Mac Buyer's Guide: Which Apple Mac Should You Buy?

With the release of the new Mac Pro in 2023, Apple completed the transition of its Macs from Intel processors to its custom-designed M-series silicon.

- KENNY YEO

To be honest, because of the sheer performance of these chips, there really isn't a bad Mac. They are all immensely capable machines. That said, there are some considerations you should keep in mind when deciding on a new system. This guide will tell you what you need to consider when shopping for a new Mac, and which one is best for you.

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY A MAC?

The single most compelling reason for getting a Mac is Apple Silicon.

It's impossible to overstate its importance because it utterly transformed the computing landscape.

When it exploded onto the scene, its combination of performance and efficiency was so far ahead of traditional x86 processors that it forced Intel and AMD to return to the drawing board and Microsoft to turn to Qualcomm to explore the possibilities of Windows computing using ARM-based processors. Things have changed significantly in the past couple of months. Qualcomm's ARM-base Snapdragon X Elite is finally ready for prime time. Intel has Lunar Lake, and AMD isn't sitting still with its Ryzen 300 AI series.

However, one can argue that even the latest offerings from the trio still don't quite rival the overall combination of performance, efficiency, and compatibility that Apple offers. Even the most basic M4 chip is a highly competent thing.

The speed at which it launches apps and the responsiveness that it has even when it's heavily taxed is nothing short of amazing. I'd argue that unless you are into Windows gaming or need to run very specific Windows software, you should consider a Mac.

HOW MUCH DOES A MAC COST?