In just over a year since its debut in 2022, Apple has given the Mac Studio a refresh, introducing the M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips. So, the question arises: Is it worth upgrading from the first-generation model to the latest one? Moreover, is the original Mac Studio still a worthy purchase?
The primary upgrade in the new Mac Studio revolves around its chip. It has transitioned from the M1 Max and M1 Ultra to the M2 Max and M2 Ultra. These newer chips offer notable improvements, including a CPU that’s 20 percent faster, a larger GPU boasting up to 30 percent more power, and a Neural Engine that’s up to 40 percent faster.
Beyond these performance boosts, the new chips also enable larger memory capacities, support for additional external displays, and embrace newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key features, changes, and enhancements introduced in the latest Mac Studio compared to its predecessor:
Mac Studio (Second-Generation, 2023)
- Powered by Apple M2 Max or M2 Ultra chip
- Offers up to a 24-core CPU
- Equipped with up to a 76-core GPU
- Supports up to 192GB of unified memory
- Features HDMI 2.1 port
- Can handle up to eight 4K displays, six 6K displays, or three 8K displays
- Boasts 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E
- Incorporates Bluetooth 5.3
Mac Studio (First-Generation, 2022)
- Runs on Apple M1 Max or M1 Ultra chip
- Provides up to a 20-core CPU
- Includes up to a 64-core GPU
- Supports up to 128GB of unified memory
- Features HDMI 2.0 port
- Compatible with up to four Pro Display XDRs and one 4K display
- Offers 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6
- Includes Bluetooth 5.0
For most existing Mac Studio users, upgrading to the new model may not be necessary. Consider an upgrade only if you require more than 128GB of memory or can harness the power of the additional four CPU cores and twelve GPU cores found in the M2 Ultra chip.
Furthermore, if you need to work with more than four 6K external displays, or even want to utilize an 8K external display, the new model unlocks these capabilities. However, it’s important to note that these enhancements will be directly relevant to a rather niche group of users. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, while offering minor benefits and future-proofing, aren’t game-changing upgrades.
Given these considerations, if you don’t currently own a Mac Studio, it might still be worthwhile to purchase the original model if you find it at a significantly lower price through third-party retailers or the second-hand market. The original Mac Studio continues to deliver exceptional performance, surpassing the capabilities of most Macs. It retains nearly all the same ports and connectivity options as the new model.
Conclusion :
Whether you’re an existing Mac Studio user contemplating an upgrade or someone eyeing a new purchase, understanding the distinctions between the two generations is essential in making an informed decision.