Apple Introduces New Mac Studio with M4 Max and M3 Ultra for Enhanced Performance

Apple has updated the Mac Studio for the first time in over a year and a half, introducing a unique mix of chip generations. The base model now features the latest M4 Max, while the high-end version comes with the M3 Ultra. This dual-generation approach gives users options based on their performance needs. Both models are available for preorder now, with the M4 Max version priced at $1,999 and the M3 Ultra at $3,999. They will officially hit the market on March 12th.

M4 Max: A Boost in Speed and Memory

The M4 Max Mac Studio delivers a major performance upgrade, with Apple claiming it is up to 3.5 times faster than the original M1 Max model. Equipped with a 14- to 16-core CPU and a 32- to 40-core GPU, it offers increased power for demanding tasks.

The base RAM has been upgraded to 36GB, with an option to expand up to 128GB—a significant improvement over the previous 96GB cap. Storage remains flexible, starting at 512GB SSD, but users can upgrade to 8TB if needed.

For those seeking even more power, the M3 Ultra Mac Studio is built to handle intensive workloads. It boasts a 32-core CPU, with 24 performance cores, making it 50% faster than any previous Ultra chip.

The GPU starts at 60 cores and can be upgraded to 80 cores, catering to high-end creative and computational tasks. A 32-core Neural Engine enhances AI and machine learning performance. The starting RAM of 96GB can be expanded to an astonishing 512GB, while storage options range from 1TB to 16TB.

New Graphics Capabilities and Thunderbolt 5

Apple has improved the GPU architecture, introducing dynamic caching to optimize performance by reducing data access times. The addition of hardware-accelerated mesh shading and a second-generation ray-tracing engine enhances graphics rendering, making the new Mac Studio a better choice for game development and 3D work. Thunderbolt 5 support is included, though only the M3 Ultra model provides it across all six USB-C ports, while the M4 Max model limits it to four.

The Mac Studio maintains its compact, square-shaped design, with no visible exterior changes. On the front, it includes two USB-C ports and an SD card slot, while the back features four additional USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an Ethernet port, and a headphone jack. While the look remains familiar, the internal upgrades make this a substantial step forward for professionals needing cutting-edge performance.