Latest news with #M4Max
Geek Culture
06-06-2025
- Geek Culture
Mac Studio (M4 Max, 2025)
If there's one thing Apple has proven with the Mac Studio, it's that size doesn't determine performance. Ever since the company shrunk its desktop from tower size to well, box size, it has taken great care to show that its premium performance tabletop machines have condensed pure muscle packed into a highly compact form factor, serving as an alternative for power users who want the might of the Mac Pro tower workstations but can do without the extra heft. Three generations in, and its legacy is still going strong, so it only stands to reason that the latest model, powered by the company's own M4 Max processor and the M3 Ultra – the first in the lineup to come equipped with two generations of chips – will continue in the same vein. Indeed, the 2025 iteration of the Mac Studio reinforces its status as a creative powerhouse, with upgraded hardware, generous connectivity, and impressive AI-driven capabilities improving on already sky-high standards. Maintaining the same aesthetic identity since its 2022 debut, the lunchbox-sized offering comes decked out in a familiar silver-skinned, all-aluminium chassis. Rounded corners complete the minimalist look, and its physical build remains unchanged at 2.7kg for the M4 Max model and 3.6kg for the M3 Ultra, accompanied by the 9.5 cm-tall, 19.7-by-19.7cm footprint of its predecessors. Under the hood are where distinctions lie. The previous generation, sporting the M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips, supports up to a 12-core CPU, 38-core GPU, and a 24-core CPU, 76-core GPU configuration respectively. Meanwhile, this year's variant takes it up to 16 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores for the M4 Max version. But instead of the top of the line Ultra with the M4, Apple has opted for the beefier M3 Ultra model, which can be upgraded to 32 CPU cores and 80 GPU cores. This might sound a little confusing, as shouldn't the newer M4 chip tout more power over its M3 predecessor? Well, it's not in this case, as the Ultra chipset is larger and formed by fusing two M3 Max chips. Neural Engine processing isn't the same on both models either, as are the RAM and storage options. The base M4 Max version boasts a 16-core Neural Engine, 36GB of unified memory, and 512GB of storage (configurable to 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, or 8TB), whereas its M3 Ultra sibling comes in at 32 Neural Engine cores, 96GB of base unified memory, and starts with 1TB of SSD that tops out at 16TB. Additionally, the latter features a copper heatsink instead of the standard aluminium, allowing for improved heat dissipation. Receiving a boost to its unified memory and SSD (128GB + 1TB), this M4 Max-powered review unit strikes a welcome balance between value and high performance for workstation tasks, starting with connectivity. The device is the first in the family to offer Thunderbolt 5 functionality, with four USB-C ports at its rear delivering speeds of up to 120 Gbps, and support for USB 4 (up to 120 Gbps), USB 3 (up to 10 Gbps), and DisplayPort 2.1. Alongside the power button, the rest of the lineup comprises two USB-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 and 10Gb Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. On the front are two USB-C ports and an SD card reader, the former of which is swapped out for Thunderbolt 5 ports on the M3 Ultra model. Like before, this year's Mac Studio with M4 Max can power up to five displays simultaneously – namely four displays with 6K over Thunderbolt and one display with 4K resolution at 144Hz over HDMI, or two displays with 6K resolution at 60Hz and one with 8K resolution at 60 Hz, or at 4K resolution at up to 240Hz over HDMI. Meanwhile, the M3 Ultra variant supports up to eight displays with 6K resolution at 60Hz or 4K resolution at up to 144Hz, or four displays with 8K resolution at 6K or 4K resolution at up to 240Hz. Casual users will likely find both options, especially the latter, to be excessive, which makes it clear who the Mac Studio is meant for. Where the MacBook Pro and Air, or the Mac mini series, are designed with everyday use in mind, this desktop is best suited to creative professionals and heavy-duty workflows, from video editing and rendering 3D environments to running large language models (LLMs). Anything more demanding requiring up to seven PCI Express expansion slots, and it's a job for the ultra-high-end Mac Pro tower. Indeed, the Mac Studio with M4 Max cements its status as a well-oiled machine for both work and play. Apple claims that it can support up to 18 streams of ProRes video playback, and a fraction of that brawn peeked through benchmarking tests across various software, including Cinebench R24, Geekbench 6, and Novabench. On Cinebench R24, its GPU rendering score came in at 16,740 points, alongside 2,089 (multi-core) and 186 points (single-core) in the CPU department. This puts the desktop ahead of the competition, with the M1 Ultra model – results of the more recent M2 Ultra iteration, released in 2023, weren't included in the app's list for direct comparison – trailing behind at 1,629 and 113, respectively. The performance one-upmanship was also reflected in Geekbench 6, which recorded a single-core score of 3,978 and a 21,160 multi-core score (versus 2,778 and 21,555 on the M2 Ultra model). Meanwhile, Novabench notes that its overall score of 4,650 ranks higher than 98 percent of all systems tested, broken down into the following: CPU: 2,466 GPU: 812 Memory: 748 Storage: 624 Expect a smoother creative workflow with the M4 Max chip, too. Rendering 5GB of 4K 60 frames-per-second (FPS) footage in Adobe Premiere Pro through VBR Pass 1, otherwise known