Deeply Comparing the 2021 MacBook Pro M1 M2 M3 and M4 Max

Apple's MacBook Pro range is the benchmark for performance in both creative and professional workloads. This article provides a thorough comparison of the M1 Max, M2 Max, M3 Max, and M4 Max processors found in Apple's 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models since October 2021. The Max moniker denotes the most powerfully equipped MacBook Pro that can be found, so this isn't about lower end bargain MacBooks, instead the focus of this article is on differences in performance, specifications, features, pricing, and suitability for various user needs of these top-end MacBook Pro computers.

TL;DR – The newly released M4 Max outshines its predecessors—the M1 Max, M2 Max, and M3 Max—in multiple performance aspects, including CPU and GPU power, SSD speeds, sustainability credentials and application efficiency, though it comes at a much higher price than a user or refurbished model. Users looking for peak performance and newer features without budget constraints should go for the M4 Max, while those on a budget can still find excellent value in the refurbushed market for M3, M2 or M1 Max models. The M1 Max is particularly noteworthy, delivering much of the compute power and most of the features that current new model has, at a fraction of the price, with software updates guaranteed for years to come! My pick would be a 14-inch M1 Max (MacBookPro18,4) or M2 Max (Mac14,5), maxed out as much as my budget and reputable refurbished availability allows!

The Max chips

A summary of the main points of difference can be gleaned from the Apple newsroom announcements for each processor. These, thankfully, follow the same format despite being years apart in release. Other manufacturers take note that this is how to do it!

M1 Max

These chips feature up to a 10-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 64GB of unified memory, ProRes acceleration, and industry-leading power efficiency

M1 Max features the same powerful 10-core CPU as M1 Pro and adds a 32-core GPU for up to 4x faster graphics performance than M1.

M1 Max transforms graphics-intensive workflows, including up to 13x faster complex timeline rendering in Final Cut Pro compared to the previous-generation 13-inch MacBook Pro

M1 Pro and M1 Max include an Apple-designed media engine that accelerates video processing while maximizing battery life. With M1 Max, the new MacBook Pro can transcode ProRes video in Compressor up to a remarkable 10x faster compared with the previous-generation 16-inch MacBook Pro.

Both M1 Pro and M1 Max are loaded with advanced custom technologies that help push pro workflows to the next level:

• A 16-core Neural Engine for on-device machine learning acceleration and improved camera performance.
• A new display engine drives multiple external displays.
• Additional integrated Thunderbolt 4 controllers provide even more I/O bandwidth.
• Apple’s custom image signal processor, along with the Neural Engine, uses computational video to enhance image quality for sharper video and more natural-looking skin tones on the built-in camera.
• Best-in-class security, including Apple’s latest Secure Enclave, hardware-verified secure boot, and runtime anti-exploitation technologies.

M2 Max

M2 Max feature a more powerful CPU and GPU, up to 96GB of unified memory, still with industry-leading power efficiency

M2 Pro scales up the architecture of M2 to deliver an up to 12-core CPU and up to 19-core GPU, together with up to 32GB of fast unified memory. M2 Max builds on the capabilities of M2 Pro, including an up to 38-core GPU, double the unified memory bandwidth, and up to 96GB of unified memory.

M2 Max features the same next-generation 12-core CPU as M2 Pro. The GPU is even more powerful with up to 38 cores, and is paired with a larger L2 cache. Graphics speeds climb up to 30 percent faster than M1 Max. 

M2 Pro and M2 Max feature updated custom technologies:

Both M2 Pro and M2 Max include Apple’s next-generation, 16-core Neural Engine, capable of 15.8 trillion operations per second, and up to 40 percent faster than the previous generation.
• M2 Pro has an immensely powerful and efficient media engine, including hardware-accelerated H.264, HEVC, and ProRes video encode and decode, allowing playback of multiple streams of 4K and 8K ProRes video while using very little power. M2 Max features two video encode engines and two ProRes engines, bringing up to 2x faster video encoding than M2 Pro.
• Apple’s latest image signal processor delivers better noise reduction and, along with the Neural Engine, uses computational video to enhance camera image quality.
• A next-generation Secure Enclave is a critical part of Apple’s best-in-class security.

M3 Max

The industry’s first 3-nanometer chips for a personal computer debut a next-generation GPU architecture and deliver dramatic performance improvements, a faster CPU and Neural Engine, and support for more unified memory

Rendering speeds are now up to 2.5x faster than on the M1 family of chips.1 The CPU performance cores and efficiency cores are 30 percent and 50 percent faster than those in M1, respectively, and the Neural Engine is 60 percent faster than the Neural Engine in the M1 family of chips. And, a new media engine now includes support for AV1 decode, providing more efficient and high-quality video experiences from streaming services.

