Apple has recently unveiled its latest generation of MacBook Pros, featuring the highly anticipated M3 chip. Available in both 14-inch and 16-inch models, the new MacBook Pro M3 comes in three versions: the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max. In this article, we will explore the various configuration options for the MacBook Pro M3 and help you decide which model is the best fit for your needs.
Pricing
The pricing for the M3 MacBook Pros varies depending on the model and configuration you choose. For the 14-inch model, prices start at $1,600 for the base M3 with 8GB of Unified Memory and 512GB of storage.
There are two other stock configurations available: one with 1TB of storage for $1,800, and another with an 11-core CPU, 14-core GPU M3 Pro, 18GB of Unified Memory, and 512GB of storage for $2,000.
The 16-inch model is more expensive, starting at $2,500 for the base model with a 12-core CPU, 18-core GPU M3 Pro, 18GB of Unified Memory, and 512GB of storage.
Color Options
When it comes to color options, Apple has introduced a new Space Black color for the MacBook Pro M3. However, this color is only available with the M3 Pro or M3 Max chip.
If you opt for the M3 chip, you can choose from Space Gray or Silver. It’s worth noting that the color options are limited based on the chip you choose, so be sure to consider this when making your decision.
M3 vs. M3 Pro vs. M3 Max
The M3 chip is available in the 14-inch MacBook Pro with an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU. The M3 Pro comes in two configurations: an 11-core CPU and 14-core GPU or a 12-core CPU and 18-core GPU.
The M3 Max is available with either a 14-core CPU and 30-core GPU or a 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU. The 16-inch MacBook Pro offers the M3 Pro with a 12-core CPU and 18-core GPU, and the M3 Max with the same configurations as the 14-inch model.
Performance
While we don’t have exact performance metrics for the M3 chips yet, we can make some estimates based on comparisons to the previous M-series chips from Apple.
The M3 Max is expected to offer 50% faster CPU performance and 20% faster GPU performance compared to the M2 Max.
The M3 Pro is expected to offer decent generational improvements overall, mainly due to an enhanced GPU. The base M3 is expected to offer up to 20% faster CPU and GPU performance compared to the M2, and up to 35% faster CPU and 65% faster GPU performance compared to the M1.
Recommendations
Based on the available configuration options and expected performance, here are our recommendations for the MacBook Pro M3 models:
- 14-inch Model with M3 Chip: For those seeking a balance between performance and value, the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 chip is the ideal choice. This configuration includes 16GB of Unified Memory and 1TB of storage, all for a reasonable price of $2,000.
- 14-inch Model with M3 Pro Chip: For users who require a bit more power, the M3 Pro chip is the way to go. We recommend the 12-core CPU and 18-core GPU configuration, which comes with 36GB of Unified Memory and 1TB of storage. This powerful setup is priced at $2,600.
- 16-inch Model with M3 Max Chip: For professionals who need the highest level of performance, the 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 Max chip is the best option. This configuration boasts a 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU, along with 48GB of Unified Memory and 1TB of storage. This top-tier model is priced at $4,000.
Conclusion
The new MacBook Pro M3 models offer a range of configuration options to suit the needs of different users. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional, there’s a MacBook Pro M3 model that’s right for you. We hope this guide has helped you understand the different options available and make an informed decision on which model to choose.
