Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023)
| Manufacturer | Apple |
|---|---|
| Product family | MacBook Pro |
| Release date | January 2023 |
| Introductory price | USD 1999 to 3499 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | macOS 13 Ventura |
| CPU | Apple M2 Pro Apple M2 Max |
| Memory | 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, or 96 GB unified memory |
| Memory slots | None (soldered) |
| Storage | 512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB, or 8 TB SSD |
| Storage slots | None (soldered) |
| Removable storage | SDXC card slot |
| Display | Screen size: 14.2 inch Panel type: Mini-LED Coating: Glossy Resolution: 3024 x 1964 PPI: 254 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: Up to 120 Hz (ProMotion) Brightness: 500 nits (SDR), 1000 nits (XDR), 1600 nits (HDR) Contrast ratio: 1,000,000:1 P3: 100 % VRR: ProMotion |
| Graphics | Apple M2 Pro 16-core GPU Apple M2 Max 30-core GPU Apple M2 Max 38-core GPU |
| Sound | High-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers Wide stereo sound Support for Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD camera |
| Touchpad | Force Touch trackpad |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) Bluetooth 5.3 3 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack 1 x SDXC card slot |
| Dimensions | W: 12.31 inches (31.3 cm) D: 8.71 inches (22.1 cm) H: 0.61 inches (1.5 cm) |
| Mass | 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg) |
| Power brick | 67W or 96W USB-C Power Adapter |
| Battery | 70 Wh Li-Polymer |
| Keyboard | Backlit Magic Keyboard |
| Chassis | Color: Silver, Space Gray Materials: Aluminum |
| Number pad | No |
| Fingerprint reader | Yes (Touch ID) |
| Facial recognition | No |
| Predecessor | Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2021) |
| Website | Apple |
All statements attributed to reviews are the reviewer's own opinion. Note that these claims were accurate at the time of publication and may be dated when you are reading this article. Read more.
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The Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is a high-performance laptop designed for professionals, featuring Apple's M2 Pro and M2 Max chips. It offers significant improvements in processing power, graphics performance, and battery life over its predecessors. Available configurations vary by store and location.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) can be configured with the following processors[1]:
- Apple M2 Pro with 10-core CPU (6 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores)
- Apple M2 Pro with 12-core CPU (8 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores)
- Apple M2 Max with 12-core CPU (8 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores)
The M2 Pro and M2 Max chips are built on a 5 nm architecture and include a 16-core Neural Engine. The M2 Pro offers up to 200GB/s memory bandwidth, while the M2 Max offers up to 400GB/s memory bandwidth. Both chips feature a media engine with hardware-accelerated H.264, HEVC, ProRes, and ProRes RAW support.
Reviewers have noted that the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips provide substantial performance improvements over the previous M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. The M2 Pro with 12-core CPU shows a 23% increase in single-core performance and a 25% increase in multi-core performance compared to the M1 Pro.[2] The M2 Max chip, particularly in the 16-inch model, allows for higher clock speeds and better thermal management, resulting in superior performance in benchmarks and real-world tasks.[3]
Benchmarks:
- Cinebench R23:
Graphics
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) can be configured with the following GPUs[1]:
- Apple M2 Pro with 16-core GPU
- Apple M2 Max with 30-core GPU
- Apple M2 Max with 38-core GPU
The M2 Pro and M2 Max chips include a media engine with video decode engine, video encode engine, and ProRes encode and decode engine. The M2 Max chip offers significantly higher graphics performance, particularly in configurations with the 38-core GPU.
Reviewers have noted that the M2 Max with 38-core GPU provides a substantial performance boost over the M2 Pro, particularly in graphics-intensive tasks. The 16-inch model with M2 Max outperforms the 14-inch model due to better thermal management and higher wattage output.[3] The M2 Pro's 16-core GPU also shows improved performance over previous models, maintaining stability under prolonged load and on battery power.[2]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Wild Life Extreme:
- GFXBench 3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen:
Memory
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) can be configured with the following memory options[1]:
- 16 GB unified memory
- 32 GB unified memory
- 64 GB unified memory (M2 Max only)
- 96 GB unified memory (M2 Max with 38-core GPU only)
The memory is soldered onto the motherboard and is not user-upgradeable. The M2 Pro offers up to 200GB/s memory bandwidth, while the M2 Max offers up to 400GB/s memory bandwidth.
