Apple’s new M4 Series MacBook Pros are on the horizon, and if you’re curious about what’s in store, you’re in the right place. We’ve gathered the latest details and rumors about these highly anticipated laptops, so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a devoted Apple fan or considering switching from Windows, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming M4 MacBook Pros.
Key Takeaways
- No Design Overhaul: The new MacBook Pros will look just like the previous models.
- Upgraded Connectivity: Expect Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for faster, more efficient connections.
- Display Tech Stays the Same: No OLED screens this year, but current mini LED displays are still top-notch.
- Possible Surprises: Apple might add unexpected features or improvements.
- Powerful Performance: The M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips promise impressive upgrades over previous models.
What’s New in the M4 Series MacBook Pros?
1. No Design Changes
Unfortunately, Apple isn’t shaking things up with the design of the new MacBook Pros. According to Mark Gurman, a well-known Apple leaker, the new 14-inch and 16-inch models will maintain the same design as their predecessors. This means you’ll see the same sleek lines and color options that you’re used to. While it’s a bit of a letdown if you were hoping for a fresh look, the current design is still modern and functional.
2. Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
One of the most exciting updates is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Wi-Fi 7 offers significantly faster speeds and more efficient performance compared to previous versions. It also integrates multiple frequency bands seamlessly, so you won’t need to manage different network settings manually. This upgrade promises smoother internet connections and improved performance for your online activities.
3. Display Technology Remains the Same
If you were hoping for a switch to OLED screens, you might be disappointed. The new MacBook Pros will stick with the current mini LED technology. This means you’ll get the same excellent 120Hz ProMotion display, known for its vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. While OLED screens are rumored to be on the horizon for 2026, mini LED remains a high-quality option for now.
4. Potential Surprises
Apple loves to add unexpected features to their new releases. For instance, the 15-inch MacBook Air surprised users with improved speakers. Similarly, the M4 MacBook Pros might include some surprises. Possibilities include increased standard display brightness, additional ports, or even Face ID integration. While these are speculative, they would be welcome enhancements.
5. M4 Chips: What to Expect
The new MacBook Pros will be powered by the M4 Series chips, including the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max. Here’s what you can expect:
- M4 Chip: The base model 14-inch MacBook Pro will feature the M4 chip, likely priced around $1,600. It might come with four Thunderbolt controllers, potentially adding a third Thunderbolt port.
- M4 Pro Chip: This will be available in higher-end models starting at $2,000. It’s expected to come with faster SSDs and up to 18GB of RAM. The M4 Pro could also feature more GPU cores, possibly up to 20.
- M4 Max Chip: The top-tier option, the M4 Max, might include up to 18 CPU cores and up to 42 GPU cores. This chip is anticipated to deliver exceptional performance, making it ideal for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
Comparing the M4 Series to Windows Competitors
Let’s see how the M4 Series stacks up against some of the best Windows laptops:
Performance Benchmarks
- Geekbench 6 Single-Core: The M4 chips outperform current Windows laptops. The base M4 chip and the M4 Pro and Max will excel in single-core performance, making them highly efficient for everyday tasks.
- Geekbench 6 Multi-Core: The M4 Pro and M4 Max show substantial gains in multi-core performance. The M4 Max, in particular, will likely surpass competitors with its high core count, delivering top-notch performance for intensive applications.
- Cinebench 2024: While the base M4 chip might lag slightly behind some Windows models, the M4 Pro and Max will compete strongly. The M4 Max is expected to dominate with its impressive performance.
- 3D Mark Steel Nomad Light: Graphics performance is where the M4 Max truly shines. It will likely outperform Windows laptops with dedicated GPUs, showing just how powerful Apple’s integrated graphics can be.
Value for Money
The new M4 Series MacBook Pros are set to offer excellent value, especially considering their performance improvements over previous models. The base model will provide robust performance at a competitive price, while the M4 Pro and M4 Max will cater to high-end users needing more power.
Should You Wait for the M4 Chips?
If you’re in the market for a new MacBook Pro, waiting for the M4 Series could be a smart move. With substantial performance gains and new features on the horizon, these laptops are likely to provide a significant upgrade over the current models and even beat many Windows competitors.
In conclusion, while the design may remain unchanged, the M4 Series MacBook Pros are shaping up to be a powerful and exciting upgrade. Whether you’re a creative professional, a gamer, or just need a high-performance laptop, the upcoming MacBook Pros will be worth your attention. Keep an eye out for their release, likely in October or November, and prepare to be impressed by Apple’s latest innovation.