We know about the Apple MacBook Pro series as premium-build quality, powerful, and innovative laptop. And the latest MacBook Pro 16 M2 addition to this lineup may just exceed our expectations.
So, are you curious about the brand new Apple M2 processor and all it has to offer in the laptop market?
In this guide, you will learn more than that. We include all the information you need to know about the Apple MacBook Pro 16 M2 laptop, such as its specifications, design, features, performance, and much more.
Apple MacBook Pro 16 M2: Available Versions and Specs
Whether you are a professional user, a creative artist, a student, or a tech enthusiast, this review will help you discover everything you need to know about the new Pro 16. So let’s dive in and discover the world of the MacBook Pro 16 M2!
To do that, we first have to look at the hardware specifications that Apple has built into the new Pro 16 model:
| Specs | M2 Pro Basic Version | M2 Pro Advanced Version | M2 Max |
| OS | macOS | macOS | macOS |
| CPU | M2 Pro (12-core CPU) | M2 Pro (12-core CPU) | M2 Max (12-core CPU) |
| RAM | 16GB DDR4 (can be configured with up to 32GB) | 16GB DDR4 (can be configured with up to 32GB) | 32GB DDR4 (can be configured with up to 96GB) |
| Storage | 512GB SSD (can be configured with up to 8TB) | 1TB SSD (can be configured with up to 8TB) | 1TB SSD (can be configured with up to 8TB) |
| Graphics | Integrated 19-core GPU (supports up to two 8K external displays) | Integrated 19-core GPU (supports up to two 8K external displays) | Integrated 38-core GPU (supports up to four 8K external displays) |
| Display | 16” Liquid Retina XDR display | 16” Liquid Retina XDR display | 16” Liquid Retina XDR display |
| Price | $2499.00 | $2699.00 | $3499.00 |
It becomes clear that the only difference between the different versions of the MacBook Pro 16 M2 is the performance. And, of course, the price. Everything else, from the design to the display and supported accessories, remains the same. Let us take a closer look.
Early 2023 Apple MacBook Pro 16: Overview
Design and Display
Like most Apple devices, the new MacBook Pro 16 features an excellent design and a first-class display. This is true for all versions that we have examined above.
The MacBook Pro 16 M2 features a stunning 16-inch Retina XDR display that gives users an immersive visual experience. The display features XDR technology, which improves dynamic range and contrast, making colors more vivid and accurate.
Creative professionals will especially appreciate the sizable 16-inch 16:10 aspect ratio display, which is large enough to have side-by-side tabs open or do a split-screen. And if you think that this Mac Pro might be too large to bring on a quick business trip, check out our earlier MacBook Pro 14 vs. MacBook Pro 16 comparison article.
In addition, the MacBook Pro 16 M2 features a sleek and modern design with a narrow profile and minimal bezels to meet the demands of the market. The device is made of high-quality materials such as aluminum and glass, offering a refined and elegant look.
In other words, when it comes to the design and the display, our verdict for the new Pro 16 is 10/10!
Performance
The Apple MacBook Pro 16 M2 laptop is a powerhouse in terms of performance. The M2 Pro and M2 Max chipsets deliver exceptional processing power and speed. The M2 Pro features a 12-core chipset with a 19-core GPU, while the M2 Max features a 12-core chipset with a 38-core GPU, providing more power for demanding tasks.
In addition, the integrated GPUs in both chipsets ensure smooth and fast graphics processing, making the MacBook Pro 16 M2 the ideal choice for creative professionals working with complex editing applications (3D graphics rendering, animation, etc.).
All versions of the MacBook Pro 16 M2 are designed to meet the needs of demanding users, with fast SSD storage, high-speed memory, and advanced cooling systems that ensure optimal performance even under heavy workloads.
As such, Apple has delivered the top-notch performance you would expect from such a high-end (and expensive) laptop.
Connectivity and Accessories
Unlike previous Mac Pro versions, the new 16-inch M2-based notebook provides users with a versatile range of connectivity options. The device includes all the ports and wireless connections someone needs to connect to a wide range of external accessories and devices.
More precisely, all versions of the MacBook Pro 16 M2 have three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port (, an SDXC card slot, a headphone jack, and a MagSafe 3 port. This ensures that users can easily connect to a variety of external displays, storage devices, audio peripherals, and other accessories.
Additionally, the device supports a range of wireless connections, including Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and 5G cellular connectivity, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
Price
The latest MacBook Pro 16 M2 is definitely one of the most expensive laptops out there. But, truth be told, it fully justifies its price tag.
Not only does the MacBook Pro 16 M2 offer top-of-the-line performance, connectivity, and display quality, but it also provides a range of features that are tailored to meet the needs of demanding users and creative professionals.
The device also sports a variety of advanced security features, including Touch ID and the Apple T2 Security Chip, to protect the user’s data and privacy.
All in all, the MacBook Pro 16 M2 is an investment in quality and performance that you will surely work with reliably and efficiently for years. But is such an investment worthwhile in your case?
Who is the New MacBook Pro 16 M2 For?
As mentioned above, this laptop is perfect for professional and demanding users like:
- Creative Professionals: Graphic designers, video and music editors, and animators will enjoy the almost endless capabilities of the Pro 16 M2.
- Programmers: The MacBook Pro 16 M2’s powerful processors and fast storage make it an ideal laptop for programmers who work with large codebases and require fast compile times.
- Business Professionals: The MacBook Pro 16 M2’s sleek and portable design, advanced security features, and connectivity options make it a top choice for business professionals who need a high-performance laptop for work on the go.
No one can deny that the 2023 MacBook Pro 16 M2 is a top-notch device. But this laptop is probably not the best solution for:
- Casual Users and Students: The MacBook Pro 16 M2 is simply too powerful (and expensive) to be used for simple desk-based tasks like word processing or video streaming. Most mid-tier laptops, like the Lenovo Yoga 9i can easily cope with the needs of a casual user or a student and come at a much lower price.
- Gamers: Even though the powerful integrated GPU of the M2 Pro and Max can handle games, most gamers prefer Windows gaming laptops like the Alienware x17 R2 or the Razer Blade 16 that come with dedicated GPUs and have a better price.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, the MacBook Pro 16 M2 is an outstanding device that delivers top-of-the-line performance, display quality, and connectivity options, making it a top choice for professional and demanding users.
If you don’t require such high-end features but are still an Apple fan, there is always the option of purchasing a used MacBook Pro model to save money. Platforms like Gadget Salvation offer a reliable and convenient way to find quality pre-owned Apple devices at a fraction of the price of a brand new model. Furthermore, you can even sell your old Apple computer with us!
