When Apple introduced the MacBook Pro with the M4 chip last October, many thought it was simply a processor refresh with no major surprises. But those who have taken the time to analyze this laptop, as we have, have discovered something that goes far beyond a simple technical improvement.
It’s probably the best MacBook Pro you can buy right now, even if you already have a relatively recent model. And it’s not just because of what it offers, but also because of its price.
The best device of the moment
For years, Apple has accustomed us to paying more for less. But with the arrival of the M4 chip, that’s changed. The base model of the 14-inch MacBook Pro now costs €1,929 and comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, a configuration that previously cost about €300 more. It doesn’t have the Pro chip, true, but it does offer a more balanced and sensible experience for most users, even creative professionals who don’t push the laptop to the limits of its GPU.
The most obvious change is in battery life. The leap from the M1 Pro to the M4 in this area is so remarkable it seems like science fiction. Apple promises up to 16 hours of web browsing on a single charge, compared to 11 hours for the previous model. But if we’re talking only about streaming content, that figure stretches to 24 hours.
However, what really makes the difference is how it manages power consumption in the background. While the M1 Pro had only two efficiency cores, the M4 has six. That means less heat, less fan usage, and a consistently fluid feel. In real-world use, the laptop lasts much longer without needing to go near a power outlet, something that completely changes the relationship you establish with your computer.
On the other hand, we have its incredible display. Although all 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros use mini-LED panels, not all of them shine equally. The M4 is the first to offer up to 1,000 nits of standard brightness, for much better outdoor visibility and a noticeable visual leap.
MacBook Pro M4: Power at a Lower Price
In the video camera department, another subtle but important change is the addition of Center Stage, a feature we already knew from the iPad and Studio Display. This technology allows the camera to follow you during a video call and adjust the framing if you move, keeping you in the center of attention. The result is a much more natural and professional experience, both in FaceTime and other similar apps. It also enables features like Desk View, which shows what’s on your desktop without moving your laptop.
But what’s surprising is that, even without the “Pro” label on the chip, the M4 outperforms many previous models that did. In Geekbench 6 tests, the power jump compared to the M1 Pro is remarkable: 57% more single-core performance and 19% more multi-core performance. And with much greater energy efficiency. In addition, the new generation improves the performance of the Neural Engine, something increasingly relevant in an era dominated by artificial intelligence.
All of this, coupled with potential tariffs that could make laptops more expensive in the coming months and Apple’s impending price adjustments, makes now one of the best times to get an M4 MacBook Pro.
