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Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£3,260
Avg. price in US: ~$3,100
PassMark benchmark result: 26851
N. of physical cores: 12
CPU boost clock speed: 3.7 GHz

Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.5

Good

6.5

Good

?

7.1
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
8.0
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
8.2
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.7
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
9.0
L3 cache
8.0%
5.1
N. of physical cores
6.2
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
6.8
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
5.1
N. of physical cores
20.0%
4.0
CPU threads
15.0%
9.0
L3 cache

No image

No image

Best prices in UK

N/A~ £3,260

Best rankings

#160 in Best Mobile CPUs

Verdict

The Apple M2 Max with a 12-core CPU (8 performance and 4 efficiency cores) and a 38-core GPU is a high-performance system-on-a-chip built on second-generation 5-nanometer technology. It features 67 billion transistors, a 16-core Neural Engine, and a massive 400GB/s memory bandwidth supporting up to 96GB of unified memory. Key strengths include industry-leading performance per watt, exceptional graphics speeds for 8K video editing and 3D rendering, and an advanced media engine with dual ProRes encode/decode engines that maintain high efficiency even on battery power. However, main drawbacks include high entry costs, the lack of user-accessible hardware upgrades after purchase, and performance that may be unnecessary overkill for users not engaged in intensive professional workflows.

Technical Specifications of processor Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu

Overall score

6.5

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?

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.

Platform

6.4

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Apple

Processor type

What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.

When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

CPU socket

What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.

When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Chipset

What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.

When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

CPU architecture

What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.

When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

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Performance

6.2

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N. of physical cores

What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.

When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

CPU threads

What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.

When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

Threads per core

What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.

When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

CPU boost clock speed

What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.

When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

CPU base clock speed

What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.

When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Cache & Architecture

7.0

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Semiconductor size

What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.

When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

Foundry

What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.

When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

L3 cache

What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.

When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

?

L2 cache

What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.

When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

L1 cache

What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.

When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

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Memory & PCIe

7.2

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DDR memory version

What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.

When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

Maximum memory speed

What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

Max memory speed (JEDEC)

What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.

When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)

What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.

When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

N/A

Maximum memory capacity

What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

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Integrated Graphics

9.1

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Integrated graphics

What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.

When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

Integrated GPU model

What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.

When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Integrated GPU execution units

What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.

When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

?

Integrated GPU base frequency

What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.

When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

?

Integrated media encoders/decoders

What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.

When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

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Power & Thermal

6.1

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TDP (Thermal design power)

What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.

When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

Base power (PL1)

What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.

When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

?

Boost power (PL2)

What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.

When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

?

Tau (power duration limit)

What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.

When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A

Configurable TDP

What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.

When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

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Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu vs the average processor

Why is Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu better than the average processor?

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66.7% better single-core performance
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,139 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >3200
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,139 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.4,139 vs 2,483
90.6% higher single-core score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,804 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >2000
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,804 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,804 vs 1,471
3.11x higher multi-core score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,906 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >8500
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,906 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.14,906 vs 4,793
14.4x larger L2 cache
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (36 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=6 MB
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (36 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.36 MB vs 2.5 MB
2.55x higher PassMark score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (26,851 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >19000
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (26,851 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.26,851 vs 10,532.5
6 more CPU cores
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: 8+
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.12 vs 6
8.73x higher memory bandwidth
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (400 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
What it is: The maximum theoretical memory bandwidth the processor can support.
When it matters: When memory-heavy workloads matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >75 GB/s
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (400 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.400 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s
2.18x higher memory speed
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=4800 MHz
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.6400 MHz vs 2933 MHz
Includes crypto acceleration
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
Supports HMP
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports HMP, the average processor does not.
3 year/s newer release date
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a newer release date than the average processor (2,023 vs 2,020).
66.7% better single-core performance
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,139 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
90.6% higher single-core score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,804 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
3.11x higher multi-core score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,906 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
2.55x higher PassMark score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (26,851 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
6 more CPU cores
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
2.13x faster classroom rendering
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,685.3 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
4 more CPU threads
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
4 wider front-end design
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher front-end width than the average processor (8 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
14.4x larger L2 cache
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (36 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
58.3% smaller process node
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower process node than the average processor (5 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
Uses big.LITTLE design
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
8.59x larger L1 cache
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (3,300 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
More advanced foundry
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (TSMC 5 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
8.73x higher memory bandwidth
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (400 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
2.18x higher memory speed
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
Newer DDR support
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
Newer PCIe version
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
50% more memory capacity
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (96 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
1 more supported displays
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Why is Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu worse than the average processor?

