Top 5 Best MacBook Pro of 2025
We review the best Apple MacBook Pro laptops for everyone
These are my top picks for anyone in search of the best MacBook Pro, based on our review of over 1800 laptops, MacBooks, and Chromebooks.
The greatest MacBook Pro laptop available right now is the Apple MacBook Pro (M4), which can do anything from run office applications to edit videos professionally. It also has what may be the greatest screen available on a laptop, and it meets all of my requirements.
The greatest MacBook and Macs, the best MacBook and Macs for business, and the best MacBook and Macs for video editing are all included in our reviews of Apple products. These laptops have performed exceptionally well in every category throughout our testing and assessment, from performance to long-lasting battery life. See the whole round-up below. Our staff has thoroughly benchmarked every model that is presented.
Table of Contents
BEST OVERALL
1. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4)
BEST ON A BUDGET
2. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3)
BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS
3. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Max)
BEST M3
4. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Max)
BEST M2
5. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M2 Pro)
1. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4)
A tribute to the raw power of Apple’s M4 chip, specifically the high-end M4 Max CPU, the new MacBook Pro 14in is more than just a new laptop. Due to their big memory capacity (128GB) and more CPU and GPU cores, the top-end models exhibit higher performance. The fundamental M4 model has fewer cores and less memory, but it still includes sophisticated capabilities like mesh shading, hardware-based ray tracing, and a quick neural network.
This MacBook Pro is distinguished by its design, which includes the macOS Sequoia platform, a highly acclaimed keyboard, and the option of a fingerprint-resistant Space Black finish, providing versatility for a range of tasks. It is regarded as the greatest MacBook available right now.
From the base model to the M4 Pro and M4 Max, the entire MacBook Pro 14 M4 series, in our opinion, ranks among the best laptops on the market. The M4 Max configuration is also a strong candidate for the best gaming laptop list and the best portable workstation because of its immense power and capability.
2. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3)
You can purchase a last-generation MacBook Pro with the M3 processor for a fair price. The MacBook Pro 14-inch M3 is still a strong laptop for anything from office work to video editing, even though it lacks the capability of the more recent (and more costly) M4 models.
It performs exceptionally well in graphically demanding tasks, just like any other MacBook Pro. But we also discovered that it was incredibly good at gaming . Like contemporary MacBooks, it has one of the greatest laptop screens thanks to the Liquid Retina Display, which has a wide color gamut, True Tone technology, and ProMotion technology that provides a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
The M1 and M2 variants are also worth looking into if you’re looking for an even less expensive MacBook Pro. Even while these machines don’t have as much power as the more recent ones, they still function very well overall. See our evaluation of the MacBook Air M4 for a non-Pro model; if your needs are simpler, this is a great choice.
3. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro)
In 2024, Apple’s M4 Pro and M4 Max CPUs power the MacBook Pro 16, which raises the bar for high-performance computers. With up to 128GB of unified memory and cutting-edge CPU and GPU cores, the M4 Max configuration offers unparalleled power. From 3D rendering and large-scale simulations to complex video editing tasks and answering a few emails, it is designed to handle anything you put it through.
A true show-stopper is the 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display. With its buttery-smooth ProMotion technology, 1,600 nits of peak brightness, and superb color accuracy, it’s the largest and brightest display in Apple’s lineup. The screen’s roomy arrangement allows you to concentrate and create like never before, regardless of your level of creativity or multitasking prowess.
Not to mention the Space Black finish, which is both fashionable and practical. No matter how frequently you use it, the fingerprint-resistant anodized coating keeps it looking nice and clean. Although the MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4 Pro/Max) is not inexpensive, it is designed for individuals who expect the highest quality. This is the best laptop if you want the best performance, versatility, and one that can keep up with your creative output.
4. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Max)
The M3 Max-powered model, which was once the top-end MacBook Pro, is still a really impressive laptop. We highly recommend it if you’re seeking for sheer power at a somewhat lower price point than the M4 Max variants.
With its remarkable 16.2-inch display, Liquid Retina XDR technology, 1,600 nits of maximum brightness, and 120Hz ProMotion technology, the MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3) offers a sharp and responsive visual experience. A variety of ports are also included for improved connectivity.
