Assessment: Apple MacBook Pro (14-Inch, 2021) A powerhouse designed for creators, boasting ample ports.
Rating: 8/10
WIRED
- Exceptional performance.
- Stunning, spacious display with ProMotion.
- Robust industrial build.
- Expanded port options.
- Reintroduction of MagSafe.
- Touch Bar replaced with physical keys.
- Upgraded 1080p webcam.
- Touch ID functionality.
TIRED
- High price point.
- Absence of USB-A port.
- Relatively heavy.
- Lack of Face ID.
- Subpar battery life.
In the realm of laptops, Apple’s MacBook Pro series has served as a crucible for innovation, often with mixed results. Over the past six years, these premium devices grappled with issues like the controversial Butterfly keyboard, the divisive Touch Bar, and a notable dearth of ports. Coupled with performance glitches and lackluster battery endurance, these factors tarnished the MacBook Pro’s reputation.
Enter the latest 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros, heralding a resurgence of hope. Packed with numerous firsts—such as expanded display sizes, customizable chipsets, and a notch housing a 1080p webcam—these models also mark the return of essential features like increased port selection, MagSafe charging, physical function keys, and enhanced battery life. With these updates, the MacBook Pro once again emerges as a compelling option for creative professionals.
However, the sticker shock may give pause. Starting at $2,000 and climbing to a staggering $5,900 for the highest configuration of the 14-inch model, these laptops demand a hefty investment. Yet, for users clinging to aging 2015 MacBook Pros or seeking robust features like HDMI ports, the new MacBook Pro justifies its premium price tag.
Customizable Powerhouses
Apple’s latest MacBook Pro lineup introduces two new chipsets: the M1 Pro and the M1 Max, signaling a departure from Intel-powered laptops. These proprietary chips, surpassing the previous year’s M1 in performance, offer users a spectrum of customization options, including RAM, GPU cores, and storage capacity upgrades. Configuring these components depends heavily on intended usage, with most users benefiting from a memory upgrade to 32 GB.
For instance, my review unit—a 14-inch MacBook Pro equipped with the M1 Max, featuring a 10-core CPU, 32-core GPU, 64 GB of unified memory, and a 2-terabyte SSD—exceeded my needs as a casual user. For tasks like word processing, web browsing, and video conferencing, the device excelled without straining its resources.
To assist users in selecting the optimal configuration, our Best MacBooks guide provides detailed recommendations. In general, the base M1 chip suffices for most users, while the M1 Pro caters to those requiring enhanced performance, especially for resource-intensive applications like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. The M1 Max targets professionals engaged in activities like video editing or 3D modeling, albeit at a higher price point.
Subtle Refinement
While boasting several groundbreaking features, the latest MacBook Pro models retain their distinctive Apple aesthetic. Notable refinements include a slightly boxier chassis with squared-off corners reminiscent of the latest iPad Mini and iPhone 13, complemented by an all-black keyboard.
The 14-inch variant features a larger 14.2-inch display within a compact form factor, striking a balance between screen real estate and portability. However, for users deliberating between the 14- and 16-inch models, the latter’s considerable size difference is unmistakable.
The transition to Mini LED panels enhances the visual experience, delivering deeper blacks and vibrant colors. ProMotion technology further elevates display performance by doubling the refresh rate to 120 frames per second, resulting in smoother transitions and fluid interactions. Although the presence of a notch housing the webcam garners attention, it seamlessly integrates into the menu bar without obstructing screen space. Notably, the upgraded 1080p webcam delivers crisp images even in low-light conditions.
Return of Essential Features
The removal of the controversial Touch Bar in favor of physical function keys represents a welcome change. Additionally, the reintroduction of a diverse port selection—including three USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, an SD card slot, a headphone jack, and MagSafe charging—addresses longstanding user concerns. However, the absence of a USB-A port may inconvenience some users, necessitating dongles for peripheral connectivity.
Powerful Performance
Powered by the M1 Max chipset, the MacBook Pro excels in everyday tasks, effortlessly handling multitasking and demanding applications. During stress tests involving video editing and photo manipulation, the device exhibited remarkable performance with minimal fan noise. Feedback from professional video creators underscores the MacBook Pro’s potential as a portable workstation, rivaling the performance of desktop counterparts like the Mac Pro.
While gaming capabilities are commendable, battery life remains a concern. Despite Apple’s claim of up to 17 hours of video playback, real-world usage scenarios reveal shorter battery endurance, especially under heavy workloads. Although the device supports fast charging, power-hungry tasks necessitate frequent recharging, limiting mobility for power users.
Verdict
The 2021 MacBook Pro lineup represents a compelling blend of innovation and refinement, catering to the diverse needs of creative professionals. Despite its premium price tag, these laptops deliver exceptional performance, versatility, and portability. While battery life may disappoint under intensive usage, the overall package—replete with customizable options and essential features—positions the MacBook Pro as a formidable contender in the laptop market.
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