The 16-inch MacBook Pro: Is It the Right Choice for You?

Being creative on the move has never been easier, thanks to the capabilities of Apple silicon, though it does come with a significant price tag.

A Mac for Everyone

The latest MacBook Pros are arguably among the finest Macs Apple has ever created. The introduction of Apple silicon marked a pivotal moment for the Mac lineup. Whether you prefer the lightweight MacBook Air, boasting extraordinary battery life, or the robust MacBook Pro, Apple silicon has finally delivered the Macs we’ve always desired. However, such impressive performance and features come with a steep price. This raises the question: who are these machines intended for?

Glimpsing the Future

In November 2020, Apple launched the M series chips, their first ARM-based processors, with the Mac mini, MacBook Air, and 13-inch MacBook Pro being the initial recipients. As these Macs began appearing outside Apple’s carefully curated events, it became clear that Apple was unveiling something incredibly special—a new era in laptop and desktop computing.

Not one to rest on its achievements, Apple introduced a vibrant lineup of iMacs in May, showcasing quiet, fast, and powerful machines that received rave reviews. However, this was just the beginning of a remarkable journey.

Unleashing Potential

As 2021 came to a close, Apple demonstrated what its silicon could truly achieve with the unveiling of the Pro and Max versions. The MacBook Pros were the first to benefit from these advanced chips.

Suddenly, the range of Apple silicon Macs expanded, offering options from a £700 Mac mini to a £1000 M1 MacBook Air, culminating in the 13-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch MacBook Pros starting at £1349. Surely, most users would opt for the MacBook Pro, given its top-tier performance and the prestigious "Pro" label. But does that mean it's suitable for everyone?

Work Style Matters

Earlier this year, I purchased an M1 Max MacBook Pro, which was a journey in itself. After months of deliberation, I chose a laptop as my primary work device, transitioning from a 2010 21-inch iMac and a beloved 27-inch 5K iMac. The latter was custom-built to meet my needs and served me well. However, as my workload increased, I found myself waiting too long for file renders and exports, prompting me to consider the benefits of Apple silicon and the powerful M1 chips.

If you're contemplating a switch to Apple silicon, rest assured that everything you've heard is accurate. However, it's crucial to make your choices wisely, as this is a significant investment.

Just before finalizing my order, the release of the M1 Max, Pro, and Ultra Mac Studios complicated my decision. I had to weigh the benefits of a desktop versus a laptop.

My work habits have evolved; I now operate from multiple locations rather than a single workstation. While the Mac Studio was appealing, I ultimately chose the MacBook Pro, complemented by the new Mac Studio Display. This setup allowed me to enjoy a large 5K display while retaining the flexibility to work anywhere using the 16-inch MacBook Pro's impressive screen.

My ordering experience was a tale in itself, marred by Apple's post-COVID supply chain issues. As I write this, it seems the situation has improved somewhat.

A Heavyweight Performer

While the M1 Max MacBook Pro can be mobile, there are several factors to consider before taking it on the go. The first is its weight; this laptop is hefty, and you will definitely feel it if you place it in a backpack. I see my MacBook Pro more as a portable desktop rather than a truly lightweight laptop.

Most nights, I leave the MacBook in my studio, as I don’t typically need it while at home. The less frequently I move it, the better it is for both the device and myself. If an urgent task arises, I have an old iMac and an M2 MacBook Air available.

The weight of the MacBook Pro, combined with its cost, also impacts its portability. At £1349 for the base 13-inch model, the price is already quite high, with the 14-inch starting at £1899 and the 16-inch at £2399. Carrying a £2000 machine in your bag feels like transporting something valuable—because it is!

Screen and Keyboard

I absolutely love my Studio Display, but the MacBook Pro’s screen is even better. It features a Liquid XDR display with peak brightness at 1600 nits, and sustained brightness at 1000 nits. The ProMotion technology ensures a smooth experience with no noticeable lag when switching between apps or scrolling.

The vibrant colors and depth on the display are breathtaking, making even mundane tasks feel special. This MacBook marked a return to customer-focused design for Apple, as evidenced by the much-anticipated backlit keyboard, restoring the full-height function keys that many users missed.

Appreciating the Design

The squared-off design of the MacBook appeals to me greatly, and it is consistent across the MacBook Air lineup. The trackpad is perfectly positioned for comfortable extended typing, without cutting into your wrists.

Given its weight, a more delicate design would have appeared awkward. The MacBook Pro's robust styling matches its performance as a workhorse, and it holds up well against wear and tear.

The attention to detail extends to the debossed logo on the underside, which, unfortunately, often goes unnoticed.

Listening to Feedback

Apple rarely admits mistakes, but the features included in this MacBook suggest they are listening. The return of the function keys, along with an SD card reader and HDMI port, signifies a shift back to a more practical design. The days of overly slim devices are gone, with the MacBook Pro now embodying the creative powerhouse it was always meant to be.

Completing the Experience

The 1080p camera is satisfactory, enhanced by Ventura’s Continuity Camera feature. The speakers are exceptional, and the microphones perform well for most video calls, with noise reduction capabilities.

Options to Consider

When investing in such an expensive machine, it’s wise to choose your specifications carefully. This MacBook is likely to be a long-term purchase, so it’s important to invest wisely.

Memory and storage are critical considerations. I opted for the M1 Max chip, even though my workflow could have been supported by the M1 Pro. After six months of intensive work with Photoshop, Audition, and Premiere, memory hasn’t been an issue. For most users, 16GB of RAM should suffice, but I chose 32GB for future-proofing.

Storage often sparks debate. While external options exist, I prefer the speed of onboard SSD storage. My previous iMac, after seven years, still has ample free space. However, since my current work involves daily video editing, I decided to prioritize storage and opted for 4TB, which has proven to be one of my best decisions.

Is the MacBook Right for You?

Perhaps not. As we await the release of the Mac Pro, these MacBooks may not suit everyone. The “Pro” label comes with a premium price. Assess your needs realistically to avoid being drawn into the Pro category unnecessarily. If your current setup is already stretched to its limits, then the MacBook Pro could be the right fit.

However, the performance of Apple silicon across the board means that a more affordable option might serve you just as well, leaving you with extra budget for an M2 MacBook Air.

My entry-level Air has been fantastic. Even with 24GB of memory and 2TB of storage, it’s priced at £2549 and delivers quickly. You can’t go wrong with Apple silicon, whether desktop or laptop. Now, more than ever, there’s a Mac that will meet your needs. Choose wisely, future-proof your investment, and enjoy it for years to come.

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Listen to the soundtrack that inspired this article. I wrote this while listening to [The Very Best of Rufus feat. Chaka Khan](https://music.apple.com/gb/album/the-very-best-of-rufus-feat-chaka-khan/1440757180).

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Originally published at [Talking Tech and Audio](https://talkingtechandaudio.com) on November 28, 2022.