So you decided on a new Mac, and if you have a machine that still has an Intel processor, then that is a good decision. But the array of choices out there is daunting. There's the M3 Ultra, M4 Pro, M4, M3, and every other variant in between. Choosing wrong can cost you money and productivity. The good news is that it's a lot easier than you think! Let's break it down...
Typical Use If you use your Mac for basic functions like mail, surfing the internet, using Apple Photos, or even good old Word, Excel, and Powerpoint, then the standard M-series chip is more than enough to meet your needs. Whether you choose a Mac with a basic M3 or M4 processor it will be able to handle the daily grind of use for many years to come.
More Demanding Apps If you use Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom then the Pro level chips would be the ones to consider. The M3 or M4 Pro can even handle video editing, but if you are looking at running intensive effects apps, then you may want to level up. If you are using Final Cut Pro, then this is the minimum processor.
Video Editing and Graphic Design The Max series is the workhorse of the Apple chips. It is the one to get if you do intensive video editing with apps like Premier Pro and After Effects. It's also the one we recommend for design in Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, or SketchUp.
3D Modeling, Game Design, AI Generative Processes The M-Series Ultra chips are two Max chips fused together. They are immensely powerful and can handle demanding 3D Modeling, AI Generative Work, 3D Graphics, and just about anything that runs on a Mac today. They are expensive, but if your workflow demands an Ultra then it's always best to have the right tool for the job.
No matter what M-Series you choose, they all are much more powerful and capable than the Intel Macs of just a few years ago. | 
