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Apple Silicon MacBook Pro Q&A
Update Published December 9, 2024
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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" 1Book 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, Late 2023 14" and 16" Apple Silicon MacBook Pro, and current 2024 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 or better (2024 models have an even better 12 megapixel "Center Stage" camera that tracks and zooms to keep subjects in frame).
- High quality 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 have become much cheaper and remain well worth consideration, too.
In the US, site sponsor Adorama sells new MacBook Pro models with free shipping. Other World Computing sells used and refurb MacBook Pro models at bargain prices with free shipping, as well. On the other hand, if you need to sell a MacBook Pro, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac and GoRoostr will buy your older notebook with an instant quote and prompt payment.
In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs sells used MacBook Pro models with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK.
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