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14% lower boost clock
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
No multithreading support
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
6% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (455 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
1 fewer threads per core
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
Less advanced microarchitecture
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).
Narrower media codec support
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (ProRes RAW (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
No configurable TDP
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
75.6% higher TDP
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher TDP than the average processor (79 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
14% lower boost clock
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >4.7 GHz
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
Less advanced microarchitecture
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).
What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.
Importance: LOW
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake).Avalanche / Blizzard vs Kaby Lake
No multithreading support
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.
Importance: HIGH
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
No configurable TDP
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.
Importance: LOW
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
13.04x more expensive
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu is more expensive than the average processor (£3,260 vs £250).
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu is more expensive than the average processor (£3,260 vs £250).£3,260 vs £250
31.5% worse value for money
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has worse value for money than the average processor (4.84 vs 6.367).
What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has worse value for money than the average processor (4.84 vs 6.367).4.84 vs 6.37
75.6% higher TDP
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher TDP than the average processor (79 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <30 W
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu has a higher TDP than the average processor (79 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.79 W vs 45 W
Narrower media codec support
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (ProRes RAW (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.
Importance: LOW
Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (ProRes RAW (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).ProRes RAW (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu?

Dominant GPU performance for graphics-intensive workflows like 3D rendering and 8K video editing
Exceptional power efficiency with performance that barely dips even when running on battery
Industry-leading unified memory bandwidth (400GB/s) allowing for near-instant access to massive files
Upgraded media engine significantly speeds up ProRes encoding and decoding over previous generations
High transistor count (67 billion) provides a substantial 30% GPU performance boost over the M1 Max
Silent operation under most workloads due to a cooling system prioritized for low fan noise

What customers dislike about Apple M2 Max 12 Core Cpu 38 Core Gpu?

Extremely high price point makes it overkill and poor value for casual or everyday users
Runs quite hot under heavy load, with internal temperatures sometimes reaching mid-90s Celsius
Slightly lower battery life compared to the M2 Pro model due to the power demands of the larger GPU
No noticeable speed improvement for simple tasks like opening standard apps or web surfing compared to M1 models
Still lacks native AV1 hardware decoding support and continues to use a 5nm manufacturing process
Limited gaming ecosystem as many AAA titles are not yet optimized for Apple's Metal API

Expert reviews

indianexpress.com

12/02/2023

Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (2023, M2 Max) review

Anuj Bhatia's review in The Indian Express positions the 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Max as a "luxury sports car" for professionals, delivering desktop-class, high-end performance for demanding tasks like 8K video editing and 3D rendering. While maintaining the 2021 design, the laptop excels in usability through its varied port selection (HDMI, SD card slot) and features a...Read more

appleinsider.com

02/02/2023

Apple MacBook Pro 16 Review | 2023 M2 Max Performance

The 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Max is a performance-focused update that maintains the design of the 2021 model, targeting creative professionals with enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities for intense workflows like 8K video editing. Featuring up to a 12-core CPU and 38-core GPU, the M2 Max delivers substantial speed gains alongside upgraded connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6E,...Read more

pcmag.com

23/01/2023

Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2023, M2 Max) Review

The Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2023, M2 Max) is a five-star, high-performance workstation featuring an M2 Max chip with a 12-core CPU and 38-core GPU that delivers "dominant" power and exceptional battery life lasting over 26 hours. It retains the 2021 design, featuring a 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, and is built from sturdy aluminum. While offering incredible...Read more

theshortcut.com

17/01/2023

The Apple M2 Max is the MacBook Pro's secret weapon. Here's why

The Apple MacBook Pro with M2 Max, reviewed by The Shortcut, is a performance-focused iterative update utilizing the 2021 chassis, offering up to 30% better graphics and 20% faster CPU speeds for professionals. Key pros include exceptional power-to-efficiency ratio, a top-tier mini-LED display, updated connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E, HDMI 2.1), and superior battery life. Conversely, cons...Read more

