In the rapidly evolving tech world, questions are growing about whether consumers should wait to purchase the latest devices or take advantage of current offers. My friend’s question, as a video producer looking for a reliable laptop for long-term use, was whether he should buy the discounted MacBook Pro with the M3 chip or wait for the upcoming M4 model. While rumors swirled around the features of the new device, making a decision was challenging. In this article, we will explore what the new MacBook Pro with the M4 chip offers in terms of performance and specifications, and how it compares to the previous generation MacBook Pro with the M3 chip, to help you make an informed decision when considering an upgrade or purchase.
Choosing Between MacBook Pro M3 and M4: An Important Investment Decision
When faced with the choice of buying a new laptop, the decision becomes complex, especially with new technologies continuously evolving. The question of whether my friend should buy the MacBook Pro with the M3 chip or wait for the M4 chip presents a real challenge. This choice requires deep analysis of what each device offers in terms of specifications and performance, and how that impacts long-term work requirements. By the time the new MacBook Pro with the M4 chip was released, it was known to perform the same essential tasks as the previous model, but it lacks some new features that might justify the upgrade. Factors such as performance, storage space, and screen quality stand out clearly in discussions about device choices. The M4 chip’s platform is considered a nice upgrade but may not be sufficient for all users, making it important to take practical long-term usage into account.
Performance of MacBook Pro 14 with M4 Chip: What’s New?
The performance of the MacBook Pro 14 with the M4 chip is impressive thanks to Apple’s new architecture, featuring 10 processing cores and 10 graphics cores. The device’s ability to handle intensive tasks such as video production and gaming is a strong advantage, but results show that M4’s performance is not always superior to all devices on the market. When compared to other devices like the AMD Ryzen 9 and Intel Core Ultra, the M4 demonstrated strength in traditional performance benchmarks such as Geekbench and Cinebench, allowing it to excel in some cases. However, the research surrounding performance does not hide the fact that some users may need more graphical processing power in advanced applications like gaming. In games like Resident Evil 4, there was a noticeable drop in frame rates when attempting to run it at higher resolutions, indicating that while M4 is responsive, it needs improvements to become an ideal device for all use cases.
Design and Quality: What Does the New MacBook Pro 14 Hold?
The design has not changed much in the MacBook Pro 14 with the M4 chip, as it retains the same classic structure known from previous models. However, the screen has been improved, making it the first point of attraction for users. The new display offers higher brightness levels compared to previous models, enhancing the viewing experience when using the device in well-lit environments. The battery life has also expanded, supporting prolonged usage. As for inputs, features like the SD card slot and Thunderbolt 4 ports provide multiple connectivity options, yet they still fall short of many expectations in the evolving market. There is still grumbling about Apple’s lack of adoption of OLED technology in the new displays, making the viewing experience less smooth at times compared to competing devices. Minor criticisms like the ineffectiveness of the Nano textured display make users question their options regarding investing in the device.
Technology
The Latest: Should You Upgrade?
With the evolution of Apple technologies and the emergence of new M processors, an important question arises: Should users upgrade from old devices with Intel processors? The answer is not simple and depends on many personal factors. For artists and video photographers who rely on high performance, upgrades may be warranted. However, for average users, upgrading may not be necessary if their current devices are working well for their purposes. It is important to consider the current device’s uses versus the benefits that may be gained from an upgrade. Transitioning work to M processors, especially for MacBook users, could mean improvements in performance and energy efficiency. Users need to assess their actual needs, whether in the context of daily use or radical performance enhancements.
MacBook Pro 14 Camera Review
The MacBook Pro 14 camera is vibrant with its 12-megapixel resolution, showcasing one of the amazing features that Apple has introduced. Among the stunning features that enhance the appeal of using the camera in virtual meetings is the “Center Stage” function. This feature allows the camera to intelligently adjust the angle to keep people within the frame during video calls, providing a more professional experience. Thanks to this feature, you will avoid frame clutter and ensure smooth communication with colleagues. Despite the success of this technology, it still presents a challenge, such as when you doze off in your chair, as the camera cannot fully follow you if you lean back at a 90-degree angle. This function is ideal for clearly displaying content, such as DIY presentations or educational activities that require visual interaction. Especially when explaining how to perform origami, it makes it easier for our families to understand how to take a screenshot on their laptops.
