Apple MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023)

Apple MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023)

Manufacturer	Apple
Product family	MacBook Pro
Release date	October 2023 (2023-10)
Introductory price	USD 2499 to 3499
Discontinued	No
Operating system	macOS Sonoma
CPU	Apple M3 Apple M3 Pro Apple M3 Max
Memory	8 GB, 16 GB, 18 GB, 36 GB, 48 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB unified memory
Memory slots	None (onboard)
Storage	512 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB, 8 TB SSD
Storage slots	None (onboard)
Removable storage	SDXC card slot
Display	Screen size: 16.2 inch Panel type: Mini-LED Coating: Glossy Resolution: 3456 x 2234 PPI: 254 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: 120 Hz Brightness: 600 Nits (SDR), 1600 Nits (HDR) Contrast Ratio
Graphics	Apple M3 10-core GPU Apple M3 Pro 14-core GPU Apple M3 Pro 18-core GPU Apple M3 Max 30-core GPU Apple M3 Max 40-core GPU
Sound	6-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 USB-C 4.0 with Thunderbolt 4 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack 1 x SDXC card slot
Dimensions	W: 14.01 inches (35.6 cm) D: 9.77 inches (24.8 cm) H: 0.66 inches (1.7 cm)
Mass	4.7 pounds (2.1 kg)
Power brick	96W USB-C Power Adapter
Battery	99.6 Wh Li-Polymer
Keyboard	Backlit Magic Keyboard
Chassis	Color: Space Black Materials: Aluminum Cooling: Dual fans
Number pad	No
Fingerprint reader	Yes (Touch ID)
Facial recognition	No
Predecessor	Apple MacBook Pro 16 (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 16 (Late 2023) is a high-performance laptop designed for professionals and power users. It features Apple's M3 series chips, offering significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance, efficiency, and battery life. Available configurations vary by store and location.

Primary Hardware

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Processor

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) can be configured with the following processors:

• Apple M3 with 8-core CPU (4 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores), 10-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 100GB/s memory bandwidth.
• Apple M3 Pro with 11-core CPU (5 performance cores + 6 efficiency cores), 14-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 150GB/s memory bandwidth.
• Apple M3 Pro with 12-core CPU (6 performance cores + 6 efficiency cores), 18-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 150GB/s memory bandwidth.
• Apple M3 Max with 14-core CPU (10 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores), 30-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 300GB/s memory bandwidth.
• Apple M3 Max with 16-core CPU (12 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores), 40-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 400GB/s memory bandwidth.

Apple claims that the M3 series chips offer significant performance improvements over their predecessors, with enhanced efficiency and better thermal management. The M3 Max, in particular, is designed for demanding tasks such as video editing, programming, and music production.

Reviewers have noted that the M3 Max with a 16-core CPU and 40-core GPU offers a 10.6% faster multicore score in Geekbench compared to the 14-core CPU and 30-core GPU variant. However, real-world applications such as web design and music production show minimal differences between the two configurations. The M3 Max also demonstrates a 63% improvement in Cinebench R23 Multi test compared to the M2 Max, outperforming Intel's H45 CPUs and AMD's HS processors.

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R23:
  • M3 Pro: ~15106 pts (multi-core), ~1977 pts (single-core)
  • M3 Max: ~24024 pts (multi-core), ~1968 pts (single-core)
• Geekbench 6:
  • M3 Pro: ~15298 pts (multi-core), ~2327 pts (single-core)
  • M3 Max: ~21243 pts (multi-core), ~3096 pts (single-core)

Graphics

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with integrated GPUs as part of the M3 series chips:

• Apple M3 with 10-core GPU
• Apple M3 Pro with 14-core GPU
• Apple M3 Pro with 18-core GPU
• Apple M3 Max with 30-core GPU
• Apple M3 Max with 40-core GPU

Apple claims that the M3 series GPUs offer hardware-accelerated ray tracing and improved performance for graphics-intensive tasks. The M3 Max with a 40-core GPU shows a 31% higher performance in the 3D Mark's Wildlife Extreme benchmark compared to the 30-core GPU variant. The M3 Max also demonstrates a 25% increase in gaming performance, achieving 188 FPS compared to 150 FPS on the M2 Max.

