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Apple Silicon MacBook Pro Q&A
Update Published November 28, 2023
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What are the "pros and cons" of the 14" and 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro models? Is one for me?
To help you determine whether or not a new or used 14" or 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro is the ideal Mac notebook for your purposes, an objective, quick-to-read "pros and cons" can be ideal.
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Apple Silicon 16" MacBook Pro)
For those who prefer a more detailed evaluation, EveryMac.com also provides an in-depth comparison of the original 2021 14" and 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro, Early 2023 14" and 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro, and current 14" and 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro.
However, for those who want just the highlights, this fast rundown will be perfect:
Pros:
- Very fast; each line is faster than the one before it and the Apple Silicon models all represent a substantial jump in performance compared to earlier MacBook Pro models.
- Impressive maximum battery life for each line.
- Beautiful, bright, high-resolution displays with adaptive refresh rates.
- "Classic" keyboard design but still useful "Touch ID" authentication.
- Clever, versatile "Force Touch" trackpad.
- High quality 1080p webcam, microphones, and speakers.
- HDMI, SD Card slot, and magnetic-connected "MagSafe 3" power connector all standard.
- Internal fans for cooler operation and potentially longer life.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Relatively bulky and heavy for a modern Mac notebook.
- No "Touch Bar" for those who liked the feature provided by earlier notebooks.
- Webcam "notch" in the display may annoy some users.
- Processor, RAM, and storage cannot be upgraded after purchase which will limit the useful life of the notebook.
So, is the 14" or 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro right for my needs?
If performance and connectivity are your top priorities, and you want a notebook, the 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro is as good as it gets. If performance still is a high priority, but you want something a bit more portable or affordable, the 14" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro also is an excellent choice and a solid compromise. Used models are more affordable than new ones and an easy way to save a bit of money, as well.
Nevertheless, if price or portability are more important to you than maximum performance, the much cheaper and lighter Apple Silicon MacBook Air is the best option. Of course, for those who are even more price sensitive, used Intel-powered Mac notebooks are even cheaper and remain well worth consideration, too.
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