Holding and experiencing the new MacBook Pro model with the M1 Max chip is indeed a very interesting thing, especially for Apple fans after the company announced this laptop model. Apple always knows how to make a difference in its style, which then turns out to be a trend, learned or imitated by other manufacturers!!
For example, when the notch (rabbit ears) at the time was first applied on iPhone phones was mocked by many, but now this “style” has been adopted by some rival parties. The new MacBook Pro now also has a notch, along with an ARM-based processor, with performance that promises to be very good, and offers equally good power management.
Let’s find out with us about the outstanding elements of the Apple MacBook Pro 14. Specifically, the advantages and disadvantages of this new generation Apple laptop model.
Specifications
CPU: Apple M1 Pro (8 cores) / M1 Pro (10 cores) / M1 Max
GPU: Apple M1 Pro GPU (16 cores) / M1 Pro GPU (14 cores) / M1 Max GPU (32 cores) / M1 Max GPU (24 cores)
Display: 14.2inch, Liquid Retina (3024×1964), 120Hz
Ram support up to 64GB
Dimensions: 312.6 x 221.2 x 15.5 mm (12.31″ x 8.71″ x 0.61″)
Weight: 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs)
Shell material: Aluminum
- Product design and finish
If there’s one thing that Apple has always done right, it’s the build quality of every product it launches. The MacBook Pro 14 laptop model is built with a solid aluminum frame, with high rigidity and durability, almost without seeing any creaking or flex when using force to press on “sensitive” positions” as the machine cover, or the bottom of the machine.
Still has a familiar and simple design, with rounded corners and details. The matte gray paint finish highlights the glossy chrome Apple logo on the lid. In terms of size, the MacBook Pro 14 model is quite light at only about 1.6 kg and has a thickness of 15.5 mm.
The lid can be opened and closed quite easily with one hand, revealing the screen with thin bezels and a notch. It sounds ridiculous, but Apple will give users a way to “hide” it so it’s no longer noticeable, and the Liquid Retina display with deep black rendering will further support this.
In our opinion right now, the notch is quite useless, without the FaceID cluster integration.
On the C side of the MacBook Pro 14, we will see 2 speaker slots. Talking about the keyboard, it has moderate key travel, partly because it optimizes the thinness of the device, and the key sensitivity is very high fast response. The power button on the MacBook Pro 14 is also integrated with a one-touch fingerprint to make logging into the machine faster, more convenient, and also more secure.
Like it or not, the TouchBar has disappeared on these new Apple laptop models, as for the touchpad, it has a decent size, and the surface is handled quite smoothly, for extremely accurate tracking and swiping. High mouse sensitivity, comfortable using experience.
- Display quality
The new generation MacBook Pro 14 is equipped with a Liquid Retina XDR screen with a size of 14.2 inches. It uses a total of 8040 Mini LEDs spread out as backlighting. With a resolution of 3024 x 1964p, and a screen ratio of 14:9, users will get a screen with a very high pixel density, accompanied by a high refresh rate of 120Hz.
The screen provides a good, spacious, comfortable viewing angle, the maximum brightness of the screen is 1600 nits with HDR support, and in SDR mode the brightness is 500 nits. In addition, the DCI-P3 color gamut coverage of the screen on the MacBook Pro 14 measured at 99%.
Color accuracy is quite high, and Apple also provides users with some preset profiles with pre-set brightness.
- CPU and GPU performance
CPU Performance
Having said that, we were surprised at the performance of the new Apple chip model. We tested the 8-core M1 Pro, it gave good results in Cinebench R20’s 3D Render test. While it’s still quite slow compared to competitors like Intel and AMD, note that the performance test itself is not yet properly optimized for Apple chip models.
Looking at the comparison table above, you can see that the M1 Pro chip model is still able to compete well in other performance tests, namely Cinebench R23 and Geekbench 5.
GPU Performance
The M1 Pro will be paired with a 14-core or 16-core GPU, here we have a device with a 14-core option, operating with a power level somewhere between 45W and 60W of the RTX 3050 Ti graphics card model.
- Upgradability of the device
The new generation MacBook comes with an SoC, so the ability to upgrade is almost non-existent, as both Ram and storage are located with the processor itself.