Benchmarks:

• 3D Mark Wildlife Extreme:
  • M3 Max 30-core GPU: ~143.5 fps
  • M3 Max 40-core GPU: ~188 fps
• Geekbench Metal:
  • M3 Max 30-core GPU: ~55240 pts
  • M3 Max 40-core GPU: ~99672 pts

Memory

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) can be configured with the following unified memory options:

• 8 GB or 16 GB (configurable to 16 GB or 24 GB)
• 18 GB (configurable to 36 GB or 96 GB)
• 36 GB (configurable to 96 GB)
• 48 GB, 64 GB, or 128 GB (M3 Max with 16-core CPU)

Apple claims that the unified memory architecture allows for efficient multitasking and handling of large files. Reviewers have noted that the additional RAM in the upgraded models does not significantly enhance performance in most tasks, as both models perform similarly in web design and music production.

Benchmarks:

• Amorphous Memory Mark: Not specified.

Storage

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) can be configured with the following SSD options:

• 512 GB or 1 TB SSD (configurable to 1 TB or 2 TB)
• 512 GB SSD (configurable to 1 TB, 2 TB, or 4 TB; 8 TB for M3 Max only)
• 1 TB SSD (configurable to 2 TB, 4 TB, or 8 TB)

Reviewers have noted that the SSD speeds have improved compared to previous models, with the M3 Max achieving read speeds of 6271 MB/s compared to 5600 MB/s on the M2 Max. The entry-level SSD is faster, and the display brightness has increased, making it a strong choice for users prioritizing battery life and efficiency over raw performance.

Benchmarks:

• Blackmagic Disk Speed Test:
  • Read: ~5665.9 MB/s
  • Write: ~4198.7 MB/s

Co-processors

All models of the MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) come with a 16-core Neural Engine, which Apple claims enhances machine learning tasks and overall system performance.

Input Devices

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Keyboard

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 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 and an ambient light sensor.

Reviewers have praised the keyboard for its comfortable typing experience, with good key travel and feedback.

Touchpad

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with a Force Touch trackpad that offers precise cursor control and pressure-sensing capabilities. It enables Force clicks, accelerators, pressure-sensitive drawing, and Multi-Touch gestures.

Reviewers have noted that the larger trackpad enhances user experience, making it easier to perform gestures and navigate the system.

Webcam

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) features a 1080p FaceTime HD camera with an advanced image signal processor and computational video.

Reviewers have noted that the webcam provides decent quality for video calls, though it lacks advanced features like Face ID or Center Stage.

Microphone

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with a studio-quality three-mic array with a high signal-to-noise ratio and directional beamforming.

Reviewers have noted that the microphone quality is satisfactory for video calls and recordings.

Output Devices

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Display

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) features a 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a native resolution of 3456-by-2234 at 254 pixels per inch. It supports ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, XDR (Extreme Dynamic Range) with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and a peak brightness of 1600 nits for HDR content.

Reviewers have praised the display for its excellent color accuracy and brightness, making it suitable for creative work. The display quality is high, contributing to a positive user experience, especially for creative tasks.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum SDR brightness: ~630 nits
• Maximum HDR brightness: ~1625 nits

Audio

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers, wide stereo sound, and support for Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos.

Reviewers have noted that the 16-inch model produces noticeably louder mids and more bass, enhancing the audio experience for music and videos.

Connectivity

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WiFi

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), which supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for fast internet connectivity.

Reviewers have noted that the Wi-Fi performance is reliable, with good transfer rates.

Benchmarks:

• iperf3 transmit: ~1726 MBit/s
• iperf3 receive: ~1752 MBit/s

Bluetooth

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with Bluetooth 5.3.

SD Card Reader

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) includes an SDXC card slot.

Reviewers have noted that the SD card reader is functional and efficient, allowing for easy data transfer from cameras and other devices.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test: ~226.7 MB/s

USB

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is equipped with the following USB ports:

• 3 x USB-C 4.0 with Thunderbolt 4
• 1 x HDMI 2.1
• 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack

Reviewers have noted that the USB ports provide ample connectivity options for peripherals.

