MacBook Pro M4 vs Mac Studio M2: which Mac is best for you?
These are both powerful machines. Is one better?
by https://www.techradar.com/uk/author/bryan-m-wolfe · TechRadarVersus By Bryan M Wolfe published 5 May 2026
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Apple MacBook Pro (14 inch, M4) review
The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 chip is a powerful laptop designed for professionals. It features the M4 chip for exceptional performance in tasks like video editing and graphic design. The device boasts a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology for vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
Pros
- M4
- Nano-texture screen
- Centerstage camera
- Excellent design
Cons
- No design updates
- No Wi-Fi 7
Apple Mac Studio (M2 Ultra) review: Pro Performance in a compact package
The Mac Studio M2 can be fitted with the same processor as a Mac Pro for a fraction of the price.
Pros
- Compact sleek package
- Solid workstation performance
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Can get PCs with more powerful GPUs
Trying to decide between the MacBook Pro and the Mac Studio? While both Apple devices have seen significant updates since the release of the M4 and M2-powered models, these older machines are still exceptionally powerful. And you can even save some money choosing them over the latest devices.
This article comprehensively compares the MacBook Pro M4 and Mac Studio M2, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases to help you determine which machine is best suited for your specific needs.
For the latest models, see our MacBook Pro 14-inch (M5) review and Mac Studio (M3 Ultra) review.
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MacBook Pro M4 vs Mac Studio M2: Specs
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| Row 0 - Cell 0 | MacBook Pro M4 | Mac Studio M2 |
| Display | 14.2 inches or 16.2-inches | None |
| Type | Liquid Retina XDR display | N/A |
| Refresh rate | Up to 120Hz adaptive refresh rate (ProMotion technology) | N/A |
| Processor / Graphics | M4 (base model), M4 Pro, or M4 Max | M2 Pro or M2 Ultra |
| Memory | 8GB, 16GB, or 24GB | Up to 192GB |
| Storage | 512GB, 1TB or 2TB | Up to 8TB |
| Ports | Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, HDMI port, SDXC card slot, MagSafe 3 port, and 3.5 mm headphone jack | Front: 2x USB-C ports or 2x Thunderbolt 4 ports, Rear: SDXC card slot, 4x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 2x USB-A ports, 1x HDMI port, 10Gb Ethernet port, 3.5mm headphone jack |
MacBook Pro M4 vs Mac Studio M2: Prices & availability
The MacBook Pro (2024) was released late in 2024 and is available in two display sizes: 14 inches and 16 inches. The 14-inch model offers an entry-level M4 chip or a mid-range M4 Pro chip. The 16-inch model has either the M4 Pro or the M4 Max chip. Additionally, all models allow you to customize RAM and storage options.
Prices for the older M4 laptops are around $2000 / £2000 depending on configuration. To compare that, the new M5 models start from $1699 at Apple for the 14-inch laptop and $2699 for the 16-inch. In the UK, it's the same story, starting from £1699 and £2699 depending on the size.
The Mac Studio with an M2 Max or M2 Ultra chipset will typically cost around $2000 / £2000.
However, the new models, which have the M3 Ultra and M4 Max chips cost from $1999 and from $3999 from Apple depending on the chipset and configuration. In the UK, prices start from £1999 for the M4 Max and £4199 for the M3 Ultra direct from Apple.
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