Buy M2 MacBook Pro or wait for M3? | ENBLE
Buy M2 MacBook Pro or wait for M3? | ENBLE
The M2 MacBook Pro: A Temporary Solution
It’s been over a year since the M2 chip was announced, making its debut in the 13-inch MacBook Pro and 13-inch MacBook Air. With rumors swirling about the impending release of the M3 chip, potential buyers are left questioning whether it’s better to wait or invest in the current MacBook Pro models.
The M2 MacBook Pro of Today
The M2 MacBook Pro lineup currently offers three sizes: 13-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch. But don’t be mistaken, these models aren’t simply distinguished by screen size alone. The 13-inch MacBook Pro lacks the options available in its larger counterparts, the M2 Pro and M2 Max. Furthermore, it retains an older design, lacks a mini-LED screen, has a lower-resolution webcam, and features significantly fewer ports. In short, it’s a laptop that most people should avoid. For the purpose of this discussion, we will focus on the superior 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros.
The current 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros are exceptional machines, delivering outstanding performance with surprisingly quiet operation and long-lasting battery life. These models boast some of the best displays available on the market. However, it’s important to note that the M2 MacBook Pros are essentially identical to their M1 counterparts. The redesign of the chassis occurred with the first-generation M1 models launched in 2021, and the major improvements are already present in those machines. Even the performance gap between the M1 and M2 chips isn’t as significant as one might expect. In other words, these MacBook Pros remain an excellent purchase today, particularly if you can find a good deal on one.
If your work doesn’t demand cutting-edge performance, I would actually recommend considering a used or refurbished M1 MacBook Pro with either the M1 Pro or M1 Max. It offers a better value for your money. However, if you’re eagerly anticipating a substantial performance leap, the M3 might just be worth the wait.
Why the M3 Could Be a Game Changer
As previously mentioned, the M2 chip didn’t deliver the groundbreaking performance leap that many had hoped for. This is primarily due to the fact that it was built on the same TSMC 5nm node as the M1. While the M2 does have a different core configuration and higher clock speeds, the performance improvements come at the cost of increased heat production.
On the other hand, the M3 is shaping up to be a true evolutionary step in Apple Silicon. It is rumored to be built on the TSMC 3nm process (also known as N3E), offering an actual boost in transistor count and efficiency. While details are scarce at this point, it’s safe to expect a more substantial increase in performance. It remains to be seen if Apple has any other surprises in store for these MacBook Pros, but you can at least count on the promised performance gains.
However, it’s important to note that the M3 MacBook Pros (14-inch and 16-inch) are unlikely to launch until at least spring 2024, and there’s a chance it could be even later. So, while waiting for these MacBook Pros might be tempting, it might not be feasible to delay your purchase for that long.
If you’re upgrading from an older Intel-based MacBook or a dated PC in general, you will be amazed by the speed and efficiency of even the M1 MacBook Pros. Unless you’re comfortable waiting for six months to a year, I recommend considering a purchase sooner rather than later.
In conclusion, the M2 MacBook Pros available today are impressive machines that offer a superb user experience. However, for those who are looking for a substantial performance boost and can afford to wait, the upcoming M3 MacBook Pros hold the promise of delivering an even more powerful and efficient computing experience. Ultimately, the decision to buy now or wait for the future lies in your specific needs and level of patience.
