What are the "pros and cons" of the Apple Silicon Mac Pro? Is it for me?

Like just about any other product, only you can decide whether or not a "2023" Apple Silicon Mac Pro -- the Mac Pro "M2 Ultra" 24 CPU/60 GPU or Mac Pro "M2 Ultra" 24 CPU/76 GPU -- is the right Mac for you, but you can evaluate objective pros and cons to see if the Mac Pro is best for your needs.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. ("2023" Apple Silicon Mac Pro)

EveryMac.com also provides a detailed comparison of the 2023 Mac Pro configurations for those who prefer a comprehensive evaluation, but for those who like a quick-to-read summary, the following can be all you need:

Pros:

• Very fast, especially for high-end applications that can take full advantage of multiple processor cores and graphics cores.
• The last expandable Mac; a large number of easy-to-upgrade PCIe slots makes it straightforward to add more SSD storage and additional capabilities.
• The internal SSDs can be upgraded, albeit with limitations.
• Extensive external display support.
• Quiet fans.
• Eight Thunderbolt 4 ports provide extensive, fast external connectivity.
• Fast dual 10-Gigabit Ethernet ports.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Essentially the same performance as the much cheaper Mac Studio.
• Processor cannot be upgraded.
• RAM cannot be upgraded after initial system purchase and the maximum is paltry compared to earlier Mac Pro models.
• Although there are effective workarounds, the internal SSDs are essentially blocked from third-party upgrades.
• PCIe slots do not support video cards.
• No SD card slots or front-mounted Thunderbolt 4 ports.

So, is the Mac Pro for me?

Ultimately, the Mac Pro is expensive, but it can be upgraded to some extent; it is the last expandable Mac. Like all earlier Mac Pro models, the Apple Silicon Mac Pro is designed for true power users who use high-end graphics, video, 3D, VR, and scientific software that takes full advantage of multiple processor cores and graphics cores.

The majority of users who would like a desktop Mac almost certainly would be best served by a cheaper Mac mini or Mac Studio -- Mac Studio models even are the same speed for many tasks -- but for those who need maximum power and expansion, the Mac Pro is the only new option.

In the US, for new Mac Pro, Mac Studio, and Mac mini models, visit site sponsor Adorama. For used Macs, try Other World Computing and JemJem, which both offer a wide variety of options. On the other hand, if you need to sell a Mac Pro or another Mac, A+ BBB-rated Cash for Your Mac will buy your older one with an instant quote and prompt payment.

In the UK, site sponsor Hoxton Macs has a good selection of used and refurbished Macs with a one-year warranty and free next day delivery throughout the UK.

In Australia, site sponsor Mac City has used Macs in stock, as well. All Macs are available with a free warranty and fast shipping across Australia.

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