Display Outputs

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) supports the following display outputs:

• Supports up to four external displays: 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 (M3 Max)
• Supports up to two external displays with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz (M3 Pro)
• Supports one external display with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz (M3)

Case

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The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is available in Space Black color and features an aluminum chassis. The dimensions are 14.01 inches (35.57 cm) in width, 9.77 inches (24.81 cm) in depth, and 0.66 inches (1.68 cm) in height, with a weight of 4.7 pounds (2.14 kg).

Reviewers have noted that the design is robust and high-quality, providing a premium feel and durability. The larger size allows for better cooling and reduced fan noise, but it is more challenging to carry and fit into bags.

Maintenance

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The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is secured by Pentalobe screws, making it difficult to open. Most components are soldered, limiting upgradeability.

Cooling System

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The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) features an efficient cooling system with dual fans that maintain low temperatures under load.

Heat

Reviewers have noted that the device stays cool during use, even under load, with maximum temperatures around 42 °C during heavy workloads.

Benchmarks:

• Maximum temperature: ~42 °C

Noise

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) operates quietly under normal use, with minimal fan noise. However, during intensive tasks, the fans can become more noticeable. The 16-core model has higher fan noise and power usage during stress tests, peaking at around 54 Watts, while the 14-core model peaks at around 45 Watts.

Benchmarks:

• Idle: ~23.7 dB(A)
• Load: ~42.8 dB(A)
• Maximum load: ~55.2 dB(A)

Energy Management

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Power Consumption

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) ships with a 96W USB-C Power Adapter for M3 Pro and M3 Max configurations. Apple claims that the M3 Max uses less power in low power mode (20 watts) while maintaining performance, showcasing its efficiency.

Reviewers have noted that the M3 Max shows better power efficiency despite higher performance, with a maximum power usage of 49 watts during tests.

Battery Life

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with a 99.6 Wh Li-Polymer battery. Apple claims up to 22 hours of Apple TV app movie playback for the M3 configuration and up to 18 hours for the M3 Pro and M3 Max configurations.

Reviewers have noted that the battery life is significantly improved, with the M3 Max retaining 14% battery after extensive testing, while the M2 Max is at 5%. The battery performance is a significant advantage, especially for a 16-inch model, making it suitable for extended use.

Benchmarks:

• WiFi Websurfing (150 nits): ~20h 04min
• WiFi Websurfing max. Brightness: ~7h 27min
• Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p: ~24h 41min
• Load (maximum brightness): ~1h 23min

Biometrics

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The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) features Touch ID integrated into the power button, providing secure login options and enhancing user security.

Software

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All SKUs ship with macOS Sonoma, which includes various built-in apps such as Safari, Mail, Messages, FaceTime, Find My, GarageBand, iMovie, Keynote, Pages, Numbers, Photos, Podcasts, and more.

Preinstalled Software

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with various preinstalled software, including productivity and creative tools provided by Apple.

Linux Support

While the MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is primarily designed for macOS, Linux can be installed through virtualization or dual-boot setups. However, support may vary.

Accessories & Warranty

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The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) comes with a 96W USB-C Power Adapter and a USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable (2 m).

Apple provides 90 days of complimentary technical support and a one-year limited warranty.

Reviews Summary

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Overall Sentiment

The MacBook Pro 16 (Late 2023) is highly regarded for its performance, efficiency, and battery life. It is considered a strong choice for professionals and power users who require a high-performance laptop for demanding tasks. The device's high-quality construction, excellent display, and robust overall package make it a compelling option.

Problems Summary

• Limited upgradeability due to soldered components.
• Higher fan noise during intensive tasks.
• Lack of advanced webcam features like Face ID or Center Stage.
• Larger size and weight make it less portable.

Links

M3 Max 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, 48 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: MaxTech Review

M3 Max 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, 48 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: MaxTech Review

M3 Pro 12-core CPU, 18-core GPU, 18 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD: NotebookCheck Review

M3 Max 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, 48 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NotebookCheck Review