Reviewers have noted that the memory performance is excellent, supporting high bandwidth for demanding applications and making it suitable for professional workloads.[4]
Storage
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) can be configured with the following storage options[1]:
- 512 GB SSD
- 1 TB SSD
- 2 TB SSD
- 4 TB SSD
- 8 TB SSD
The base model uses a single SSD chip, which has been noted to have slower performance compared to previous models with multiple chips. However, the overall performance is still much better than the 256 GB flash storage in the MacBook Air.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Blackmagic Disk Speed Test:
Co-processors
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) includes a 16-core Neural Engine in both the M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, enhancing machine learning tasks and performance.[1]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features a backlit Magic Keyboard with 78 (U.S.) or 79 (ISO) keys, including 12 full-height function keys and 4 arrow keys in an inverted-T arrangement. It also includes Touch ID for secure authentication and an ambient light sensor for automatic backlighting.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience with good key travel and feedback.[2]
Touchpad
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features a Force Touch trackpad for precise cursor control and pressure-sensing capabilities. It enables Force clicks, accelerators, pressure-sensitive drawing, and Multi-Touch gestures.[1]
Reviewers have praised the trackpad for its responsiveness and support for various gestures, enhancing the user experience.[2]
Webcam
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) includes a 1080p FaceTime HD camera with an advanced image signal processor and computational video for improved video quality.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the webcam provides good quality for video calls, but lacks advanced features like Face ID or Center Stage.[2]
Microphone
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features a studio-quality three-mic array with a high signal-to-noise ratio and directional beamforming for clear audio capture.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the microphone quality is decent for video calls and recordings, capturing clear audio.[2]
Output Devices
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Display
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features a 14.2-inch (diagonal) Liquid Retina XDR display with a native resolution of 3024-by-1964 at 254 pixels per inch. The display supports ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, and fixed refresh rates of 47.95Hz, 48.00Hz, 50.00Hz, 59.94Hz, and 60.00Hz. It offers a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, XDR brightness of 1000 nits sustained full-screen, 1600 nits peak (HDR content only), and SDR brightness of 500 nits. The display also supports Wide color (P3) and True Tone technology.[1]
Reviewers have praised the display for its outstanding picture quality, high brightness, and excellent color accuracy, making it suitable for creative work.[4]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum brightness: 1481 cd/m²[4]
- SDR brightness: 500 cd/m²[4]
- Contrast ratio: 25000:1 (Black: 0.02 cd/m²)[4]
Audio
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers, wide stereo sound, and support for Spatial Audio when playing music or video with Dolby Atmos on built-in speakers. It also supports Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking when using compatible AirPods.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the speakers provide rich sound quality and good volume levels, enhancing multimedia experiences.[2]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) for faster wireless connectivity.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the WiFi performance is strong with good range and speed, supporting the latest standards.[4]
Benchmarks:
Bluetooth
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) comes with Bluetooth 5.3.[1]
SD Card Reader
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) includes an SDXC card slot for expanded storage options.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the card reader works well for transferring files from SD cards, providing good read/write speeds.[4]
USB
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 3 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports with support for charging, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4 (up to 40Gb/s), and USB 4 (up to 40Gb/s)
- 1 x HDMI port for video output
- 1 x 3.5 mm headphone jack with advanced support for high-impedance headphones
Reviewers have noted that the USB ports provide fast data transfer speeds and versatility for connecting various devices.[4]
Display Outputs
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) supports the following display outputs[1]:
- M2 Pro: Supports up to two external displays with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt
- M2 Max: Supports up to four external displays with up to three external displays with 6K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one external display with up to 4K resolution at 144Hz over HDMI
