Apple Unveils Updated Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra Chips
Apple has announced a significant update to its Mac Studio line, introducing new models featuring the M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips. This marks the first refresh for the Mac Studio in over 18 months, bringing substantial performance improvements to the compact desktop computer.
The new Mac Studio models are now available for preorder on Apple’s website, with a release date set for March 12th. Pricing starts at $1,999 for the M4 Max configuration and $3,999 for the M3 Ultra version.
The base M4 Max Mac Studio boasts impressive performance gains, offering up to 3.5 times faster processing than the original M1 Max version. It features a 14- to 16-core CPU and a 32- to 40-core GPU. Memory options start at 36GB and can be expanded up to 128GB, while storage begins at 512GB SSD and is upgradeable to 8TB.
For power users, the M3 Ultra Mac Studio pushes the boundaries even further. It comes equipped with up to 32 CPU cores, including 24 performance cores. The GPU starts with a 60-core configuration and can be maxed out at 80 cores. The Neural Engine, crucial for machine learning and AI tasks, features 32 cores. RAM options begin at 96GB and can be expanded to a whopping 512GB, while storage starts at 1TB and is upgradeable to 16.
Both models incorporate advanced GPU features, including dynamic caching for reduced latency, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and a second-generation ray-tracing engine, enhancing content creation and gaming capabilities.
The Mac Studio’s design remains unchanged, retaining its compact, square-ish silver box form factor. The front panel houses two USB-C ports and an SD Card slot, while the back features four USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, ethernet, audio ports, and a power button.
Notably, the M3 Ultra model includes Thunderbolt 5 connections on all six of its USB-C ports, while the M4 Max version limits Thunderbolt 5 to the four rear ports only.
This update to the Mac Studio line reinforces Apple’s commitment to providing high-performance computing solutions in a compact form factor, catering to professionals and power users across various industries.