Users can get a maximum configuration of 32GB Ram for the model equipped with the M1 Pro chip, and with the M1 Max, it is 64GB. As for the data storage memory, you can choose to go up to 8TB.
- Connection port
This is not necessarily a major drawback or shortcoming of Apple, in general, the connection ports use new-generation connection technologies. Users will not have any USB-A ports on the MacBook Pro 14, we will have 3 USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 technology, a 3.5mm headphone jack, an SD card reader, and an output port HDMI image.
Performance
M1 Pro and M1 Max Performance
The MacBook Pro 14 gets its power from Apple’s own crafted silicon, so in practice you’re looking at the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. These chips kinda blend the fast CPU, GPU and machine learning parts right into one system-on-chip (SoC) layout. The idea is that everything is together, more like a single engine than separate components, and it helps with overall speed. On the M1 Pro side you can choose up to 10 CPU cores (8 performance cores and 2 efficiency cores) , and for the M1 Max you’re up to 32 CPU cores (20 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores) . Each one also brings integrated graphics, with GPU cores that can go as high as 32 on M1 Pro and up to 64 on M1 Max. Plus, there’s a 16-core Neural Engine inside for AI work, and machine learning stuff too.
Graphics Performance
When your workflow leans heavy on graphics, like video cutting, or 3D rendering, the MacBook Pro 14 really shines. The M1 Pro and M1 Max chips are basically built to push pixels, and they deliver graphics results people often call industry-leading. So whether you’re editing several video tracks of 4K footage in Final Cut Pro, or you’re generating detailed 3D scenes in Blender, the machine moves through the steps with less waiting. The GPU cores handle the load, and your creative process stays more fluid.
Unified Memory Architecture
Another key piece is the unified memory architecture. It kind of ties high-bandwidth memory (HBM) right in with the SoC, so memory access feels quick and doesn’t seem scattered around between separate parts. The MacBook Pro 14 can be arranged with up to 64GB unified memory, so multitasking and those more demanding apps, have plenty of room to sprawl a bit. This same unified approach also helps the system manage memory more sanely, which in turn lifts overall performance and keeps the power use on a more steady track, so everything feels smoother day to day.
Keyboard and Trackpad
So the MacBook Pro 14 comes with a keyboard that Apple has reworked pretty thoroughly. It includes a more classic style row of function keys, plus physical Esc , and Touch ID keys too. Underneath, there’s Apple refined scissor mechanism again, which gives that responsive key travel and a typing feel that’s honestly pretty easy on the hands. Also, the whole keyboard is backlit with adjustable brightness, so you can keep typing without squinting in dim rooms.
Then there is the Force Touch trackpad. This one is built to give precise cursor control, while also supporting the usual multi touch gestures. The surface feels expansive which helps with scrolling naturally, pinch-to-zoom, and swiping around for navigation. On top of that it has haptic feedback tech, so you get the sensation of a click , even though there’s no true mechanical movement happening.
Battery Life
All Day-ish Battery Performance
The MacBook Pro 14 is made to keep going for a long time on a charge,mostly because of the efficient M1 Pro and M1 Max chips,plus macOS that’s been tuned to be power aware. Apple says you can get as much as 17 hours for wireless web browsing, and as much as 11 hours for iTunes style movie playback from one charge. Of course real use is always a bit different, depending on what you do , and how you set things up. Still, in day to day work the MacBook Pro 14 tends to feel like it has all day battery endurance for common office tasks and creative stuff.
Fast Charging
For topping things off quickly,the laptop supports fast charging through its Thunderbolt 4 ports. That means you can recharge without waiting forever. Using the included 140W USB-C power adapter,the MacBook Pro 14 can reach up to 50% in about 30 minutes. So you’re back in the flow—work,editing,whatever—without that extended downtime that nobody likes. This quick charge aspect is especially handy for busy people who need steady output throughout the day.
