The Best Apple MacBooks for Graphic Design in 2024 (April Update)

MacBooks are surely some of the most expensive laptops. But at the same time, many graphic designers still prefer an Apple MacBook over a Windows laptop. This is all thanks to the characteristic cutting-edge components of a typical Apple MacBook– such as the high-performance integrated graphics card, M1 Max or M2 chip, compatibility with graphic design apps, and so on.

I have carefully picked and tested the best graphic design Macs in 2024 to help you find the best Mac that combines power, performance, and a touch of style.

Apart from that, with my expertise and thorough research, I have created a comprehensive guide that will help you invest in the best laptop for your graphic designing and modeling needs. So, let’s delve into the world of the best Mac laptops for graphic designers!

What is the Best Macbook for Graphic Design in 2024?

Due to its unparalleled performance coupled with a stunning display and a comfortable user experience, the Apple 2023 Macook Pro M3 Pro Chip has proved itself to be the best graphic design laptop from Apple. 

My Top 3 Picks

02/19/2024 03:51 pm GMT

Detailed Reviews of the Best Apple Laptops for Graphic Design in 2024

1. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M3 Pro Chip — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)

CPU: 11‑core CPU | GPU: Integra-ted | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 18GB RAM 

The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro tops my list for its exceptional performance and display quality, which are crucial for graphic design. The combination of the M3 Pro chip, 18GB of unified memory, and a 512GB SSD, all in a sleek Space Black finish, makes it an ideal fit for designers who require power and precision.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display of the MacBook Pro is outstanding. Offering exceptional clarity and color accuracy with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, it’s perfect for intricate design work. I found the true-to-life colors and sharpness it brings to my designs indispensable. 

Working on complex projects, like those involving gigapixel panoramas, is a breeze thanks to its up to 14-core CPU and 14-core GPU. The responsiveness and smooth performance of the M3 Pro chip make the MacBook Pro a reliable device for handling demanding design applications.

Battery life is another aspect where this MacBook excels. Offering up to 18 hours of battery life, it supports uninterrupted work for extended periods. This feature has been a lifesaver during tight deadlines, allowing me to work without constantly searching for a power outlet.

“As for battery life, this laptop refuses to die on me. (Which makes my life difficult when trying to do battery rundown tests.) With the display at 300 nits, adaptive brightness disabled, and all battery-saving options turned off, I got between 12 and 14 hours of constant use every day.”[Victoria Song, theverge]

However, it’s important to note a couple of drawbacks. The MacBook Pro’s weight, approximately 3.5 pounds, can be a bit cumbersome for designers who are always on the move. Additionally, the absence of a touchscreen might be a drawback for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to their design process.

In conclusion, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro is an excellent choice for graphic designers. Its top-notch display, powerful processing capabilities, and long battery life cater perfectly to the demands of high-end graphic design work. 

PROS	CONS
➕ Exceptional 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display for superior visual clarity.	➖ Heavier build affecting portability.
➕ Powerful M3 Pro chip for handling complex graphic design tasks.	➖ Lack of a touchscreen interface.
➕ Extended battery life suitable for long working hours.
➕ Comprehensive software compatibility, including Adobe Creative Cloud.
➕ Ample storage with 512GB SSD.

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2. Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro M2 (2023) — Best Value Macbook

The Best Value Macbook for Graphic Design

CPU: M2 Pro chip | GPU: Apple 30-core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 16GB 

For my design and everyday work, I’ve used the Apple MacBook Pro M2 2023 for its unmatched fusion of power and precision when it comes to graphic design. Here’s more about why it’s the best value Mac for designers.

The centerpiece of the MacBook Pro, the M2 Pro chip, left a lasting impression on me. Handling complex tasks and multitasking with ease, it was a relief in my design workflow. The processing power and fluidity it offered were not just impressive but critical for maintaining high-quality work under tight deadlines.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display was another standout feature. During my usage, the display’s color richness and detailed rendering significantly enhanced my visual work. It was particularly beneficial in detecting and perfecting subtle color nuances and textures in my designs.

Durability was a hallmark of the MacBook Pro. The all-aluminum unibody design withstood the daily rigors of commuting and constant usage, proving its build quality. The comfort and responsiveness of the Magic Keyboard supported long design sessions, and the advanced cooling system efficiently managed the laptop’s temperature, a notable feature in high-performance laptops.

However, it’s important to balance these attributes against the premium cost and the somewhat bulkier design compared to Apple’s other ultraportable laptops. For me, the investment in the MacBook Pro was justified by its stellar performance and reliability, but this is a consideration each professional must evaluate based on their specific needs and budget.

In retrospect, the Apple MacBook Pro 2023’s powerful M2 Pro chip, visually stunning display, and robust build quality enhanced my creative process, making it a highly recommended tool for professionals in the field.

PROS	CONS
➕ Powerful M2 Pro chip handles resource-intensive graphic design tasks effortlessly.	➖ Bulky design may affect portability compared to lighter laptops.
➕ Stunning 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display delivers exceptional color accuracy and visual clarity.	➖ Higher price point compared to some Windows laptops, making it a premium investment.
➕ Durable all-aluminum unibody enclosure ensures longevity.
➕ Multiple connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 6E.

