Pros:
– Performance rivals a desktop Mac Studio
– Display brings 120Hz ProMotion, 1,600 nits of brightness
– 14-inch model packs a ton of power in a small package
– GPU improvements make it strong for multimedia pros
Cons:
– Very expensive to get the best configurations
– Heavy for its size because of all the metal
– Fan is loud (even if it rarely turns on)
– Low-end configs don’t make sense next to M2 MacBook Air
ZDNET’s buying advice:
The M3 MacBook Pro lineup has raised the bar for what a laptop is capable of, setting new standards not only for Apple but for the industry as a whole. With powerful M3 processors, these laptops are some of the most powerful on the market. While 2024 promises to be a big year for laptops with Windows machines equipped with Snapdragon X Elite chips, Apple’s next generation M4 chips will likely continue to outperform the competition.
While the M3 MacBook Pro is a powerhouse with up to 128GB of RAM, powerful 3D graphics rendering, and stunning displays, the M3 MacBook Air is also a solid choice for those not needing high-end graphics or creative work. For most people and enterprises, the 15-inch M3 MacBook Air remains a reliable and professional option.
Overall, the MacBook Pro (M3 Max) impresses with next-generation 3-nanometer chips, delivering desktop-class performance in a laptop. The Liquid Retina XDR Display, full performance on battery, and stronger 3D graphics make it a standout choice for professionals across various industries.