Connectivity
Thunderbolt 4 Ports
The MacBook Pro 14 comes with three Thunderbolt 4 ports, so you get flexible ways to link, external displays, storage drives , and all sorts of peripherals in general. Thunderbolt 4 can push data transfer speeds up to 40Gb/s, which is pretty solid for brisk file movement and even smoother work when you’re using high-performance equipment. And these same ports also support USB 4 plus DisplayPort, so things stay compatible, not only with one single kind of device.
MagSafe 3
Apple brought back MagSafe charging for the MacBook Pro 14, and honestly it feels like it was made to be that extra convenient, secure kind of way to keep things powered. This MagSafe 3 setup uses a magnetic connector that locks on to the laptop with magnets, so you can plug in, and it just stays put without that annoying worry of accidental unplugging. Also, MagSafe 3 can handle up to 100W of power delivery which means, it chargers quickly and stays fairly efficient.
Software Ecosystem
macOS Monterey
On the MacBook Pro 14 you get macOS Monterey already installed, which is Apple’s current desktop operating system. macOS Monterey adds a bunch of improvements aimed at helping people work better, feel safer, and just have a smoother day-to-day experience. Among the highlights there is Universal Control, it helps your Mac and iPad move together more naturally, and you also get Focus mode for cutting down distractions. On top of that, Apple tightened up privacy settings so you have more fine grained control, and more visibility over what apps can do.
Optimized Apps
Apple shifting more deeply into its own silicon has pushed a lot of optimizations across the entire macOS landscape, from native apps to third party software. You’ll notice this especially with apps like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Adobe Creative Cloud, they’re tuned to lean into what the MacBook Pro 14 offers with M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. The result tends to be more speed, better energy use, and overall less waiting around. In practical terms, users may see steadier multitasking, faster renders, and a more responsive feel when running those optimized applications, like everything stays a bit more in sync.
Audio & Camera
Spatial Sound and Studio-Grade Mics
On the MacBook Pro 14 you get studio-grade, three-microphone array, it does a pretty clear job at pulling in detailed audio for video calls, recordings, and even voice directions. The mics also use directional beamforming, sort of like “aiming” at the speaker’s voice while cutting down on surrounding clatter or background noise, so everything sounds more crisp, and yes, more understandable. Plus the laptop handles spatial sound with dynamic head tracking, so with compatible headphones or speakers the whole thing feels more immersive than usual.
1080p FaceTime HD Lens
Apple upgraded the FaceTime HD camera on the MacBook Pro 14 to 1080p resolution. That means video calls look sharper and more detailed, without that washed-out feel. The camera comes with advanced image signal processing, which helps improve how the picture looks across different lighting situations. It aims for more lifelike skin tones, and also helps reduce noise, even when lighting isn’t great. So whether you’re in meetings, or just chatting with friends, the better lens tends to upgrade the whole video calling experience.
Security and Privacy
Touch ID and Secure Enclave
The MacBook Pro 14 has Touch ID, Apple fingerprint auth tech, built right into the power button, so kinda seamless. With Touch ID you get a more safer and smoother way to unlock the laptop , make ok purchases, and reach protected files and settings, without the usual hassle. It’s kind of quicker, more private, and you don’t have to bother with extra steps as much. There’s also the Secure Enclave, a separate coprocessor that keeps fingerprint data encrypted and walled off from the rest of the system. This setup adds another layer of security and, overall, helps keep user privacy protected.
Apple T2 Security Chip
The laptop comes with the Apple T2 Security Chip , and it adds more protection like secure boot , encrypted storage and it also does real time encryption for microphone and camera info. In practice the T2 chip works alongside macOS so it can help guard you from malware, weird attempts to access your system without permission, and also from tampering . That way , your data , and your personal information stay locked down more reliably.
Environmental Responsibility
Sustainable Design
Apple really pushed environmental responsibility here with the MacBook Pro 14. The device uses recycled materials , for example the chassis is 100% recycled aluminum , plus the other parts are responsibly sourced. Apple’s efforts to lower the carbon footprint don’t stop at the build either, it also covers energy efficiency, packaging choices, and recycling programs, so the MacBook Pro 14 feels like a solid pick for people who care about the planet.