M3 Max pushes the transistor count up to 92 billion and takes pro performance to the next level. The 40-core GPU is up to 50 percent faster than M1 Max, and support for up to 128GB of unified memory allows AI developers to work with even larger transformer models with billions of parameters. The 16-core CPU features 12 performance cores and four efficiency cores, achieving astonishing performance that’s up to 80 percent faster than M1 Max. And with two ProRes engines, M3 Max makes video post-production work on even the highest-resolution content fast and fluid, whether using DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Final Cut Pro. M3 Max is designed for pros needing the highest performance available in a MacBook Pro with industry-leading battery life in a pro laptop

M4 Max

The most advanced family of chips ever built for a personal computer

M4 Pro and M4 Max enable Thunderbolt 5 for the Mac for the first time, and unified memory bandwidth is greatly increased — up to 75 percent. Combined with a Neural Engine that’s up to 2x faster than the previous generation and enhanced machine learning (ML) accelerators in the CPUs, the M4 family of chips brings incredible performance for pro and AI workloads.

M4 Max is the ultimate choice for data scientists, 3D artists, and composers who push pro workflows to the limit. It has an up to 16-core CPU, with up to 12 performance cores and four efficiency cores. It’s up to 2.2x faster than the CPU in M1 Max. The GPU has up to 40 cores for performance that is up to 1.9x faster than M1 Max. So heavy workloads like de-noising raw video footage in DaVinci Resolve Studio can now run in real time.

M4 Max supports up to 128GB of fast unified memory and up to 546GB/s of memory bandwidth.

M4 Max vs M3 Max vs M2 Max vs M1 Max: New features in the MacBook Pro's

Each iteration of the MacBook Pro has introduced features aimed at enhancing user experience, particularly benefitting professionals in creative fields. The M4 Max, launched in late 2023, introduces several critical enhancements over its predecessors, embedding Apple’s emerging technologies like Apple Intelligence, which aims to streamline user interactions through adaptive performance tuning.

One notable addition is the brighter mini-LED display, providing improved contrast ratios and visual clarity, especially significant for video editing and graphic design professionals. Furthermore, the M4 Max supports Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, enabling seamless connections to multiple 5K monitors, thus elevating productivity. The incorporation of upgraded camera features enhances video conferencing experiences, making it a compelling choice for remote professionals. The lack of many real-world Thunderbolt 5 devices is a notable concern however. 

Each chip represents a different model from Apple, with variations in options. The M1 Max, M2 Max, and M3 Max are no longer being sold as new models. They can still be sourced refurbished, providing an affordable alternative for users who reuqire the power but not, perhaps all the incremental features in the latest design. The M4 Max, however, is positioned as the flagship, which will always be appealing to users demanding maximum output from their devices.

Pricing analysis

As of 2023, the pricing structure for the MacBook Pro models reflects the advancements in technology and performance capabilities. The M4 Max variants are priced between £3,200 for the base 14-inch model to £7,200 for the fully maxed-out 16-inch model. While these figures may seem steep, they correspond to substantial performance increases and I seem to remember ordering a 16MHz 68030 based Macintosh SE/30 for over £3,000 back in 1989!

On the other hand, the M1 Max, M2 Max, and M3 Max can be acquired at remarkably lower prices through refurbished outlets. Users seeking high-performance devices without the premium associated with the latest model can still find compelling options in the previous generations. Nevertheless, keeping in mind the evolving technological requirements, potential buyers should evaluate their individual needs and budget, and condition, warranties and batteries may be an issue so it is important to tread carefully.

These variations in pricing reflecting the shinieness of the latest models but all the Max series Macbook Pro computers are sure to be updateable to the latest version os macOS, and its optional features, for the longest possible time, extending the life of the devices before an upgrade is needed, and importantly these devices will hold their resale value far better tha entry level MacBook Pro computers.

CPU performance comparison

Performance benchmarks confirm the M4 Max as a top-tier processor within the Apple family. Equipped with a 16-core CPU, it showcases a processing capability nearly 2.2 times that of the M1 Max, highlighting its suitability for data scientists, 3D artists, and composers seeking rigorous computational power.

The M3 Max also significantly improves computational performance over the M1 and M2 Max, with up to 80% faster results in CPU-intensive environments, according to recent benchmark tests. Such advancements denote profound improvements in executing demanding tasks like software development and scientific computing.

Users on prior models, particularly the M1 and M2 Max, may experience a defined performance uplift with the M3 and M4 Max chips. However, potential users should analyse whether the increased computational capability is essential for their chosen applications before considering an upgrade. Many power users will be more than happy with the capabilities of the M1 and M2 Max.

SSD speed tests

Solid State Drive (SSD) performance plays a crucial role in the overall responsiveness of laptops, especially during tasks that demand high-speed read/write capabilities. The M4 Max exhibits outstanding speeds, excelling in both read and write tests, surpassing those of the M1, M2, and M3 Max models.

