Is the Next MacBook Pro's Graphics Outdated Given New NVIDIA GTX 1080M Chip?

As the tech world buzzes with the recent release of the NVIDIA GTX 1080M chip, the question arises: will Apple's upcoming MacBook Pro release have outdated graphics specs? Let's dive into the current state of MacBook Pro's graphics and whether they might be lagging behind with the introduction of this new GPU.

Overview of Current MacBook Pro Graphics

Before the release of the updated MacBook lineup, the best graphics specs in the MacBook Pro were already laughable. The previously used AMD mobile GPUs did not perform nearly as well as a laptop with a 960M chip. It's essential to understand that the MacBook was never designed to be a gaming or high-performance powerhouse. Instead, it was tailored for productivity with occasional entertainment.

Use Case for the MacBook Pro

The primary use case for the MacBook Pro is driving multiple screens at decent performance. That's it. High performance graphics are not a necessity for most professional users. The MacBook Pro is not meant to be a gaming laptop, high-performance computing device, or the ultimate in any category. Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability.

Why Reliability Matters in Professional Settings

For professionals, particularly busy professionals, the fact that the system just works is extremely valuable. For them, the asking price of the machine is justified because they need a dependable tool that requires minimal maintenance. If you need to play games at the highest settings or render 3D animation in real-time, then the MacBook Pro is not the machine for you.

Finding Motivation for an Upgrade

Now that we've established the current landscape, let's explore what might motivate a move up from a late 2015 MacBook Pro. Some potential upgrades include:

1. USB-C

USB-C is becoming increasingly compelling, but currently, it is more interesting than truly compelling. It will become more valuable as more devices and peripherals support it.

2. More Memory

Increasing memory might be the most appealing option. With 16GB, the system performs amazing, but for many users, 32GB could be more desirable, since zero paging is a significant advantage.

3. Faster Processor

A faster processor, while certainly useful, might not be the most motivating factor. Upgrading to a faster 5-6 core processor is a good change, but it's not a game-changer for the average user.

4. More and Faster PCIe Lanes

The 14nm process will likely offer better power efficiency, which can be a compelling upgrade for battery life and longer usage time. Additionally, if PCIe lanes are increased, particularly with the introduction of Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C, it might be worth considering.

5. Graphics Performance

From a graphics perspective, the current models aren't about massive overkill. The current R9 M37 is more than sufficient for driving 2-3 screens at 1080p to 1800p resolution. While the 1080M GTX chip from NVIDIA might be better, for most professional users, it might not be worth the potential trade-off in other essential areas.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to graphics, one size does not have to fit all. If you need high-end graphics for gaming or professional rendering, there are other machines designed specifically for that purpose. The MacBook Pro excels in its niche as a reliable and efficient productivity tool. It's highly unlikely that the upcoming refresh will feature an outdated graphics setup, given the continued demand for reliability and simplicity.