macworld.com

13/06/2023

Mac Studio (M2 Max) review: Enough Mac Pro for most pro users

The Macworld review of the Mac Studio with M2 Max positions the device as the "ideal Mac" for high-end professionals requiring significant creative power without the need for Mac Pro expansion. The M2 Max chip delivers a 20% boost in CPU speed and up to a 30% jump in GPU performance over the previous generation, maintaining a "whisper-quiet" operation under heavy workloads like 4K...Read more

videoaktiv.tv

01/02/2023

Hands-on Review: Apple MacBook Pro M2 Max - The Ultimate?", "Real-world Test: Apple MacBook Pro M2 Max - The Maximum?

The Videoaktiv review positions the Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2023, M2 Max) as a high-end, powerhouse machine specifically designed for demanding video production workloads. It emphasizes the updated media engine for significantly improved ProRes encoding/decoding, allowing for seamless, proxy-free editing of multiple 4K and 8K streams. Key advantages identified include dominant...Read more

notebookcheck.com

19/09/2023

Apple Mac Studio 2023 Review: The M2 Max Shines in a Desktop Too

The 2023 Mac Studio with M2 Max offers roughly 20% better multi-core performance than its predecessor, delivering high-end workstation capabilities while maintaining an exceptionally quiet cooling system. Key upgrades include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and an HDMI 2.1 port supporting 8K/60Hz or 4K/240Hz displays, serving as a powerful, versatile alternative to the Mac Pro. However,...Read more

slashcam.de

27/01/2023

16-inch M2 Max MacBook Pro Performance Test with ARRI, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Blackmagic... Everything!

The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max) is a superior mobile workstation for video professionals, delivering exceptional 4K real-time performance with 10-16 bit footage from ARRI, Canon, Sony, and Blackmagic cameras. While it excels in temporal noise reduction and rendering, it still faces limitations in spatial noise reduction compared to Nvidia systems. Key hardware strengths include a...Read more

digitec.ch

16/02/2023

M2 MacBook Pro Review: Overkill

The Digitec review characterizes the M2 Pro/Max MacBook Pro as exceptionally high-quality, balanced laptops that offer only marginal, rarely noticeable performance gains over the M1 generation in everyday tasks, labeling them "overkill" for most users. Key strengths include a premium, durable chassis, an excellent 120Hz ProMotion display, robust connectivity with HDMI 2.1, and...Read more

heise.de

23/01/2023

2023 MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max Review: A Swift Generational Leap

The Heise review characterizes the 2023 MacBook Pro as an effective "speed bump," retaining the 2021 design while utilizing M2 Pro and Max chips for ~20% faster CPU and 30% faster GPU performance, alongside Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and HDMI 2.1. Pros include the superior Liquid Retina XDR display, extended battery life, and excellent thermal management on the 16-inch model, while...Read more

computerbase.de

20/02/2023

MacBook Pro with M2 Max Review – The Efficiency Master

The ComputerBase review of the 2023 MacBook Pro (M2 Max) highlights a refined, high-performance workstation featuring up to 20% faster CPU and 30% faster GPU speeds compared to the previous generation, along with upgraded Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and HDMI 2.1. Pros include industry-leading battery life up to 22 hours, consistent performance on and off battery power, and a...Read more

lemondeinformatique.fr

19/06/2023

Apple Mac Studio Review: High-performance needs met once again

According to Le Monde Informatique, the Apple Mac Studio bridges the gap between the Mac mini and Pro, acting as a "performance beast" for demanding creative tasks like 8K video rendering. Powered by M1 Max or Ultra chips, the system delivers high-end, efficient performance in a compact, quiet chassis with extensive front-facing connectivity. While praising its thermal efficiency...Read more

frandroid.com

31/03/2026

MacBook Pro M2 Max Review - Apple - Frandroid

The Frandroid review of the 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Max describes it as a refined, high-performance workstation, utilizing the same 2021 chassis while significantly boosting internal power. Key pros include the M2 Max chip's superior handling of creative tasks (8K video/3D rendering) and exceptional battery life, which can exceed 25 hours in certain tests. Conversely, the...Read more

