Apple has unveiled an upgraded Mac Studio featuring the M3 Ultra and M4 Max chips, generating excitement among tech enthusiasts. The M3 Ultra, with a 32-core CPU, excels in multi-core tasks, while the M4 Max, with a 16-core configuration, shines in single-core performance. Differences in manufacturing technology affect efficiency, and the M3 Ultra offers greater GPU capacity and memory bandwidth, making it ideal for graphics-intensive tasks. Choosing between them depends on specific workload needs.
Apple Introduces the New Mac Studio with M3 Ultra and M4 Max Chips
This week, Apple has officially launched an upgraded version of its Mac Studio, featuring two impressive chip options: the M3 Ultra and the M4 Max. This announcement has stirred excitement among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Understanding the Power of M3 Ultra vs. M4 Max
On paper, the M3 Ultra claims to be a formidable powerhouse, boasting speeds that can be up to twice as fast as the M4 Max for specific tasks. However, a recent evaluation reported by 9to5Mac reveals that the performance gap between these two chips may not be as significant as it seems. So, what truly sets these chips apart?
Firstly, the M3 Ultra is equipped with a robust 32-core CPU, designed to tackle demanding tasks with ease. In contrast, the M4 Max features a more lightweight 16-core configuration, yet it offers impressive efficiency. According to a Geekbench 6 assessment, which evaluates processor performance, the M3 Ultra achieved a score of 3221 in single-core performance and 27749 in multi-core performance. Meanwhile, the M4 Max scored 3921 in single-core and 25650 in multi-core tests.
The outcome? While the M4 Max excels in quick, single-core tasks, the M3 Ultra takes a slight edge in multi-core scenarios, showcasing just an 8% performance difference in favor of the M3 Ultra.
So, why are these performance metrics so closely matched? To find the answer, we need to delve into the manufacturing details. The M3 chips, including the M3 Ultra, are produced using first-generation “3-nanometer” technology, similar to that of the recent iPhone A17 Pro. This technology provides solid performance but may feel somewhat outdated. Conversely, the M4 chips leverage an enhanced version of this technology, resulting in higher efficiency. This means that although the M4 Max has fewer cores, they operate at a faster individual speed.
However, it’s important to note that the Geekbench test primarily focuses on CPU performance, which is just one aspect of a chip’s capabilities. Each chip also contains a GPU (graphics processing unit) and a neural processing unit (NPU), both crucial for handling tasks in 2025 and beyond.
The M4 Max can support up to 40 graphics cores, while the M3 Ultra can accommodate up to 80. This disparity can significantly impact performance in demanding tasks like 4K video editing or high-end gaming. Additionally, the M3 Ultra boasts superior memory bandwidth (800 GB/s compared to 500 GB/s), making it an excellent choice for professionals who handle large files regularly.
M3 Ultra or M4 Max: Which Should You Choose?
So, who would benefit most from the new Mac Studio? If your tasks are relatively straightforward—such as coding, web browsing, or managing spreadsheets—the M4 Max is a stellar option. It provides nearly identical CPU performance to the M3 Ultra while being priced significantly lower.
On the flip side, if your work involves complex graphic projects like 3D animation or video rendering, the M3 Ultra’s enhanced GPU capabilities may be worth the investment. Ultimately, the choice between these two models should align with your specific needs rather than just the numbers.
As for the absence of an M4 Ultra chip in this release, some speculate that Apple is reserving this variant for an upcoming generation of the Mac Pro, aiming to further distinguish it from the Mac Studio.
In conclusion, Apple’s latest Mac Studio offerings are designed to cater to a range of professionals, ensuring that both the M3 Ultra and M4 Max deliver exceptional performance tailored to different needs.