as a single-pass variable bitrate, of 60 took five minutes, and the software encoding via CBR at a bitrate of 60 clocked five minutes and 16 seconds. More notably, the latter marks a significant improvement over the time taken for the M2 Ultra model to execute the same task, at eight minutes and 58 seconds. In any case, the beefy specifications of the Mac Studio make it enjoyable to navigate the editing software at full resolution. Not only are fast export times a given, but scrolling through a dense, tightly-packed timeline proved to be a lag-free affair with no hiccups observed. Encoding performance in Handbrake was equally speedy, with the process completed in six minutes and 29 seconds – a whole minute faster than its predecessor. It's a particularly impressive feat, as a single-chip system doesn't often match, much less surpass, a dual-CPU system. While hardly a dedicated gaming device, the device boasts support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing to complement its 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU. The feature offers extra horsepower amid Apple's continued push into the gaming space, which sees the addition of several heavyweight titles to its 2025 lineup, and putting it to the test is Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's shiny new AAA title featuring hardware-accelerated real-time ray tracing on supported Apple chipsets like the M4 Max. With its ray tracing preset (that strangely, cannot be disabled completely) pushed to the highest settings alongside other visual tweaks, and utilising Apple's MetalFX upscaler for performance boosting, gameplay was capped at 30 FPS while running at 1440p. Bumping the resolution up to 4K saw a dip in frame rate to the low 20s, with MetalFX's performance mode bringing it up to around 25 FPS – still admittedly far from ideal, especially for a desktop setup. As observed during the test, running the game at 1080p with the lowest graphical settings was the only plausible way to hit the coveted 60 FPS mark, and even then, the frame rate wouldn't go past the low 50s in busier scenes. The issue seems to stem from forced ray tracing in Assassin's Creed Shadows , as further testing with a non-ray-traced title like 2023's Resident Evil 4 yielded smooth and consistent 60 FPS gameplay at 4K resolution and the highest settings. It should be noted that heavy-duty gaming on the Mac Studio with M4 Max isn't a priority for most, so its ability to handle 4K play with ease for non-ray-tracing-supported titles acts more like a nice by-the-way bonus. The unit will be a little warm to the touch in this state, though never too much that it feels unbearable or worrying. The other change here is the integration of Apple Intelligence as macOS Sequoia comes in handy for users who own multiple Apple devices, enabling them to move files, photos, and videos between their iPhone and Mac easily, and control or view their iPhone on a bigger display via iPhone Mirroring. Then, there's the mix of onboard and on-cloud tools that simplifies day-to-day tasks like writing emails, summarising text, fielding queries, and generating images that are also readily available on other offerings powered by the M-series processors. The enhanced Neural Engine and GPU, alongside the expanded memory on this year's Mac Studio, however, means these features are at their ripest stage. All things considered, there's a lot that this lean, mean rig does right. The M4 Max iteration may be the younger sibling, but it promises the same best-in-class performance and well-rounded functionality that have formed its core identity. On the flip side, the persistent drawback of limited customisation returns to dull its shine, with upgrade options tied to pre-purchase and a hefty cost. Case in point – at the starting price of S$2,899, the M4 Max model offers 36GB of unified memory and 512GB of SSD storage, locked down to a 14-core CPU, 32-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine. Opting for 1TB of storage requires an additional S$300, while the 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB options set users back by another S$900, S$1,800, and S$3,600 (from the base price), respectively. And all of this, without a display, or displays, that you have to spring for. RAM upgrades aren't counted in the equation, either. The 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU load-out configures 48GB of unified memory to 1TB of SSD, and can be bumped up to 64GB and 128GB, which are available as separate pricing options from the SSD selection. What it translates to is even more spending on top of an extra S$300 and S$1,500, respectively, potentially stacking to absurdly high amounts. Bear in mind that the Mac Studio cannot be taken apart and outfitted with more powerful internals a la normal PCs, so users will have to plan properly ahead of purchase and find the build that makes the most of their budget. Granted, it's unlikely for the regular Joe to upgrade this performance beast past a certain point, as the base M4 Max can already be overkill for everyday use. But for creative professionals and industry-grade work who can afford it, the Mac Studio remains the one to beat. Summary A worthy successor to the Mac Studio name, the M4 Max model continues to be proof that the best can always be better. Aesthetics - 8.5/10 Build Quality - 9/10 Performance - 9/10 Value - 8.5/10 Geek Satisfaction - 9/10 Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth's theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia's greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really. Apple Mac Studio Mac Studio M4 Max Review
Geeky Gadgets
23-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
M4 Max vs. M1 Mac Studio: The UPGRADE You NEED (or DON'T)?
