As we approach the midpoint of 2021, tech enthusiasts are eagerly looking forward to the launch of Apple’s upcoming Mac Pro and Studio models. However, recent reports indicate that fans might have to wait a bit longer than anticipated, with analysts now predicting that these cutting-edge devices won’t be equipped with the M4 chip until mid-2025. While this delay may be disappointing to many, Apple’s track record of delivering high-quality products suggests that the wait could be well worth it in the end. Let’s explore what we currently know about the Mac Pro and Studio, as well as what we can anticipate from these innovative gadgets once they finally make their debut.
Upcoming Chip Upgrades:
The Mac Studio and Mac Pro are not expected to receive an upgrade to Apple’s M4 chip until the middle of next year. This means that both machines will continue to operate on Apple’s M2 generation this year, with the exception of the MacBook Air. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, by 2024, all of Apple’s laptops (excluding the MacBook Air) will transition to the M4 chip that was recently introduced in the iPad Pro. Interestingly, this staggered chip upgrade cycle means that the iPad Pro currently holds the crown for single-core performance among Apple’s lineup, a title it is likely to maintain for another year compared to the Mac Studio and Mac Pro.
Performance Comparison:
In Geekbench comparisons, the iPad Pro consistently outperforms the M2 Ultra chip by approximately 25%. Even the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro is roughly on par with the M2 Ultra in terms of single-core CPU power. However, the M2 Ultra still surpasses both chips when it comes to multi-core performance, which is crucial for overall performance. Despite this, the M1 Max Mac Studio falls slightly behind the iPad Pro in multi-core performance metrics.
Future Expectations:
While these comparisons may seem trivial, it’s important to note that the current Mac Studios and Mac Pros are formidable machines that offer more RAM, additional ports, and better thermal performance compared to the iPad Pro. They also do not face software limitations that hinder their hardware capabilities. High-end Mac users are accustomed to waiting for significant upgrades, and while the wait may be long, many will undoubtedly appreciate the improvements once they arrive.
