14-inch MacBook Pro could be just as fast, almost as pricey as 16-inch model

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Full-screen works great on a MacBook.
A lot faster and a lot more expensive.
Photo: Charlie Sorrel/Cult of Mac

The next-generation 14-inch MacBook Pro will be nearly identical to the 16-inch model that launches alongside it in terms of performance, according to a tipster. Both machines are expected to feature the same M1X chip.

That’s great news for those who want a capable machine that’s small enough to take anywhere — but there is a downside. The leaker also claims that the 14-inch MacBook Pro will be close to the 16-inch model in price.

Apple is planning big improvements for the MacBook Pro lineup, according to many recent reports. Its next refresh is expected to bring revamped designs, mini-LED displays and beefier Apple Silicon chips with big graphics upgrades.

The lineup reportedly will be available in 14- and 16-inch sizes, and for the first time, the smaller MacBook Pro could be just as fast as its bigger brother. But you likely will pay more for the performance bump.

14-inch MacBook Pro will cost you more

“It’s comforting to note that both MacBook Pro’s that are coming this fall will have the same chip and the same performance,” tweeted @dylandkt, who has leaked accurate information regarding upcoming Mac upgrades before.

Dylan expects both machines to feature the same M1X chip. According to recent reports, the chip could feature up to 10 processing cores and a whopping 32 cores for graphics. That represents a significant increase over the eight GPU cores in the M1, the inaugural Apple Silicon chip that powers current Macs.

“It’s definitely a win for those who like to opt for the smaller size,” wrote Dylan. The leaker also warned of a downside: “Expect a notable increase in price for the 14 inch over the 13 inch.”

Dylan offered no additional information on pricing. As things stand, the M1 MacBook Pro starts at $1,299. The 16-inch MacBook Pro — powered by Intel chips — costs significantly more at $2,399.

Why buy a 16-inch MacBook Pro?

Of course, there will almost certainly be some important differences between the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, aside from the obvious one in screen size. The larger model likely will offer more customization options.

Although both entry-level configurations could feature the same M1X chip, the fastest chip variants — those with 32-core GPUs — could remain exclusive to the 16-inch MacBook Pro. The same could apply to certain storage options.

We’ll find out more when Apple makes its new MacBook Pro lineup official. According to recent rumors, that will happen sometime this fall, likely in October or November, after the introduction of iPhone 13.

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