Should You Wait for the M1X MacBook Pro or Opt for the Current M1 Chip?

With the release of the Apple Silicon M1 Pro and M1 Max in 2021, many consumers are questioning whether to wait for the rumored M1X or opt for the current M1 MacBook Pro. This article will explore the benefits and drawbacks of both options, helping you make an informed decision.

The M1X Myth and Reality

There is no such thing as an M1X. As of now, Apple has not officially announced this model, and rumors suggest it is simply a superset of either the M1 Pro or M1 Max chips, featuring an extended number of cores. According to the insider information, it is expected to be released in October.

The Cost Comparison

The potential base model of the M1X is likely to cost $1999. The current M1 MacBook Pro is a beefed-up version of the M1 MacBook Air, offering marginally better features such as a trackpad, speakers, microphones, screen, cooling system, GPU, and battery. Some reviewers recommend the Air over the Pro due to the better benefits that the Air provides, making up the $300-$400 price difference or bringing it down to $899 with a sale.

Key Differentiators Between M1X and M1 MacBook Pro

The M1X is anticipated to be a powerful machine with two more CPU cores and either eight or twenty-four more GPU cores. Not only will it offer better hardware, it is also expected to feature additional ports, such as a full-size SD card slot and USB-A port, as well as an updated screen size and a 2021-style aesthetic. For these reasons, the more premium model of the M1X could cost up to $2999.

Performance and Battery Life

If you require high performance and are willing to pay top dollar for the potential best laptop ever made, waiting for the M1X could be a smart move. The current M1 chip provides nearly 20 hours of battery life and will not be surpassed by the larger M1X. However, the new chip is expected to have twice the GPU power and potentially twelve CPU cores, making it an ideal choice for content creation and similar tasks.

Apple’s Stakes

Apple is well aware of the potential impact of the M1X on the company. Therefore, they are expected to release it with great attention to detail and possibly via a live event, emphasizing its capabilities and benefits.

Ultimately, the decision to wait for the M1X or buy the current M1 MacBook Pro depends on your specific needs, budget, and willingness to upgrade. Whether you decide to wait or not, it is clear that the M1X will represent a significant leap in performance and features for Apple laptops.