Apple MacBook Pro Review 2023
The MacBook Pro underwent a significant transformation in 2021, receiving an impressive makeover that included the integration of Apple Silicon, an array of ports, an upgraded 1080p webcam, and even a slightly thicker build to accommodate these enhancements. This marked a daring move, representing a substantial shift in direction for Apple in some instances. Presently, the latest iterations of the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros retain the exceptional qualities of that design while being updated to incorporate the advanced M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. These new chips bring forth heightened performance and durability compared to their predecessors.
These laptops continue to rank among the finest ultrabooks available, featuring stunning Mini-LED displays, superb speakers, and functionality that caters to both professionals and enthusiasts who enjoy creative pursuits.
Opting for upgrades in terms of top-tier components like RAM and storage will come at a notable cost beyond the base models. However, it's advisable to seriously consider these upgrades due to Apple's design, which doesn't allow for internal upgrades down the line. If you envision the need for 96GB of RAM with your M2 Max in the future, it's prudent to allocate the necessary funds at the time of purchase.
Thanks to the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, the MacBook Pro now boasts unprecedented power, making it an appealing replacement option for many individuals with older devices.
MacBook Pro Design
The latest versions of the 14 and 16-inch MacBook Pros retain the same chassis design introduced in the previous year's revamp. Despite this, they continue to exude a fresh and modern feel, offering substantial power and a commendable selection of ports. I find this decision acceptable due to the retained solid features. Both sizes incorporate angular sides paired with curved edges, blending professional functionality with Apple's distinctive aesthetic.
In our evaluation, we had the silver 14-inch MacBook Pro and the space gray 16-inch variant (a personal preference), though the color distinction isn't overly pronounced. Notably, the laptops now come with MagSafe power cables that match their respective colors. While the lid of both sizes and colors bears Apple's logo in a subtle mirror finish that harmonizes with the overall minimalistic design.
Whether you opt for the 14.2-inch or 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, you'll observe a notch at the top, akin to the notch on the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus (the 14 Pro line adopted a pill-shaped cutout last year). This design alteration allows for the integration of a 1080p camera. Personally, having purchased a 14-inch MacBook Pro with M1 Pro last year, I've consistently noticed the notch, in contrast to my experience with my iPhone. This remains true for this year's Pros, as well as the M2 MacBook Air. Despite the screens being slightly taller than the standard 16:10 aspect ratio, usable screen space remains unchanged compared to previous models. For those who, like me, find the notch bothersome, solutions such as software like TopNotch exist, which darken the menu bar to help the notch blend in. Interestingly, the cursor can still move beneath the notch, which appears to be an oversight.
However, all the other enhancements from the previous year's redesign are still noteworthy. The laptops feature full-sized function keys, Touch ID incorporated into the power button, and an abundance of ports.
Both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros share identical port configurations. On the left side, there's a MagSafe 3 charging port, a duo of Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. The right side encompasses an SDXC memory slot, a third Thunderbolt 4 port, and an improved HDMI port. This upgraded HDMI port supports 4K content at 240 Hz or 8K at 60 Hz, along with a variable refresh rate. While we didn't have access to a 4K 240 Hz monitor for testing (a relatively rare setup), we're curious about its performance.
In terms of dimensions, the 14-inch MacBook Pro measures 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches and weighs 3.5 pounds. Comparatively, the 16-inch MacBook Pro is sized at 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches and, when equipped with the M2 Max chip, weighs 4.8 pounds. By way of comparison, the popular Windows-based Dell XPS 15 (9520) measures 13.56 x 9.06 x 0.73 inches and weighs 4.31 pounds.
MacBook Pro Specifications
| Header Cell | 14-inch MacBook Pro | 16-inch MacBook Pro |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Apple M2 Pro (12-core CPU) | Apple M2 Max (12-core CPU) |
| Graphics | 19-core GPU | 38-core GPU |
| Memory | 16GB unified memory | 96GB unified memory |
| Storage | 1TB SSD | 4TB SSD |
| Display | 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, 3,024 x 1,964, 120 Hz ProMotion | 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, 3,456 x 2,234, 120 Hz ProMotion |
| Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ports | 3x Thunderbolt 4 over USB Type-C, HDMI, SDXC card slot, 3.5 mm headphone jack, MagSafe 3 | 3x Thunderbolt 4 over USB Type-C, HDMI, SDXC card slot, 3.5 mm headphone jack, MagSafe 3 |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD camera | 1080p FaceTime HD camera |
| Battery | 70 WHr | 100 WHr |
| Power Adapter | 96 W | 140 W |
| Operating System | macOS Ventura | macOS Ventura |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (312.6 x 221.2 x 15.5 mm) | 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches (355.7 mm x 248.1 mm x 16.8 mm) |
| Weight | 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg) | 4.8 pounds (2.16 kg) |
| Price (as configured) | $2,499.00 | $5,299.00 |
Gaming and Graphics on the MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro (2023) takes a significant step forward in enhancing gaming and graphics capabilities, primarily due to the integration of potent components. Both the 14-inch and 16-inch iterations incorporate impressive GPUs: the 14-inch model houses a 19-core GPU, while the 16-inch model elevates the experience further with a more robust 38-core GPU. These advanced graphics processors are purpose-built to tackle resource-intensive tasks, yielding improved performance across gaming, creative endeavors, and graphically demanding applications. Leveraging their Liquid Retina XDR displays featuring ProMotion technology, these laptops offer captivating visuals and seamless gameplay encounters. Whether you're a professional seeking top-tier graphics prowess or a gaming enthusiast in pursuit of immersive gameplay, the MacBook Pro (2023) presents an enticing solution with its elevated gaming and graphics capabilities.
Components of Macbook Pro
The MacBook Pro features a captivating Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, offering vibrant visuals and fluid interactions in both 14-inch and 16-inch models. Typing is comfortable and precise with the Magic Keyboard, while the expansive Force Touch trackpad supports seamless navigation. The audio system delivers high-quality sound through stereo speakers, enhancing the multimedia experience. While internal upgrades are limited due to the laptop's integrated design, the MacBook Pro's battery life is commendable, aided by efficient Apple M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. The 1080p FaceTime HD camera improves video quality, though its placement in the notch can be a minor drawback. The laptop's advanced thermal solutions ensure optimal performance and heat management during demanding tasks.
MacOS Ventura and Software
Operating on the MacBook Pro (2023), macOS Ventura stands as the latest iteration of Apple's operating system, introducing an array of refinements and features. Emphasizing productivity, aesthetics, and user experience, Ventura brings forth polished visual elements, enhanced multitasking capabilities, and bolstered security measures. The MacBook Pro seamlessly accommodates the demands of Ventura, ensuring seamless performance across diverse applications. Moreover, the laptop's robust hardware and compatibility with a wide spectrum of software, spanning creative suites, productivity tools, and entertainment applications, position it as a versatile platform for both professionals and enthusiasts. Whether engaging in video editing, software development, or leisurely multimedia consumption, the harmonious interplay between macOS Ventura and the MacBook Pro delivers a unified and efficient computing encounter.