Conclusion
Overall, the Apple MacBook Pro 14 really sets a higher bar for pro laptops, mostly because of its strong performance , impressive display, and those thoughtful newer features. Whether you’re a creative professional , a student , or using it in a business setting, the MacBook Pro 14 delivers strong value through reliable hardware, long battery life, and smooth integration across the macOS ecosystem. Sure, it’s priced higher , but the mix of capability, design, and day to day usability makes it a good buy for anyone who wants the best.
Pros
Powerful Performance : The M1 Pro and M1 Max chips give you that top tier CPU/GPU punch, like real industry stuff.
Stunning Retina Display: You get a High-resolution Liquid Retina XDR panel with Pro Motion and Mini-LED backlighting , so colors look more truthful, and HDR creation feels smoother.
Enhanced Keyboard and Trackpad: The keyboard is redesigned with a scissor mechanism, plus function keys, and the Force Touch trackpad is for accurate navigation.
Long Battery Life: Up to 17 hours of web browsing , and 11 hours of video playback, and yes fast charging is supported too through Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Versatile Connectivity: Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, MagSafe 3 charging, and it also plays nice with USB 4 plus DisplayPort stuff.
macOS Monterey feels like it was tuned for Apple’s whole ecosystem, with Universal Control and stronger privacy settings, not only the basics, you know.
Premium build quality though, it’s mostly a lightweight aluminum chassis, very minimalist vibe, and it comes in Space Gray or Silver— pretty clean overall.
On security features, there’s Touch ID for safer logins, plus the Apple T2 Security Chip quietly managing encryption and that broader system integrity stuff, too.
And for environmental responsibility, it uses recycled materials and tries to hit better energy efficiency, basically matching Apple’s sustainability narrative, a bit.
Cons
High Price Tag : This one sits at a premium level , so it’s not super friendly to people on tighter budgets.
Limited Port Selection : It leans heavily on Thunderbolt 4 , so legacy peripherals may need adapters, sometimes more than you’d hope.
Storage Options : Some configurations can feel restrictive for heavy multimedia libraries or large data projects.
Who should buy the MacBook Pro 14, really?
Creative Professionals
If you’re the kind of person who lives in creative work, the MacBook Pro 14 is pretty much designed for that, video editing, graphic design, even music production, it just handles the heavy lifting. You get a high resolution display, strong CPU and GPU power, plus a well tuned software ecosystem so you can keep moving fast, without this constant “should i worry about performance” feeling.
Students and Educators
For students and educators, the MacBook Pro 14 feels like a steady choice for research, studying, and making content. The battery life is solid, the whole thing is portable, and the integration with learning tools and apps is pretty smooth. Whether you’re in a classroom or working from somewhere else, it’s a pretty reliable companion, day after day.
Business Users
Now, for business folks who want a premium laptop for productivity, meetings, and collaboration, this one makes sense. The MacBook Pro 14 brings serious performance along with security features , and the macOS side stays dependable in real work situations. It also works well with a broad set of business applications, and it plays nicely with corporate IT environments, which helps workflows keep flowing and data stay protected.
Apple Ecosystem Enthusiasts
If you’re already, pretty deep in Apple’s world with an iPhone , an iPad, or an Apple Watch , you’ll probably appreciate how smooth the handoff feels . The MacBook Pro 14 pushes the continuity features further, so going from device to device feels effortless, like it’s all one small ecosystem. Things like Universal Control and Handoff, they make it easier to share content, move tasks around, and just generally keep your day moving, kinda like the devices are quietly coordinating for you.
Apple MacBook Pro 14″ with Liquid Retina XDR Display, M1 Pro Chip with 10-Core CPU and 16-Core GPU, 32GB Memory, 1TB SSD, Space Gray, Late 2021: Buy it now
Apple 2021 MacBook Pro (14-inch, M1 Max chip with 10‑core CPU and 32‑core GPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) – Space Gray Z15H00107: Buy it now
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Tech Reviewer & Product Analyst
Định Bia has spent over 10 years testing consumer electronics with a focus on smart technology. He work as a product advisor at Biareview where he helped customers find the right devices for their needs. He personally tests every product featured on this site using a consistent evaluation framework covering quality, durability, and value. All reviews are based on experience, not influenced by the manufacturer.