Apple’s latest MacBook Pro refresh introduces the M4 family of chips, bringing significant performance upgrades across three distinct tiers.
Each model targets different user needs and budgets, starting with the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 at PHP 99,990.
Entry-Level Excellence: M4 for the Modern Professional
The base model MacBook Pro with M4 is an ideal choice for students, entrepreneurs, and content creators who need professional capabilities without the highest-end specs. It features a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and starts with 16GB of unified memory, upgradeable to 32GB.
With three Thunderbolt 4 ports and the stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, it should handle photo editing, basic video work, and productivity tasks with ease, with performance that’s up to 1.8 times faster than the M1 MacBook Pro.
Pro Power Unleashed: M4 Pro for Serious Creators
Moving up to the MacBook Pro with M4 Pro, starting at PHP 129,990. This is a machine that’s tailored for developers, researchers and professional creatives. This model boasts a 14-core CPU, up to 20-core GPU, and significantly higher memory bandwidth. One of its standout features is Thunderbolt 5, offering double the speed of Thunderbolt 4.
Available in both 14-inch and 16-inch variants, this variant excels at software development, 3D rendering, and complex data analysis, delivering up to three times the performance of its M1 Pro predecessor.
Maximum Performance: M4 Max for the Power User
For those requiring maximum power, the MacBook Pro with M4 Max, beginning at PHP 201,990, represents the pinnacle of portable computing. Targeted at data scientists, 3D artists, and video professionals, it offers up to a 16-core CPU, 40-core GPU, and support for up to 128GB of memory. With over 500GB/s memory bandwidth, it handles AI workloads, 8K video editing, and complex 3D animation with ease, performing up to 3.5 times faster than the M1 Max.
Premium Features Across the Board
All models share several premium features, including a new 12MP Center Stage camera, Liquid Retina XDR display with optional nano-texture finish, and up to 24 hours of battery life. They come in space black or silver finishes and include built-in support for Apple Intelligence and macOS Sequoia’s new features like iPhone Mirroring.
Making Your Choice: Finding Your Perfect Match
When choosing your model, consider your primary use case and budget. The M4 variant offers excellent value for everyday computing with professional capabilities. If you need serious professional performance and Thunderbolt 5, the M4 Pro is your sweet spot. For those requiring the absolute highest performance and memory capacity, the M4 Max is the clear choice.
Just remember that storage cannot be upgraded later, so choose wisely at purchase. Educational pricing is available for eligible buyers, offering significant savings across all models.
Emman has been writing technical and feature articles since 2010. Prior to this, he became one of the instructors at Asia Pacific College in 2008, and eventually landed a job as Business Analyst and Technical Writer at Integrated Open Source Solutions for almost 3 years.