Mac Studio Updated: M4 Max & M3 Ultra Chips

Apple Introduces Updated Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra Options

Alongside the unveiling of a new MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip, Apple has released an updated Mac Studio on Wednesday. This desktop computer is specifically designed for professional users demanding peak performance capabilities.

Pricing and Availability

The Mac Studio has a starting price of $1,999. Pre-orders are currently being accepted, with availability in Apple Stores beginning Wednesday, March 12.

Chip Choices: M4 Max vs. M3 Ultra

A unique aspect of the new Mac Studio is the choice between two powerful chips: the M4 Max and the M3 Ultra. This allows users to select the processor that best aligns with their specific workflow requirements.

Understanding the M-Series Chip Hierarchy

Despite the numbering, the M3 Ultra represents the newest addition to Apple’s silicon lineup. Within Apple’s naming convention, the “Ultra” designation signifies a higher level of performance than the “Max” version, which, in turn, surpasses the “Pro” version in power.

The M3 Ultra: A Deep Dive

The M3 Ultra is built upon the M3 architecture. Apple utilizes its UltraFusion technology to combine two M3 Max dies into a single, unified M3 Ultra chip. The company claims this results in up to twice the performance compared to the M2 Ultra.

Apple asserts that the M3 Ultra is its most powerful chip to date.

Technical Specifications of the M3 Ultra

This chip boasts a 32-core CPU, comprised of 24 performance cores and eight efficiency cores. It also features the largest GPU ever integrated into an Apple chip, offering up to 80 graphics cores. The M3 Ultra contains a total of 184 billion transistors.

Comparing M4 Max and M3 Ultra Performance

The M4 Max is equipped with a 14-core CPU, including 10 performance cores and four efficiency cores, alongside a 32-core GPU. Although based on a newer architecture, the M3 Ultra is projected to deliver significantly greater performance than the M4 Max.

Base Configurations and Customization

The base model with the M4 Max, featuring 36GB of unified memory and 512GB of storage, is priced at $1,999. The M3 Ultra configuration starts at $3,999 and includes 96GB of unified memory and 1TB of storage.

These are merely the starting points; both the M4 Max and M3 Ultra models can be customized with increased memory and storage options.

Expanded Configuration Options

The Mac Studio provides extensive configuration possibilities, exceeding the limitations often encountered when customizing a Mac Mini. Users can configure their Mac Studio with up to 512GB of RAM and 16TB of storage.

Design and Port Selection

The external design of the Mac Studio remains consistent with the previous generation. The majority of ports are located on the rear panel, offering comprehensive connectivity.

You’ll find four Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-A ports for compatibility with older devices, an HDMI port, and a 10GB Ethernet port. A standard 3.5mm headphone jack is also included.

Notably, the power button remains conveniently accessible on the back of the device, unlike the Mac Mini.

Front Panel Connectivity

The front of the computer features an SD card slot and two additional USB-C ports. On models equipped with the M4 Max, these ports are standard USB-C. However, on M3 Ultra configurations, these ports are full-fledged Thunderbolt 5 ports.

Display Support

A Mac Studio powered by the M3 Ultra can support up to eight 6K displays or four 8K displays. This capability makes it ideal for users who require extensive multi-monitor setups.