Performance-wise, the MacBook Pro is a beast. This MBP laptop easily managed demanding activities during our evaluation process, such as editing 4K film, and in a significant change, even demonstrated the ability to run the newest games. Our own benchmark tests revealed a 35% boost in Geekbench 6 single core CPU speed and a 69% increase in multi-core performance when compared to the M1 Max. Additionally, we performed our routine battery life test, and the laptop performed well, providing over 24 hours of life on a single charge. That’s impressive, but it didn’t last as long when gaming as it did when doing less demanding chores.
Admittedly, the MacBook Pro M3 Max is a pricey gadget, and not everyone will need the kind of performance and power this one offers. However, this one is highly recommended for those who do.
5. Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M2 Pro)
With its powerful M2 Pro and M2 Max CPU, we discovered that the Apple MacBook Pro offered lightning-fast speeds and seamless operation for a wide range of applications, including office and productivity programs as well as photo and video editing tools. Although the design is essentially the same as its predecessor, there is a considerable improvement in specifications.
The construction quality is superb as usual. The keyboard and trackpad are a true delight to use, and it feels sturdy and long-lasting in the hand. But the most striking feature of this laptop—and, in fact, of all the top MacBook Pro models—is that screen. In our evaluation, we discovered that it effectively produces vivid colors and a rich, deep contrast thanks to its 3024 x 1964 resolution, Liquid Retina XDR display, and mini-LED technology. The machine has a good number of ports elsewhere. Most users should be satisfied with the option, which offers three Thunderbolt 4 connections and one HDMI port.
Performance-wise, the M2 Pro can readily manage demanding workloads. Few people will require the M2 Max’s full capabilities, while it’s a good choice for things like high-resolution professional video editing.
Which is superior, the MacBook Air or the MacBook Pro?
Despite being an excellent laptop, the MacBook Air is not designed for the most demanding creative professionals, therefore it may not have the memory, storage, and processing power required for high-end creative workflows. The MacBook Pro is the best option if you have to do a lot of creative content work or if you need a durable computer and are prepared to spend a little more than you would on a MacBook Air. If so, expand your digital workspace to a larger display by pairing it with the best MacBook Pro monitors for the highest color fidelity. Simply take note of how many displays your MacBook can connect to by default, then get one of the top docking stations to increase the number of ports and monitors you can use.
Which year is the greatest for MacBook Pro models?
To be honest, this isn’t as simple a question as it may appear. Our ideal choice is the MacBook Pro 14-inch with an M4-series chip, although even if the M3 or M3 Pro chips were released more recently, an M2 Max MacBook Pro will perform better. Since older models may be less expensive than current versions while still providing the performance you require, it all depends on your budget and performance requirements. Now that the M4 has been out, some of the customers who still love their M1-series MacBook Pros are even thinking about upgrading. It really depends on you, your needs, your financial situation, and the ongoing offers. Because the MacBook Pro is known to last a long time, don’t assume that your older model will be replaced anytime soon simply because a new one came out.
Price and performance are the two most important considerations when selecting a MacBook Pro because there aren’t many differences between the designs and screens of the MacBook Pros on our list. Only minor variations in specs, transfer speeds, port offerings, and styling.
If you’re on a tighter budget, the 13-inch and 14-inch M2-series MacBook Pros are excellent, and you can get up to an M2 Max in a 15-inch MacBook Pro. Older models and smaller sizes will be less expensive. A 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Max is the greatest option if you have a lot of money to spare. It will last you a lot longer than other models, which is wonderful for future-proofing, but it will also be the most expensive by far.
You shouldn’t want more than 24GB or 32GB of memory unless you’re performing a lot of video editing with very huge source files at high resolutions. For most users, 1TB of storage will be more than sufficient. Video professionals will undoubtedly want at least 32GB and 2TB, and more memory and storage options are advised.
You can get away with smaller storage capacities if you operate mostly on the cloud or don’t handle large files, or you can use some of the best external hard drives for Mac to increase your storage at a lower cost than you might find internal storage.
Ultimately, determine which component—processor, storage, ports, or screen—is most important, and then search for the best combination based on that determination. Any MacBook Pro will do for the majority of people, so focus on what is essential and proceed accordingly.
Check out our reviews of the top MacBook Pro accessories for further laptop accessories.