THE Apple M-Series: Which One Do You Actually Need?
On November 10, 2020, Apple made an announcement that shook the PC world, and since then, things have never been the same. Prior to this announcement, Apple had relied on Intel for the processors that powered its MacBook lineup; the laptops were initially powered by Nvidia graphics cards and later AMD, with many of the budget options getting slightly boosted versions of Intel’s integrated graphics units.
Well, Apple announced the Apple M1 chip in November 2020, and in so doing, they started a revolution that has significantly influenced the market and may have inspired the recently released ARM-based Snapdragon Elite processors for Windows PC (but this is a story for another day, we promise you).
The Apple M processor lineup combines raw power with class-leading and unprecedented levels of efficiency—the MacBook can run for hours without needing to be plugged in. There is virtually no performance difference between when it is plugged in or running on battery, making it great for power users who like to be on the move.
It's been over three years since THAT announcement and the M series is now in its third iteration (not counting the “Pro,” “Max,” and “Ultra” versions). If you are considering getting a new PC and trying to decide on which MacBook to get, we've got you covered. Come closer!
The Value Champion: M1
The M1 may be the first generation, but it's still a powerhouse for everyday tasks. If you primarily use your MacBook for browsing, email, basic photo editing, or streaming, the M1 offers fantastic performance at a more affordable price. You'll also find M1 MacBooks in a wider range of models, including the MacBook Air and the entry-level MacBook Pro.
M1 Perfect for:
- Students and casual users
- Web browsing, email, and document editing
- Basic photo editing and streaming
Looking for More Muscle? M2
The M2 steps up the game with a performance boost, particularly for graphics-intensive tasks. Content creators who do light video editing, gamers who play moderately demanding titles, and coders who work with complex projects will appreciate the extra power. The M2 is also available in a wider variety of configurations, allowing you to tailor RAM and storage to your needs.
M2 Perfect for:
- Content creators (light video editing)
- Gamers (moderately demanding titles)
- Coders (complex projects)
- Users who want a future-proof option
The Cutting Edge: M3
The M3 boasts the latest and greatest in Apple silicon. If you're a professional video editor working with demanding 4K or 8K footage, a 3D artist rendering complex models, or a musician running large sample libraries, the M3 offers the most power and efficiency. Keep in mind, the M3 currently comes at a premium price and is only available in select MacBook Pro models.
M3 Perfect for:
- Professional video editors (4K/8K editing)
- 3D artists and animators
- Musicians (large sample libraries)
- Developers working on demanding projects
These are summarised overview of each lineup but whichever one you decide to get, rest assured, you are getting Apple engineering at its finest. If you already have any Apple devices, including the iPhone, Apple Watch, Apple AirPods, etc., the MacBook offers some ecosystem benefits that will further enhance your experience.
