Introduction
Apple has launched the new M4 MacBook Pro, which includes the 14-inch model, now equipped with the M4 Max, their top-end configuration. This device also features a new Nano texture finish on its screen, designed to reduce reflections—a first for Apple’s laptops. In this short article (by Techgency), I’ll cover the important things you need to know about the M4 MacBook Pro.
1. Performance
CPU Performance
The CPU gains this year are quite impressive, with significant improvements over the previous generations. The M4 Max outperforms the M2 Ultra in several benchmarks and workflows, making it a solid choice for power users.
GPU Performance
- Impressive GPU Gains in the M4 Max
The GPU gains on the M4 Pro are decent, but it’s the M4 Max that shines. The GPU boost significantly enhances graphics performance, particularly in GPU-bound applications and games.
- Ray Tracing Capabilities for Apps and Games
The addition of better ray tracing capabilities means that apps and games can now take full advantage of these features for a more realistic and immersive experience.
- Thermal Envelope: Power Efficiency Compared to Competitors
What’s most impressive about the M4 Max is its improved GPU performance with minimal increase in power consumption. Compared to AMD and Nvidia, Apple’s new chips achieve a remarkable performance boost without adding significantly to the power requirements or thermals.
Memory and Bandwidth
- Base Configuration and Memory Bandwidth Boost
The base configuration starts at 16 GB of memory, with increased memory bandwidth, noticeable even on the base models. For pro and max chip configurations, there is a significant boost in memory speed, which benefits applications that rely on fast memory.
- The Impact of Memory Speed vs. CPU and GPU Gains
It’s hard to determine exactly how much of this year’s gains are due to the memory speed improvements versus the CPU and GPU gains. All these elements work together, but it’s clear that the enhanced memory is contributing to better overall performance.
2. Screen and Display
Nano Texture Finish
- New Nanotexture Technology for Reduced Reflections
The M4 MacBook Pro now comes with the new Nano texture finish, designed to reduce reflections. It’s not just a diffusion effect; it’s a noticeable reduction in light emittance, which improves screen visibility in bright environments.
- Comparison Between Nanotexture and Glossy Finish
When compared to a regular glossy screen, the Nano texture finish makes a significant difference in reducing reflections. This feature is especially valuable for laptops, where you’re closer to the screen and tend to experience more distractions from glare.
- The Impact of Nanotexture on Laptop Use
On a laptop, this texture is more noticeable and valuable because the screen is closer to your face, and reflections are reduced more effectively. If I were buying this device, I would definitely opt for the Nano texture finish.
- How the Nanotexture is Applied
The Nano texture is not just a coating; it's part of the glass itself, achieved through an acid etching process. Apple claims it doesn’t affect the durability of the glass, but only time will tell.
Brightness and Screen Enhancements
- Increased Brightness with New Models
The M4 MacBook Pro displays are now able to hit 1,000 nits of peak brightness, making them brighter than previous models. However, this extra brightness only kicks in when the device detects a sufficiently bright environment.
- How Brightness Adjusts Based on Environment
Although the extra brightness is a nice feature, it’s not a must-have for everyone. If you need brighter displays, apps like Better Display can push the screen brightness beyond default settings.
- The Value of Brighter Displays for Everyday Use
In my opinion, the increased brightness is nice but not a deal-breaker for upgrading your device. It’s a good-to-have feature, but not a reason to rush out and buy the new MacBook Pro.
3. Ports and Connectivity
USBC Ports Configuration
The base M4 MacBook Pro now includes three USBC ports, an upgrade from last year’s model, which had only two. The extra port is a welcome addition for those who need more connectivity options.
- Thunderbolt 4 vs. Thunderbolt 5: What’s the Difference?
While the base model still uses Thunderbolt 4, the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips now support Thunderbolt 5. Thunderbolt 5 offers greater bandwidth, enabling higher resolution displays, which can be important for users who need those capabilities.
4. Battery Life
Improvements in Battery Longevity
The battery size remains the same as last year’s model, but Apple claims improved battery life for the new M4 MacBook Pro. In some testing, the testers didn’t notice a significant gain during heavy workflows, but for lighter tasks, the device lasted a little longer.
- Performance Under Heavy vs. Light Workloads
For tasks like heavy video editing or gaming, the battery life remains similar to last year’s models, but for basic use like web browsing or document editing, the battery lasts noticeably longer.
5. Webcam and Camera
12MP Camera and Center Stage
The new 12MP webcam now supports Center Stage, a feature that tracks your face and keeps you centered in the frame while you move around. This is a neat addition and improves image quality, though the difference is slight.
- Enhanced Image Quality and Face Tracking
The higher resolution camera helps improve video quality, and the face-tracking feature makes video calls more dynamic, similar to the experience found on iPads and iMacs.
 |
| image by TechRadar |
6. Design and Aesthetics
Color Options
Apple has discontinued the Space Gray color for this year’s MacBook Pro. The only dark color option now available is the new Space Black. This change may disappoint some users who preferred the classic Space Gray, but it’s a sleek and modern look nonetheless.
Conclusion
The new M4 Max MacBook Pro brings significant improvements, especially in GPU performance and display technology. The inclusion of the Nano texture finish, the increased USBC ports, and Thunderbolt 5 support are all noteworthy features. If you’re coming from an older model like the M1, M2, or M3 MacBook Pro, it may not be worth upgrading just yet, but for those looking for a power-packed laptop, the M4 MacBook Pro offers some serious upgrades.
