MacBook Pro 16-Inch, M1 Max, 2021

The Apple MacBook Pro "M1 Max" 10-Core CPU/24-Core GPU 16-Inch (2021) is a custom-ordered version of the standard 16-inch "M1 Pro" model, documented separately for clarity. This custom configuration typically features a different CPU, GPU, and RAM.

This model is powered by a 3.2 GHz Apple M1 Max processor with ten cores (eight performance, two efficiency), a 24-core GPU, a 16-core Neural Engine, 32 GB of onboard RAM, and either a 512 GB or 1 TB SSD. Both RAM and SSD were only upgradable at the time of purchase.

Available in silver and "Space Gray," this notebook features an integrated 1080p FaceTime HD webcam, a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers, a backlit "Magic Keyboard" with a "Touch ID" sensor (but no "Touch Bar"), and a large "Force Touch" trackpad.

It also has a high-resolution 16.2" widescreen 3456x2234 (254 ppi, 1000 nits sustained, 1600 nits peak, 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio) LED-backlit "Liquid Retina XDR" display and a battery with an estimated 14-21 hour life.

Connectivity includes 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5, three Thunderbolt 4 ports (USB-C), an HDMI 2.0 port, an SDXC card slot, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and a "MagSafe 3" power connector.

Compared to its predecessor, the 16" "2021" MacBook Pro shares little in common, offering a superior display, a simpler keyboard, greatly expanded external connectivity, and a completely different internal architecture with faster performance.

The 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Max, even in its 24-core GPU configuration, was a powerhouse that redefined expectations for a professional laptop. It combined the same potent 10-core CPU found in other high-end models with a formidable graphics engine, delivering exceptional performance that remained consistent whether plugged in or on battery. The larger chassis provided an excellent thermal envelope, allowing the M1 Max to sustain peak performance without significant throttling. This model was praised for bringing back essential ports like HDMI and the SD card slot, and for its stunning 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology. Coupled with a massive 100-watt-hour battery, it offered incredible endurance, making it a truly mobile workstation for the most demanding creative tasks.