While the camera can be considered excellent for certain purposes, it has been noted that there are downsides that need improvement. The actual performance of the camera may not always meet expectations, as videos recorded in low light conditions may have relatively mediocre quality. Although Apple has always been keen on delivering advanced tools, the camera improvements in the new version require a clearer vision compared to its competitors in the market.
Keyboard and Trackpad Experience
The user experience when using the keyboard and trackpad on the MacBook Pro 14 cannot be overlooked. The keyboard still suffers from repeated designs from previous years, giving an inflated sense of normality. The “Magic Keyboard” is acceptable and capable of delivering good performance, yet it lacks the necessary innovation and refresh to enhance the typing experience. The design features a “Function” key and a larger size, but the responsiveness on the keyboard falls short of many expectations. Interestingly, despite the various models like the “MacBook Air” featuring sleek designs, medium and high-level users may gravitate toward a more dynamic keyboard.
As for the trackpad interface, while it is practical and easy to use, it lacks the modernity that should be a hallmark of a product of this type. You won’t feel like you’re gliding on a smooth and exciting trackpad; on the contrary, you may find it returning you to an ordinary experience. Other laptops offer better experiences due to more sophisticated and precise trackpads, leading users to look forward to a tangible renewal in the upcoming generations of Apple products. Many need a stronger sense of interaction with the device, and it seems that Apple has yet to meet this need.
Performance
MacBook Pro 14 Battery
Apple takes pride in the performance of the MacBook Pro 14 battery, as testing has shown it can provide a strong 9 hours of continuous use, with 30% power remaining. This performance is commendable, especially when using high brightness and running multiple applications simultaneously. In a comprehensive test streaming a YouTube video for 24 hours, the battery managed to last for 12 hours, indicating remarkable efficiency. Compared to other devices, it cannot be denied that modern technologies such as Intel Core Ultra and Qualcomm Snapdragon are capable of achieving record numbers, but it is clear that Apple is making significant strides toward unmatched power improvements.
The battery represents one of the strongest selling points for the MacBook. The use of the new chip and balanced performance demonstrates what can be achieved in terms of stability over a long period. With the assurance that even extreme usage conditions will not necessarily affect performance, the current system implemented by Apple will remain a key competitor in the laptop market. Experts are waiting to see how Apple will continue to meet rising market demands and the passion for more improvements, especially with new chips expected in 2025.
AI Capabilities in MacBook Pro 14
AI-powered capabilities are one of the main trends in technology today. With the MacOS 15 Sequoia, Apple has introduced several enhancements and developments based on AI technologies. These features include improved mirroring with iPhones and minor adjustments in Safari and Control Center browsers. Notably, the company has expanded these features to be available to users of 2018 models and later. Particularly those features that include AI, the integration of Siri with ChatGPT was a declaration of Apple joining the era of machine learning.
Despite the enhancements, the new features still require more development. While version 15.1 launched several useful functions, the results were not impressive. The mentioned features received mixed reviews; for example, summarizing texts for messages or notifications was not as effective as anticipated. The quality in processing searches and responses showed tension in its accuracy. With the beta version 15.2, the experience was varied, and the Image Playground interface that allows for image creation experiences established itself to yield results below expectations.
As evident, while Apple aspires to use AI in a way that goes beyond simple files, the real ability to enhance these applications requires additional effort. It can be said that the future of AI in laptops is still at the beginning of its journey, and we await exciting future steps. Optimism regarding upcoming updates and building a user base could maintain Apple’s position in the competitive market.
Source link: https://gizmodo.com/apple-macbook-pro-14-2024-review-like-an-old-friend-who-wont-leave-you-alone-2000521098
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