The latest M4 chip update for the Mac lineup has been nothing short of a game changer. Apple unveiled the M4 Pro and M4 Max simultaneously, along with increased RAM options for the new Mac mini and MacBook Pro models. These upgrades certainly enhance the attractiveness of these fresh M4 devices.
However, amid all these exciting changes, two Macs have been left behind—and until they receive updates, they should be avoided.
Mac Studio (M2 Ultra)
The M4 Pro Mac mini demonstrates remarkable performance given its compact design. This impressive leap forward comes especially as there was no M3 generation for the Mac mini or Mac Studio, showcasing how significant the advancements are with the latest model.
This leap in performance renders the existing Mac Studio relatively uncompetitive. In many benchmarks, the M4 Pro Mac mini almost outperforms the M2 Ultra Mac Studio, despite having fewer cores. Particularly notable is the GPU performance— Apple’s advancements are highlighted by the fact that a 20-core Mac mini surpassed the 40-core Mac Studio in the Cinebench R24 GPU test. This illustrates just how far Apple’s graphics capabilities have progressed in recent years.
While the $4,000 M2 Ultra Mac Studio may offer better thermal management and higher sustained performance, it’s significantly larger and more expensive. Alternatively, the starting $2,000 M2 Max configuration, while an option, cannot compete with a similarly priced M4 Pro Mac mini that has higher memory options. Plus, the Mac mini is more compact and features non-soldered storage, offering more flexibility.
There’s no doubt that the forthcoming M4 Ultra Mac Studio will be impressive, but for now, opting for the Mac mini or waiting for the updated model would be wise.
MacBook Air 15-inch (M3)
The choice between the 15-inch MacBook Air and the 14-inch MacBook Pro has always been challenging, but recent updates have made the new M4 MacBook Pro a more compelling option. The MacBook Air starts at $1,299 with the M3 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. While the RAM upgrade from 8GB to 16GB is a positive change, the M4 MacBook Pro benefits from significant enhancements that make it the superior choice overall.
The MacBook Pro now features the M4 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage for $1,599. Matching the MacBook Air’s configuration requires an investment of $1,499, which is just $100 less than the MacBook Pro. Though $100 is not a trivial amount, the value you gain from the Pro model vastly outweighs the cost difference.
The MacBook Pro offers enhanced performance, a better display, additional ports, and a significant upgrade to the webcam.
There are essentially two scenarios where the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air might still appeal. For one, its starting price of $1,299 remains enticing, especially for anyone seeking a more budget-friendly Mac, as it starts with 256GB of storage.
Secondly, the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air is indeed thinner and lighter than the MacBook Pro, measuring just 0.43 inches thick and weighing 3.3 pounds, compared to the Pro’s 0.61-inch thickness. The difference of 0.3 pounds may not be highly noticeable, but the MacBook Air is undoubtedly more portable. However, if portability is your main concern, the smaller 13-inch MacBook Air is an even better choice, being lighter and more affordable.
The other significant reason to steer clear of the M3 MacBook Air right now is the impending M4 upgrade. Within just a few months, the M3 models are expected to be refreshed, which may bring additional enhancements. Therefore, it might be best to either go for the M4 MacBook Pro or hold off until the holiday season for the upgraded model.