notebookcheck.biz

06/03/2026

Apple M2 Pro and M2 Max Review: GPU is More Efficient, CPU Not Always

The Notebookcheck review of the Apple M2 Pro and M2 Max indicates significant performance gains, particularly with up to 30% faster GPU performance in the 38-core M2 Max, though at the cost of higher peak power consumption exceeding 50W. While the CPU gains an extra efficiency core, improving multi-core performance by 20-25%, the review notes that the chips are not always more...Read more

zdnet.fr

25/04/2024

MacBook Pro M2 Max: A creator's dream? I tested it with a pro

The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max, 2023) is a powerful, high-end, 3D-rendering, and video-editing laptop, featuring up to 38 GPU cores and two ProRes engines that enable seamless 4K editing without proxies. It offers superior performance over the M1 Max, cutting video export times by 20 to 30 seconds while providing "epic" battery life and updated connectivity including Wi-Fi 6E and...Read more

mac4ever.com

14/05/2023

MacBook Pro M2 Pro/M2 Max Review Roundup

The M2 Pro and M2 Max MacBook Pro models deliver up to 20% higher CPU and 30% better GPU performance over the previous generation, serving as a massive upgrade for Intel-based Mac users. Featuring an enhanced media engine that supports up to 43 streams of 4K ProRes video, these machines are aimed at creative professionals seeking to drastically reduce export times. Key improvements...Read more

notebookcheck.biz

15/02/2023

Apple MacBook Pro 16 2023 Review: M2 Max challenges the GeForce RTX 3080 Ti

The Apple MacBook Pro 16 2023 with M2 Max is a high-performance, 16.2-inch professional notebook featuring a 12-core CPU and up to 38-core GPU. It delivers exceptional creative performance that challenges Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti laptops in benchmarks, combined with a superior Mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display offering 1600 nits peak brightness and excellent color accuracy. The...Read more

macitynet.it

17/01/2023

Apple M2 Pro and M2 Max: Two Super Chips for Pro Macs

The 2023 MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips is a refined, evolutionary upgrade over the 2021 model, keeping the same design but significantly boosting internal performance. The M2 Max is highlighted as a powerhouse for professional workflows with up to 38 GPU cores, while both models feature enhanced connectivity including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and HDMI 2.1. Pros include...Read more

spider-mac.com

03/02/2023

Review of the 14" and 16" MacBook Pro M2 Pro and M2 Max: The Problem Is They're Too Powerful", "MacBook Pro 14" and 16" (M2 Pro/Max) Review: The Probl...

The 2023 MacBook Pro, featuring M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, maintains the 2021 design while delivering up to 20% faster CPU and 30% better GPU performance, ideal for heavy creative tasks like 8K video editing and 3D rendering. Key upgrades include future-proofed connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and HDMI 2.1 supporting 8K displays, alongside industry-leading battery life,...Read more

andreagaleazzi.com

23/01/2023

Apple MacBook Pro M2 Max vs. M1 Max: Review and Comparison

a little longer Andrea Galeazzi's review highlights that the MacBook Pro M2 Max delivers significant performance gains over the M1 Max for professional workloads, featuring a 12-core CPU and up to 38-core GPU. While the physical design remains unchanged, the M2 Max excels in demanding tasks like 8K video rendering, with specialized improvements including Wi-Fi 6E and an upgraded...Read more

dday.it

23/01/2023

MacBook Pro 16” 2023 Review with M2 Max: More Cores, More Power, and Incredible Battery Life

The DDay.it review describes the 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Max as a refined, mature powerhouse, boasting 12-core CPU/38-core GPU performance for demanding tasks like 8K editing, alongside updated connectivity featuring HDMI 2.1 and Wi-Fi 6E. Exceptional battery life, lasting through intensive workdays, and the high-brightness Liquid Retina XDR display are highlighted as key...Read more

tweakers.net

23/01/2023

Apple Dares to Charge 6200 Euros for This - MacBook Pro 2023 Review

Tweakers reviewed the 2023 16.2-inch MacBook Pro with the M2 Max chip, highlighting 20% faster CPU and 25% faster GPU performance over the M1 generation. Priced around €6,200, this high-end model features updated connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6E and HDMI 2.1. Key strengths identified include the durable design, excellent keyboard, and the Mini LED screen with accurate calibration....Read more

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