Apple’s latest 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip for 2024 is more of a performance upgrade than a groundbreaking release. Unlike the compact innovation of the Mac mini (M4, 2024), this laptop sticks to familiar territory in design while integrating Apple’s cutting-edge M4 series chips. These new processors position the MacBook Pro as one of the most powerful mobile workstations available, rivaling desktop PCs in terms of performance.
For users who have been eagerly waiting for the M4 chip to show its full potential, this laptop offers a robust platform. The 16-inch model announced in October 2024 might be the perfect match for power users, though it comes with a few limitations. Notably, it retains the design of its predecessors but houses the latest M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. These chips significantly enhance performance, making the laptop ideal for professionals in demanding fields.
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro, 2024) Review
Apple’s latest 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip for 2024 is more of a performance upgrade than a groundbreaking release. Unlike the compact innovation of the Mac mini (M4, 2024), this laptop sticks to familiar territory in design while integrating Apple’s cutting-edge M4 series chips. These new processors position the MacBook Pro as one of the most powerful mobile workstations available, rivaling desktop PCs in terms of performance.
For users who have been eagerly waiting for the M4 chip to show its full potential, this laptop offers a robust platform. The 16-inch model announced in October 2024 might be the perfect match for power users, though it comes with a few limitations. Notably, it retains the design of its predecessors but houses the latest M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. These chips significantly enhance performance, making the laptop ideal for professionals in demanding fields.
Price and Availability
- Starting Price: $2,499 / £2,499 / AU$3,999
- Customizations: Upgrades in RAM, storage, and display options are available.
The new MacBook Pro is undeniably expensive, starting at $2,499 for the M4 Pro model with 24GB of unified memory. However, it offers customization options, allowing users to increase memory up to 128GB and storage up to 8TB. A nano-texture display to reduce screen glare is also available for an additional $150 / £150 / AU$230.
Interestingly, while the price remains the same as the M3 Pro model in the US, buyers in the UK and Australia will find the M4 Pro slightly cheaper. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the smaller 14-inch MacBook Pro with the base M4 chip starts at $1,599 / £1,599 / AU$2,499.
Design
- Dimensions: 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches
- Weight: 4.7 lbs (2.2 kg)
The 2024 MacBook Pro retains its sleek, professional design without any notable visual changes. While its large size makes it less convenient for on-the-go use, the 16-inch screen is a pleasure for work. The port selection remains robust, featuring Thunderbolt 5 compatibility, HDMI, and an SDXC card slot. This addition of Thunderbolt 5 ensures faster data transfers and makes the laptop future-proof.
The display is one of the MacBook Pro’s standout features. The 3456 x 2234 Liquid Retina XDR screen offers incredible clarity and color accuracy, supported by mini-LED and ProMotion technology. The optional nano-texture surface minimizes reflections, ideal for bright environments or outdoor use.
One notable design upgrade is the improved 12MP ultra-wide webcam with Center Stage, a feature that keeps users centered in the frame during video calls.
Desk View is another innovative addition, capturing both the user and their workspace simultaneously. However, repairability remains an issue, with no option for post-purchase upgrades.
Performance
- Processor: M4 Pro (14-core CPU, 20-core GPU)
- Memory: Starts at 24GB unified memory, upgradable to 48GB.
- Battery Life: Over 21 hours in video playback tests.
Performance is where the MacBook Pro 16-inch truly shines. The M4 Pro chip delivers exceptional power, effortlessly handling resource-intensive tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering. Benchmarks reveal a modest improvement over the M3 series, but the M4 Pro stands out as a reliable and efficient performer.
For professionals in video editing or animation, this laptop offers an unrivaled combination of speed and efficiency. Even under heavy workloads, the system stays cool and quiet, showcasing Apple’s expertise in hardware optimization.
Verdict
The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M4 Pro, 2024) is a powerhouse, ideal for creative professionals and power users who demand top-tier performance. While its design lacks novelty, the inclusion of the M4 chips and thoughtful features like Thunderbolt 5 and Center Stage webcam make it a worthy upgrade for those coming from older MacBook Pro models. However, its steep price and limited repairability may deter some buyers.
