two Thunderbolt 4 ports, in addition to the other connectivity options. While this change may not be a significant issue for most users, those who need an extra Thunderbolt 4 port will need to contemplate upgrading their configuration.
If battery life really matters
If giving priority to battery life over raw performance or a compact design is essential for you, there’s an additional factor to consider. Historically, the MacBook Pro 16 has consistently surpassed the 14-inch model in battery life, thanks to its 100-watt-hour battery, whereas the 14-inch model features a 72-watt-hour battery. This results in 22 hours versus 18 hours, indicating that while the MacBook Pro 14 offers excellent battery life, it falls slightly short compared to its larger counterpart.
On the flip side, the base M3 processor, with its slower speed and fewer cores, inherently operates more efficiently. This efficiency compensates for the slightly smaller 70-watt-hour battery in the base M3 MacBook Pro 14. According to Apple, it is expected to achieve the same impressive 22 hours of battery life as the 16-inch model. This makes the slowest MacBook Pro 14 an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize both extended battery life and portability over sheer performance.