Benchmarks demonstrate that the M4 Max SSD performs exceptionally well in data-intensive tasks, which is pertinent for professionals dealing with large files as is often the case in video editing and graphic design. The increased throughput of SSDs translates into reduced loading times and overall enhanced application performance.

Although the earlier models perform admirably, especially in everyday tasks, the advancements in the M4 Max chip's SSD performance might be essential for professionals whose workflows depend on rapid data processing. The choice of model may hinge upon these benefits, especially in a competitive professional environment.

GPU capabilities evaluation

The graphical capabilities of the M4 Max have expanded notably with a 40-core GPU, showcasing a performance gain of 1.9 times when contrasted with the M1 Max. Features such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading enhance the visual output, making it transformative for graphic-heavy applications.

In comparison, the M2 Max and M3 Max also deliver considerable improvements in GPU performance, with the M3 Max scoring over 28% faster in tasks involving demanding graphics rendering compared to the M1 Max. This boost is particularly notable in gaming and real-time rendering scenarios.

For professionals in sectors like video production and animation, understanding the GPU enhancements is critical to making informed choices. The M4 Max presents itself as the prime candidate for projects necessitating maximum graphical fidelity and processing speed, particularly in real-time visualisation tasks. In these environments, budget is less likely to be a concern.

Gaming performance landscapes

MacBooks have often been derided as gaming platforms, but notably, gaming performance on the M4 Max has seen significant enhancements, with hardware-accelerated ray tracing contributing to smoother gameplay and improved visual fidelity. Not only does this chip cater to casual gaming users, but it also positions itself as a strong alternative for professional gaming streamers and content creators.

The M3 Max also exhibited robust gaming performance, outperforming both the M1 Max and M2 Max, particularly in the most demanding gaming titles, where it offered higher frame rates and reduced latency. As gaming continues to evolve, especially on macOS, possessing a powerful GPU can markedly enhance the overall experience.

While the M4 Max certainly leads the pack in gaming performance, those who are primarily using their devices for productivity may find the gaming capabilities of the M2 or M3 Max sufficient for their needs. The gaming segment serves as an important aspect when evaluating which device suits a prospective user's preferences, especially for the audience for used or refurbished MacBook computers.

Usage scenarios for varying professionals

User segmentation helps determine which MacBook model might be appropriate for differing professions. The M4 Max is substantially efficient in coding, music production, and 3D rendering tasks, showcasing performance improvements that can save significant time in workflows.

For instance, in music production, the enhanced processing powers allow for larger sample libraries and faster audio rendering, ensuring a smoother workflow. Additionally, in 3D rendering, the capabilities of hardware-accelerated features dramatically decrease rendering times, thus optimising project delivery schedules.

In contrast, those working in more basic environments, such as web browsing and word processing, would still find rocket ship performance with the M2 or M1 Max models at a competitive price point. So, assessing your own professional requirements is vital for making an effective investment decision.

Video transcoding efficiencies

Video transcoding remains a critical task across numerous professions, particularly in media production. The M4 Max showcases exceptional performance in this area, completing transcoding tasks significantly faster than the M1, M2, and M3 Max processors.

This efficiency is enhanced by its powerful processing capabilities and advanced encoding technologies, which perform real-time tasks with greater speed and accuracy, ultimately saving valuable time for producers and editors. The capability to render high-resolution content quickly is turning out to be a game-changer in production timelines.

In scenarios demanding high-quality outputs, such as broadcasting and live streaming, the M4 Max presents a noteworthy consideration. However, for minor video editing issues, the improvements seen in the M2 and M1 Max models may be sufficient and warrant a lower investment.

Comparison table: M1 Max, M2 Max, M3 Max and M4 Max

The differences are subtle at times, and hard to pick out on official sites. These are the ones that are most potentially of interest to those considering a refurbished model.

Conclusion: selecting the most suitable MacBook Pro

In summary, the MacBook Pro line-up with the M1 Max, M2 Max, M3 Max, and M4 Max presents users with varying levels of performance suited to their specific requirements.

The M4 Max signifies the current apex of power and capability for those needing state-of-the-art performance in their work and users with limitless budgets seeking superior CPU and GPU performance, rapid SSD speeds, and improved gaming capabilities should gravitate towards the M4 Max.

Conversely, those on more limited means or aiming to conserve budget while still achieving high performance for many workloads may find valuable alternatives in the M2 or M1 Max models, especially for less intensive applications.

It remains to be seen if M3 Max MacBook Pro computers drop in price difference to M4 Max MacBook Pro computers so these remain tricky to recommend because if you can afford one you might as well get an M4 Max!

Ultimately, examining personal workflows and specific tasks against the performance metrics of these units will inform a sound purchasing decision. For my part, an M1 Max or an M2 Max makes for a formidable computer. I wonder what my SE/30 would have thought of it all.