Reviewers have noted that the display outputs allow for multiple external displays, enhancing productivity.[4]
Case
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is available in Silver and Space Gray finishes. The chassis is made of high-quality aluminum, providing a sleek and robust design suitable for professional use.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the design is sleek and robust, with a premium feel. However, it can feel bulky compared to some competitors.[4]
Maintenance
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is not easily serviceable, with limited upgrade options for RAM and SSD, making it less flexible for future upgrades.[4]
Cooling System
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) features an efficient cooling system with minimal noise. The 16-inch model has better thermal management, with fans ramping up effectively to control heat, allowing for sustained performance under load.[3]
Heat
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) can get warm under heavy load, especially on the keyboard area, with temperatures exceeding 45 °C.[4]
Benchmarks:
Noise
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is very quiet in everyday use, with maximum noise levels reaching 52 dB(A) under load.[4]
Benchmarks:
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) ships with a 67W USB-C Power Adapter for the M2 Pro with 10-core CPU and a 96W USB-C Power Adapter for the M2 Pro with 12-core CPU or M2 Max. It is fast-charge capable with the 96W USB-C Power Adapter.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the power consumption is reasonable for the performance offered. The 14-inch model is limited to 30 Watts during heavy workloads, while the 16-inch can push up to 62 Watts, allowing for better performance.[3]
Benchmarks:
Battery Life
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is equipped with a 70-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery. Apple claims up to 18 hours of Apple TV app movie playback and up to 12 hours of wireless web usage.[1]
Reviewers have verified that the battery life is good, lasting around 12 hours for web browsing and nearly 16.5 hours in video loop tests.[4]
Benchmarks:
- WiFi Websurfing: 13h 27min[4]
- WiFi Websurfing max. Brightness: 7h 08min[4]
- Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: 15h 17min[4]
- Load (maximum brightness): 1h 10min[4]
Biometrics
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) includes Touch ID for secure authentication and access.[1]
Reviewers have noted that the fingerprint reader works well for quick logins, enhancing security and convenience.[4]
Software
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) ships with macOS 13 Ventura. It includes various preinstalled Apple applications, such as App Store, Books, Calendar, Contacts, FaceTime, Find My, GarageBand, Home, iMovie, Keynote, Mail, Maps, Messages, Music, News, Notes, Numbers, Pages, Photos, Podcasts, Preview, QuickTime Player, Reminders, Safari, Shortcuts, Siri, Stocks, Time Machine, TV, and Voice Memos.[1]
Preinstalled Software
The preinstalled software enhances productivity and user experience, providing a range of tools for creative and professional tasks.[4]
Linux Support
Linux support is limited, with potential compatibility issues for certain applications.[4]
Accessories & Warranty
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The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) comes with a 67W or 96W USB-C Power Adapter and paperwork.[1]
There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[1]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The MacBook Pro 14 (2023) is highly regarded for its performance, display quality, and build. It is considered one of the best professional laptops available, offering significant improvements over its predecessors. The laptop is suitable for professionals who require high performance and reliability.[2][4][3]
Problems Summary[2][4][3]
- Limited upgradeability due to soldered components.
- Can get warm under heavy load.
- Higher price compared to previous models.
- Base model SSD performance is slower than higher capacity models.
- Lacks advanced webcam features like Face ID or Center Stage.
Links
M2 Pro (10-core), 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD: NoteBookCheck
M2 Pro (12-core), 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NoteBookCheck
M2 Max (12-core), 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: MaxTech
Community Reception
Overall Sentiment
Problems Summary
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 1.23 "MacBook Pro 14 (2023) Specifications". Apple.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 "Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) Entry Review: Base model with cut-down M2 Pro, SSD downgrade, and slightly higher power draws". NotebookCheck.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 "Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) Review". MaxTech.
- ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.15 4.16 4.17 4.18 4.19 4.20 4.21 4.22 4.23 4.24 4.25 4.26 4.27 4.28 4.29 4.30 4.31 4.32 4.33 4.34 4.35 "Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) Review: The M2 Pro is slowed down in the small MacBook Pro". NotebookCheck.