The M4 Max Mac Studio introduces notable advancements in performance, memory capacity, and connectivity compared to its predecessor, the M1 Max Mac Studio. Designed to cater to power users with demanding workflows, the M4 Max offers significant improvements while the M1 Max remains a robust and reliable option for many users. The video below from Stephen Robles explores the key differences between these two models, focusing on their real-world applications in areas like video encoding, machine learning, and audio transcription, helping you decide whether an upgrade is worth considering. Watch this video on YouTube. Performance Comparison The M4 Max Mac Studio delivers a substantial performance boost over the M1 Max, particularly in tasks requiring high processing power. With a 16-core CPU and a 40-core GPU, the M4 Max is engineered to handle intensive workflows efficiently. Video Encoding: The M4 Max processes video compression tasks up to 30% faster than the M1 Max. This improvement translates to significant time savings for large projects, although smaller tasks may see only marginal benefits. Machine Learning: Applications such as AI model training and image upscaling benefit from the M4 Max's enhanced architecture and increased core count. These upgrades result in smoother operations and faster processing times, making it a strong choice for professionals in data science and AI development. Audio Transcription: The M4 Max excels in handling large audio files, reducing transcription times significantly. However, for moderate workloads, the M1 Max still provides reliable and efficient performance. For users with resource-intensive workflows, the M4 Max offers a clear advantage. However, if your tasks are less demanding, the M1 Max remains a dependable and capable performer. Hardware Upgrades The M4 Max introduces several hardware enhancements that cater to professionals working with memory- and storage-intensive applications, offering a more versatile and powerful system. Memory: The M4 Max supports up to 128GB of unified memory, doubling the M1 Max's 64GB limit. This increase is particularly beneficial for tasks such as 3D rendering, large-scale data analysis, and video editing involving high-resolution footage. Storage: With up to 8TB of SSD storage, the M4 Max quadruples the capacity of the M1 Max. This expanded storage is ideal for managing extensive project libraries, high-resolution video files, and other large datasets. Connectivity: The M4 Max features Thunderbolt 5 ports, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster data transfer speeds and more reliable wireless connections. These upgrades are especially valuable in collaborative environments or when working with high-bandwidth devices, such as external storage or multiple displays. While these improvements are significant, they primarily benefit users with specific, resource-heavy workflows. For general-purpose use, the M1 Max's hardware remains more than sufficient. Setup Process Setting up the M4 Max Mac Studio is a straightforward process, particularly for users already integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Using iCloud Drive for file synchronization simplifies the transition, making sure that your data and settings are readily available. For optimal performance, it is recommended to perform a clean install rather than relying on the migration assistant. This approach prevents the transfer of unnecessary files and settings, making sure a fresh and efficient system. Users upgrading from the M1 Max will find the transition seamless, as most peripherals and configurations remain fully compatible with the M4 Max. Port Configuration Both the M4 Max and M1 Max Mac Studio models share a versatile port layout, including Thunderbolt, USB-A, HDMI, and SD card slots. However, the M4 Max introduces Thunderbolt 5, which offers significantly faster data transfer rates. This improvement is particularly beneficial for users working with external storage devices, high-resolution displays, or other peripherals requiring high bandwidth. Despite the upgrade, the overall port configuration remains familiar, making sure ease of use for existing Mac Studio users. Real-World Use Cases The M4 Max Mac Studio excels in scenarios that demand high performance and efficiency. Below are some examples of its practical applications: Video Compression : Large video projects are processed more quickly, saving valuable time in post-production workflows. : Large video projects are processed more quickly, saving valuable time in post-production