The first reviews for the M4 MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iMac have just dropped. Apple’s first M4 Macs arrive in stores and users’ hands tomorrow. And based on these early impressions, there should be a lot of very satisfied customers soon.
Surprisingly strong M4 base models
One common theme among reviews is that the base model M4 Macs, thanks to 16GB of RAM especially, are more compelling than ever.
Where this is perhaps most surprising is the M4 MacBook Pro, which earns a lot of praise.
Jason Snell at Six Colors says, “I’m happy to report that, as of now, the $1599 base-model 14-inch MacBook Pro really feels like a full member of the family.”
Antonio G. Di Benedetto writes at The Verge:
Does the M4 chip alone merit an upgrade?
Reviews generally found that while the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max were all impressive, they also aren’t huge leaps ahead of last year’s M3. Even if you have an M2 Mac, you still may not be compelled to upgrade.
Christopher Null at WIRED:
This isn’t exactly a bad thing, but more a testament to the strengths of Apple silicon. It’s the other changes of the M4 line, like additional RAM, nano-texture option, improved camera, and more that really make these models stand out.
Nano-texture makes a worthy upgrade
Reviewers are also glad to have the nano-texture option on more Macs than ever.
Brian Heater writes at Tech Crunch:
Mac mini’s power button placement
What about the redesigned Mac mini’s power button? Apple moved it to the bottom of the Mac, which earned some derision online.
Chris Welch writes at The Verge:
Similarly, Dan Moren writes at Six Colors:
Brenda Stolyar writes at WIRED:
New 12MP Center Stage camera is actually a good camera
Apple touted its new 12MP Center Stage camera in its MacBook Pro and iMac introductions. But the company always talks up its cameras, despite past models disappointing.
Fortunately, it sounds like this year is actually different.
Antonio G. Di Benedetto at The Verge:
Jason Snell at Six Colors:
There are also video reviews and first impressions available on YouTube. Here are a handful to check out.
Best Mac accessories
- 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging
- tomtoc protective MacBook sleeve bag
- Twelve South aluminum laptop stand for MacBooks
- Anker USB-C 8-in-1 hub with Ethernet, HDMI, SD, more
- Baseus 10ft USB-C cable for extended reach
