New base 14-inch MacBook Pro offers gains but is lacking a port
Apple’s new 14-inch MacBook Pro model with entry-level M3 chip offers a decent performance boost over the previous generation 13-inch model, but still lags behind the more expensive M3 Pro and M3 Max configurations in some key areas.
The $1,599 base model packs Apple’s latest M3 processor along with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The edge tested a $1,999 configuration with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The tester found that the new laptop delivers about a 10% speed increase over the 15-inch MacBook Air with M2 chip in benchmark tests.
We lost a port on the 14-inch MacBook
However, The Verge noted that the entry-level 14-inch Pro only includes two Thunderbolt ports, compared to three on the Pro models with M3 Pro and M3 Max chips. It also can’t connect two external monitors at once, a limitation also imposed by the base M3 chip.
On the plus side, The Verge highlighted the new 14-inch screen as a significant improvement over the previous smaller 13-inch size. The reviewer also praised the laptop’s long battery life, with the review unit easily lasting an entire workday on a single charge.
Overall, The Verge wrote that the 14-inch MacBook Pro is a machine capable of handling average workloads such as web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. But the starting 8 GB of RAM may still be too limited for heavy multitaskers. She recommended upgrading to at least 16 GB for most users.
For buyers choosing between the 14-inch MacBook Air and the 15-inch MacBook Air, The Verge’s reviewer suggested opting for the Air for those who prioritize a larger screen. However, the article points out that the Pro is a safer choice for anyone who wants more ports and extra performance headroom.
Apple revealed its new MacBook Pro line featuring M3 chips at its annual product event in January. The 14-inch Pro starts at $1,599, while pricing for the 16-inch model starts at $2,499. Both are available to order now and will begin shipping to customers later this month.
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