workflows. Machine Learning : Tasks such as AI model training and image upscaling benefit from the M4 Max's enhanced GPU cores and increased memory, allowing faster and more efficient results. : Tasks such as and benefit from the M4 Max's enhanced GPU cores and increased memory, allowing faster and more efficient results. Audio Transcription: The M4 Max handles lengthy audio files with speed and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for professionals working on interviews, podcasts, or video subtitles. For users with lighter workloads, the M1 Max remains a reliable option, offering solid performance for everyday tasks without the need for an upgrade. Cost and Value Deciding whether to upgrade from the M1 Max to the M4 Max depends on your specific needs and budget. When to Upgrade: The M4 Max is a compelling choice if your work involves memory-intensive tasks, large storage requirements, or frequent video encoding. Its enhanced performance and expanded capabilities provide excellent value for professionals in fields like video production, machine learning, and data analysis. When to Stay: If your current workflow is adequately supported by the M1 Max, there may be little reason to upgrade. The M1 Max remains a cost-effective and capable solution for general-purpose use and moderate workloads. Interestingly, the M4 Max offers better value than the more expensive M3 Ultra, which delivers higher specifications but at a significantly higher price point. For most users, the M4 Max strikes an ideal balance between performance and cost. Upgrade Considerations Before upgrading, carefully evaluate whether the M4 Max's additional performance and features align with your workflow. The M4 Max is particularly suited for professionals in video production, machine learning, and other resource-intensive fields. For general-purpose use, the M1 Max continues to deliver excellent performance and may not warrant an upgrade unless specific needs arise. The M4 Max Mac Studio represents a meaningful step forward in performance, memory, and connectivity, making it an excellent choice for demanding workflows. However, the M1 Max remains a highly capable machine, offering sufficient power for most users. If your work involves intensive tasks or requires additional memory and storage, the M4 Max is a worthwhile investment. For those with less demanding needs, the M1 Max continues to provide reliable and efficient performance, making sure it remains a strong contender in the Mac Studio lineup. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on M4 Max Mac Studio. Source & Image Credit: Stephen Robles Filed Under: Apple, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. 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Engadget
07-05-2025
- Business
- Engadget
Apple's M4 Mac mini is more than $100 off at Amazon
Apple's latest diminutive desktop, the M4 Mac mini, is on sale via Amazon for more than $100 off . That brings the price of the entry-level model down to just $495. This version includes 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. The 16GB/512GB model costs $743 and the 24GB/512GB model is down to $906 . Even some of the versions with the slightly more powerful M4 Max chip are on sale . The M4 Mac mini is a nice little upgrade. We called it "shockingly small" and "incredibly powerful" in our official review of the Pro model. Both of those descriptors stand. The mini is still cute and teensy and the M4 chip is still more than enough for everyday computing tasks and fully capable of more intensive applications. This is close to a record-low price. $495 at Amazon There are some front-facing USB-C ports, which is always handy with a desktop, and support for up to three external displays. Even the entry-level version offers 16GB of RAM, which is great. The chip is faster than ever, making this an extremely budget-friendly way to get in on the Apple Silicon party. There are a few more USB-C ports on the back, which is useful, but this unit offers no USB-A ports. The 256GB of storage offered by the base model could get a bit tight, but it's certainly doable for more casual users. Plus, those ports are always available for an external SSD. One curious design choice here is that the power button is along the bottom of the rear end. This can lead to some awkward movements when trying to turn it on, as it basically has to be tipped over. Otherwise, this is a great device. Check out our coverage of the best Apple deals for more discounts, and follow @EngadgetDeals on X for the latest tech deals and buying advice.
