Apple MacBook Pro (14-inch) review
- Performance: A leap forward for M series chips
The evolution from M1 Pro/Max to M4:
Early M1 Pro and Max chips have demonstrated advantages in multi-core performance, graphics processing capabilities (such as 32-core GPUs) and memory bandwidth (up to 400GB/s), supporting complex tasks such as 4K/8K video editing and 3D rendering17. The latest M4 series chips have further improved energy efficiency and AI computing power. For example, the neural engine of M4 Max is 3 times faster than that of M1 Max, making it more suitable for AI model training and 8K video color grading.
Actual test: The 14-inch model equipped with M1 Pro scored 12477 in the Geekbench 5 multi-core test, far exceeding the 7571 points of the previous generation M1 chip; M4 Pro achieves significant improvements in data modeling and engineering calculations through a 14-core CPU and 20-core GPU.
- Screen quality: the perfect combination of Mini-LED and ProMotion
Liquid Retina XDR display: peak brightness of 1600 nits, support for 100% DCI-P3 wide color gamut, and stunning HDR content presentation. Mini-LED technology provides more refined contrast control, suitable for professional film and television post-production.
120Hz ProMotion dynamic refresh rate: the screen can automatically adjust the refresh rate (such as 24Hz-120Hz) according to the content, taking into account both smoothness and power saving needs.
Controversial design: Notch screen: Although the notch area integrates a 1080P camera and light sensor, the top will hide the notch with a black border when full-screen application, which has little impact in actual use.
- Battery life and charging: guarantee of all-day productivity
Ultra-long battery life: M1 Pro/Max models support 17-21 hours of video playback, while the M4 version optimizes battery capacity and chip energy efficiency to increase battery life to 24 hours, setting a new record for the MacBook series.
Fast charging technology: 50% charge in 30 minutes, 14-inch 96W/16-inch 140W charger as standard, MagSafe magnetic interface combines convenience and safety.
- Design and function: professional-level detail optimization
Interface richness: return to MagSafe charging port, HDMI, SD card slot and 3 Thunderbolt 4 interfaces, support multi-screen expansion (such as M1 Max can be connected to 3 Pro Display XDR), but please note that USB-A needs to be used through an adapter.
Keyboard and sound effects: Physical function keys replace Touch Bar, six-speaker system supports spatial audio, and studio-level microphones improve meeting quality.
Heat dissipation problem: The keyboard area temperature of the basic M4 model is higher under high load. Professional users are recommended to choose the mid-to-high-end version to optimize heat dissipation performance.
- Price and purchase recommendations
Cost-effectiveness analysis:
M1 Pro basic model (starting at 14,999 yuan): suitable for creators with limited budgets, the performance and screen are far superior to the old 13-inch model.
M4 series (starting from 12,999 yuan): The basic version is upgraded to 16GB of memory + 3 Thunderbolt interfaces, with no price increase, but the 8GB memory version is still insufficient.
Top-end options: M3 Max/M4 Max models (more than 30,000 yuan) are aimed at heavy demands such as video editing and AI development, but performance and budget need to be weighed.
Applicable people:
Students/light office: M3/M4 basic models are enough to cope with daily tasks.
Professional creators: Give priority to M1 Pro/Max or M4 Pro/Max, with more than 32GB of memory.
Summary
The 14-inch MacBook Pro has become a benchmark for mobile workstations with its powerful chip performance, top-level screen and all-day battery life. Although there are controversies about the notch screen and heat dissipation issues, its comprehensive experience is still unmatched. For professional users who pursue extreme performance, mid-to-high-end models are worth investing in; and those with limited budgets can get a cost-effective option through the M4 basic version.
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