Random-access memory (RAM) is one of the most vital components influencing a computer‘s speed and capability. As Apple‘s high-end portable Mac, the MacBook Pro now offers buyers a choice between 32GB and 64GB of unified memory architecture (Apple‘s term for RAM). But how much does that extra memory matter? This expert analysis compares the 32GB and 64GB MacBook Pro models across benchmarks, real-world usage, target users, cost, and more.
What is RAM and Why Does it Matter?
Before comparing RAM capacities, let‘s define what RAM is and why it‘s so important for system performance.
RAM stands for random access memory. It temporarily stores the data and code required by running applications and OS processes so the computer‘s processor can access them much faster than reading from the internal solid state drive (SSD) storage. The more RAM available, the more data can sit in ready-to-use memory at once instead of relying on virtual memory paging from the SSD which is far slower.
For pro users running intensive creative and development tools, RAM capacity plays a huge role influencing workflow speed and snappiness. Insufficient RAM leads to constant virtual memory paging as the computer struggles. The system bogs down trying to manage the data flow between RAM and SSD storage. Upgrading from 16GB to 32GB RAM makes a very noticeable difference in responsiveness for pro MacBook Pro users.
Now the question is — does jumping from 32GB to 64GB of unified memory provide another major boost? Let‘s investigate.
M1 Pro vs M1 Max: Understanding the RAM Differences
The 2021 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models showcase Apple Silicon‘s prowess with both M1 Pro and M1 Max custom chips. The M1 Pro scales up to 32GB RAM while the M1 Max reaches 64GB. Comparing 32GB vs 64GB configurations requires examining how the M1 Pro and M1 Max handle memory.
M1 Pro
- Up to 32GB unified memory
- 200GB/s memory bandwidth
- 16-core GPU
- Supports connecting up to two external displays
M1 Max
- Up to 64GB unified memory (+32GB over M1 Pro)
- 400GB/s memory bandwidth (+200GB/s over M1 Pro)
- 32-core GPU (+16 cores over M1 Pro)
- Supports connecting up to four external displays (+2 over M1 Pro)
The M1 Max chip brings not only double the RAM capacity but also 2x more memory bandwidth. This means it can handle moving data in and out of RAM much faster. The more powerful GPU benefits from having so much fast memory available too. The 64GB configuration equips Apple‘s top mobile chip for peak performance.
But what does that translate to in real-world use? Let‘s examine some test results.
Performance and Benchmark Comparison
Apple shared impressive benchmark claims during their "Unleashed" October 2021 event where the latest MacBook Pro models debuted:
- Export an 8K video in Final Cut Pro up to 2x faster (M1 Max with 64GB RAM vs M1 Max with 32GB RAM)
- Render complex 3D title sequences in Maxon Cinema 4D up to 2x faster (M1 Max 64GB vs 32GB)
Independent testing largely confirms Apple‘s numbers. In video editing and 3D rendering tasks that are both core intensive and memory intensive, the 64GB RAM configuration consistently completes exports around 20-30% quicker.
For example, YouTuber Jonathan Morrison found the 64GB M1 Max exported his 8K test clip in Adobe Premiere Pro 11% faster than the 32GB model.
The performance gap does narrow in tasks or apps that don‘t require massive amounts of memory. But pro users running slim as 64GB RAM still benefits in having unused capacity for holding cache files and assets. This prevents slowdowns when working with large media libraries.
Overall both benchmark testing and hands-on usage make clear the 64GB RAM upgrade produces a real-world speed increase from 5-30% depending on workload. That‘s not revolutionary but still a nice boost.
Ideal Users for 32GB vs 64GB RAM Models
Given the 64GB RAM option costs an extra $400 over 32GB, who will benefit enough to justify the upgrade cost?
32GB M1 Pro Good For
- Music producers
- Casual video editors
- Students
- Business users
64GB M1 Max Best for
- Professional video editors
- 3D modelers/animators
- Developers (compiling large codebases)
- Power users running multiple pro apps and huge files
For many buyers, even prosumer level photo and video editors, 32GB RAM offers plenty of comfortable headroom. But hardcore creators working in 6K – 8K and building complex Visual FX will put 64GB to good use. The ultra-smooth workflow speed can directly translate to getting client work done faster and allowing more hourly billable time.
Developers also populate RAM with compiled program data. Those coding massive applications or running multiple virtual machines/emulators at once will take advantage of maxing out memory capacity. Overall the 64GB upgrade makes the most financial sense for buyers who already spend $3,000+ on a MacBook Pro 16-inch.
Cost Considerations: 32GB vs 64GB RAM Upgrades
Let‘s break down the price differences when configuring a high-end 2021 16-inch MacBook Pro:
| Model | RAM | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Baseline 14-core M1 Pro | 16GB | $2,499 |
| Upgrade to 32GB RAM | +$400 | $2,899 |
| Upgrade to M1 Max (10-core CPU) | +$500 | $2,999 |
| Upgrade M1 Max to 64GB RAM | +$400 | $3,399 |
As you can see, Apple charges a consistent $400 to double the RAM whether going from 16GB to 32GB or 32GB to 64GB. Given the fixed pricing, the value relative to performance increase falls off at the high end. Still, for hardcore power users, shaving seconds per hour over years of work does add up.
There‘s also an element of future-proofing. While 32GB RAM might be overkill for today‘s apps and OSes, in 3-5 years that capacity will likely fit common usage better just like 16GB does now versus 5 years ago. Starting with 64GB unified memory sets up the MacBook Pro to comfortably last 5+ years without feeling RAM constrained as software evolves.
Historical Context Around MacBook Pro RAM Capacity
Looking back through MacBook Pro history also lends some perspective to the remarkable memory capacities available today:
| Year | MacBook Pro Max RAM |
|---|---|
| Early 2006 – 2008 | 4GB |
| Early 2008 – Mid 2012 | 8GB |
| Mid 2012 – Late 2016 | 16GB |
| Late 2016 – Mid 2019 | 32GB |
| Oct 2021 – Current | 64GB |
It took 15 years for Apple to go from 4GB maximum MacBook Pro RAM to 64GB — a 16x increase in capacity. Moore‘s Law around doubling transistor density proved consistent even through shifting from Intel chips to Apple Silicon.
Expect a 128GB RAM option for high-end MacBook Pros in another 5 years or so. The march towards exponentially greater computing power continues unabated!
Recommendation: Choosing 32GB or 64GB RAM Wisely
At the end of the day, there is no universally "right" choice between 32GB vs 64GB RAM on the MacBook Pro. The better option depends completely on individual needs and budget.
For most general prosumer use, even moderate 4K video editing and music production, 32GB unified memory offers an excellent experience. Stepping up from the base 16GB makes everything far smoother if you can afford the $400 upgrade cost over base models.
On the other hand, hardcore creative professionals working extensively in 8K, 3D rendering, or compiling massive software projects will find the 64GB RAM capacity well utilized. The M1 Max chip also needs memory to feed its powerful 32-core GPU. If ultimate portable power matters more than cost, upgrade to 64GB.
Of course you can‘t go wrong maxing out any laptop you buy either. Future-proofing means 64GB likely to feel fast for at least 5 years even as software complexity increases. Evaluate your budget, performance needs, and desire for cutting-edge specs to decide on 32GB vs 64GB RAM. Let the pro workflow you plan run dictate the ideal MacBook Pro memory capacity.