Mint
05-05-2025
- Mint
MacBook Pro M5 launch: What we expect from the next refresh
If you're in the market for a new MacBook Pro, you have the option of the MacBook Pro with the M4 chip. The series is powered by the M4 line of chips, including the base M4, the M4 Pro, and the M4 Max. However, if you're not in a hurry, you may want to wait for the rumoured next-generation MacBook Pro refresh, which could debut as soon as later this year. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, this launch is mostly confirmed. Wondering what this new series of MacBooks might bring to the table? Here's a quick wrap of what reports have said so far. The MacBook Pro expected later this year is likely to be powered by the upcoming M5 series of chips This would naturally follow the M4 models currently available. As for which versions of the M5 Apple might launch, such as the M5 Pro or M5 Max, remains to be seen. However, given Apple's previous release patterns, including with the M4 series, it wouldn't be surprising to see these variants arrive. Reports suggest Apple could be saving a significant redesign or an OLED display upgrade for 2026. The Elec also reported this in February, making it more than likely that this year's model will be another incremental refresh, much like the past couple of generations. So, while the OLED MacBook Pro could become a reality in 2026, the M5-powered MacBook Pros may continue to ship with the current Liquid Retina XDR display. Even the base version of the MacBook Pro with the entry-level M4 chip now includes 16GB of unified memory. With Apple Intelligence set to be a core part of future products, 16GB of unified memory will likely remain a consistent inclusion in the MacBook M5 as well. Mark Gurman suggests that the MacBook Pro M5 refresh could arrive around the same timeframe as the M4 generation did, meaning a potential launch in October to November 2025. So, if you're currently using an older MacBook Pro, don't need an urgent upgrade, and can wait for the next major model, it may be worth holding out until then. First Published: 5 May 2025, 08:25 PM IST
Fox News
30-04-2025
- Business
- Fox News
AirPods, MacBooks, Apple Watches up to 30% off on Amazon
Apple has several deals available right now on certain Apple products like the new iPad, the 2025 MacBook Air, and the Apple Watch. We've rounded up some more popular products at the best prices. You'll find great deals on Amazon right now, which features significant discounts on Apple AirPods, AirTags and Apple Watches. You can also find some fantastic deals on laptops. If you're not a Prime member, sign up or start a free trial to access exclusive deals. Prime membership costs $139 annually or $14.99 per month – and if you're a student, don't forget to take advantage of the special pricing discounts on Prime membership. Here are eight too-good-to-pass-up deals available on Amazon: Original price: $249 Apple AirPods Pro 2 wireless Earbuds feature pro-level noise cancellation, adaptive audio, transparency mode and personalized spatial audio. The headphones offer a scientifically validated hearing test and clinical-grade hearing aid capability. You can also grab these earbuds on sale for $169 at Walmart. Original price: $99 Keep track of your valuables with Apple AirTags. These small, coin-shaped Bluetooth trackers attach to items like keys, bags or wallets, helping you locate them with the Find My app or your iPhone or iPad. The sale price is for a pack of four AirTags on Amazon. Walmart is also running a sale on the AirTags four-pack for $79.98. Original price: $449 Get a discount on the new Apple iPad 11-inch, which features an A16 chip, Liquid Retina display, and 256GB of storage. The powerful chip can improve performance for everyday tasks, gaming and creative applications. This iPad has ample space for apps, photos, videos and other files. Original price: $1,498 It's a perfect time to grab a Mac Mini M4 Pro, with $200 off for a great bargain. This is one of the most powerful Apple mini desktops you can find, and its power and efficiency will surely impress. It is designed for tasks like coding, content creation and gaming and has 24GB of unified memory. Amazon's price includes two years of AppleCare. Original price: $1,198 The Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13.6-inch laptop is powered by Apple's new M4 chip, which offers enhanced performance and efficiency. The M4 chip increases speed and fluidity for tasks like navigating between different apps, editing videos or playing games. The laptop offers up to 18 hours of battery life. This model has 16GB of unified memory and three years of AppleCare. Buy it on sale without AppleCare for $849 on B&H Photo Video. Original price: $3,478 Save nearly $300 on the powerful and efficient 2024 MacBook Pro with M4 Max, 14-core CPU. It offers significant performance improvements over previous models, especially for intensive tasks like video editing, graphics work and coding. If you want to upgrade, this model's M4 Max chip delivers a substantial boost in CPU and GPU performance compared to the M3 Max, with some benchmarks showing up to 20% to 28% faster performance. Original price: $608 Apple's over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max in white, are more than a trend. These over-ear headphones use six outward-facing microphones to detect noise in your environment and two inward-facing microphones to measure what you're hearing. They feature high-fidelity audio, active noise cancellation, and spatial audio with dynamic head tracking. For more deals, visit Original price: $399 Grab the Apple Series 10 watch with GPS smartwatch on sale. The watch features a built-in barometric altimeter that provides accurate real-time elevation gain/descent information and your current elevation. It also has a water temperature sensor that shares information about your swim workouts and a depth sensor.
