Apple M3 Ultra Mac Studio Launches with 32 CPU and 80 GPU Cores
Apple Mac Studio: A Comprehensive Look at the Latest Powerhouse
Apple has recently introduced an upgraded version of its Mac Studio, and it’s making waves with some impressive specifications. The updated Mac Studio can be configured with up to 32 CPU cores and 80 GPU cores, along with a maximum of 512GB of unified memory. This new device promises to be one of the most powerful computers Apple has ever produced, aimed at users who need heavy processing power.
What’s Inside the New Mac Studio?
M3 Ultra Chip
While you might expect the latest Mac Studio to showcase Apple’s newest M4 processor, the high-end model actually features the M3 Ultra. The base model comes equipped with the M4, which is also used in the MacBook Pros introduced last fall.
The M3 Ultra chip is essentially two M3 Max processors combined using a technique called “UltraFusion,” which is Apple’s unique packaging technology. This combination results in a staggering 184 billion transistors. Compared to the previous M2 Ultra, the M3 Ultra improves the CPU functionality significantly, now offering up to 32 cores—increasing from 24 cores in the M2 Ultra.
Performance Boost
The performance uplift is noteworthy. Apple claims that the M3 Ultra delivers about 50% more power than its predecessor, the M2 Ultra, and about 80% compared to the original M1 Ultra. This performance boost is particularly beneficial for demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
GPU Enhancements
The graphics processing unit (GPU) also sees some enhancements. The maximum now stands at 80 cores, up from 76 in the M2 Ultra. However, most of the improvements come from architecture changes rather than just adding more cores. Apple emphasizes that its M3 GPU architecture is around 80% faster than that of the M2, thanks to advancements in mesh shading and ray tracing.
Neural Engine
In addition to the CPU and GPU improvements, the M3 Ultra is equipped with a 32-core Neural Engine. This enhancement boosts the machine’s capabilities for AI tasks. With the rise in popularity of large language models (LLMs), having a robust Neural Engine is crucial for performance in AI workloads.
Memory Specs and Bandwidth
The memory capacity of the M3 Ultra can be configured up to 512GB, making it one of the best choices for researchers and businesses working with large datasets or complex models. This high memory capacity allows for handling AI tasks effectively, including running LLMs with over 600 billion parameters.
For users interested in memory bandwidth, the new Mac Studio offers an impressive 800 GB/s. This feature is particularly relevant for those running resource-intensive applications, making tasks such as deep learning feasible right at home.
Price Considerations
The Mac Studio with the M3 Ultra starts at an attractive price point, but upgrading memory and storage can significantly increase the cost. Choosing to upgrade to the maximum memory of 512GB adds around $5,500 to the base price, landing at nearly $9,500 before storage upgrades. If you go for the maximum 16TB storage, the total can reach a staggering $14,099.
Base Model Specifications
The base model of the Mac Studio is equipped with the M4 Max, which features up to 16 CPU cores, a 40-core GPU, and a maximum of 128GB of memory. Storage is capped at 8TB. Given the high prices Apple charges for inbuilt storage, many users might consider external options like USB4 or Thunderbolt drives for additional capacity.
MacBook Air Updates
Alongside the Mac Studio, Apple has revitalized its MacBook Air lineup with the M4 chip. This model features improved specifications, including support for multiple monitors, making it a good choice for both casual users and professionals on the go.
M4 Chip Features
The M4 chip in the MacBook Air can have up to 10 CPU cores and a similar number of GPU cores, although the entry-level version has two fewer GPU cores. Memory has been doubled to 16GB from previous models, but the SSD remains at 256GB. Upgrading features pushes the price higher quickly, a common trend with Apple products.
Pricing for MacBook Air
The 13-inch MacBook Air starts at $999, while the 15-inch model begins at $1,199. However, upgrading memory and storage can become pricey, making users feel the pinch as they customize their devices. A fully-equipped 15-inch model can quickly reach up to $2,400, inching into the territory of the MacBook Pro.
Availability
Both the refreshed MacBook Air and Mac Studio are currently available for preorder and will be officially released on March 12.
In summary, Apple’s latest offerings, including the powerful M3 Ultra-equipped Mac Studio and the refreshed MacBook Air with the M4 chip, cater to a wide range of users. These devices promise impressive performance and features that are especially beneficial for professionals in creative fields and for AI research enthusiasts.