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3. Apple 13-inch MacBook Pro (2022) — Best Battery Macbook

Best Apple MacBook Pro for Traveling Graphic Designers

CPU: M2 chip | GPU: Apple 10-core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

The Apple 13-inch MacBook Pro (2022) is an excellent choice for graphic designers hustling through long hours, particularly for those who value mobility without sacrificing power. This laptop offers a harmonious blend of efficiency, visual excellence, and endurance, that all come together to elevate the creative process.

Central to its performance is the revolutionary M2 chip. With an 8-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, complemented by up to 24GB of unified memory, it is engineered for speed and fluidity. This technical prowess was evident when I handled intricate design tasks; the MacBook Pro delivered a seamless, lag-free experience, enhancing my productivity.

What sets it apart, however, is its exceptional battery life. Offering up to 22 hours on a single charge, it liberates you from the constant search for power outlets. This was particularly beneficial during long work sessions where I could focus entirely on creativity without interruption.

Connectivity on the MacBook Pro is equally impressive. The inclusion of two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports transforms it into a versatile hub. I found these ports invaluable for connecting external displays and various USB devices, streamlining my workflow significantly.

The display is another standout feature. The 16.2-inch Retina display, with its 500 nits of brightness and P3 wide color gamut support, offers an immersive experience. Its accuracy and vibrancy brought a new level of clarity and detail to my designs, crucial for precise color work.

However, it’s important to acknowledge certain limitations. The built-in webcam, for instance, falls short for professional use. This was a minor inconvenience, easily rectified with an external webcam. Also, the base model’s 8GB RAM might be restrictive for some high-end tasks, but with efficient resource management, it’s manageable.

In conclusion, the Apple 2022’s balance of high-end performance, enduring battery life, comprehensive connectivity options, and a superlative display, all within a portable framework, makes it an indispensable asset for creatives on the move.

PROS	CONS
➕ M2 chip delivers lightning-fast performance.	➖ Built-in webcam may not meet professional standards.
➕ Impressive battery life of up to 22 hours.	➖ Base configuration comes with 8GB of RAM, which may be limiting for memory-intensive design projects.
➕ Versatile Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.
➕ Stunning 16.2-inch Retina display with vibrant colors and exceptional clarity.

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4. Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro (2023) — Best Large Screen Macbook

Best graphic design MacBook Pro with large screen

CPU: M1 chip | GPU: Apple 8-core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 256GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

The Apple 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro stands out not just for its specifications but for how it seamlessly integrates into the creative process of graphic designers. Its expansive 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display delivers unmatched clarity and color fidelity. This feature alone makes it an invaluable tool for any design professional.

Equipped with the M2 Pro chip, this MacBook Pro isn’t just about impressive numbers; it’s about real-world performance that I’ve experienced firsthand. The leap in processing power, particularly with up to a 12-core CPU, allowed me to handle multiple design applications simultaneously.

For graphic-intensive tasks, the up to 19-core GPU was more than enough. I noticed a significant improvement in rendering times and overall smoothness when working with 3D models and high-resolution images. 

The ProMotion technology, with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, further enhanced the visual experience. The True Tone technology  ensured accurate color representation which was crucial for my work, allowing me to see my designs in their true colors.

Battery life is another area where the MacBook Pro excelled. With up to 22 hours of battery life, I didn’t have to constantly search for a power outlet. This longevity is particularly beneficial for those spontaneous moments of inspiration outside the studio.

In terms of connectivity, the MacBook Pro provided ample options. The Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, HDMI port, and SDXC card slot offered me the flexibility needed for various peripherals and external displays. However, the absence of a USB-A port did initially require some adjustments.

Overall, the 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro is a laptop for those who want to push the boundaries of creativity with efficiency, precision, and flexibility.

“The MacBook Pro 16-inch is better than ever, with this new iteration refining both power and performance. The Liquid Retina display is one of the brightest and best of any laptop, and now has micro LED backlighting. There are various ports and 22 hours of battery life. What’s not to like?” [Rob Mead-Green, creativebloq]

PROS	CONS
➕ Revolutionary M2 Pro or M2 Max chip for unparalleled CPU, graphics card, and machine learning performance.	➖ Slightly heavier due to the larger screen size.
➕ Large 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with extreme dynamic range and ProMotion technology.	➖ Absence of a USB-A port may require the use of adapters or dongles
➕ Versatile Thunderbolt 4 ports for charging, display connectivity, and high-speed data transfer.
➕ Amazing battery life of up to 21 hours for all-day productivity.

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5. Apple 15-inch MacBook Air (2023) — Most Affordable Macbook for Graphic Design

Best Apple MacBook Air M2  for graphic design

CPU: 8-core CPU | GPU: Integrated| Hard Disk Size: 256GB SSD| RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

I’ve always sought tools that not only keep pace with my creative endeavors but also enhance my ability to express ideas visually. The Apple 2023 MacBook Air was an integral part of my design journey and offered me the perfect blend of performance and precision in graphic designing.

The 1080p FaceTime HD camera of the MacBook Air was a feature that significantly enhanced my client interactions. Its clarity and color accuracy ensured that every virtual meeting was a professional experience. 

In terms of audio quality, the MacBook Air again stood out with its three-mic array and four-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio– which really came in handy during my multimedia projects. Whether editing a video or fine-tuning an audio-visual presentation, the immersive audio quality made a noticeable difference in the end result.

At the heart of the MacBook Air’s performance was its M2 chip. This next-generation processor, with an 8-core CPU and up to a 10-core GPU, along with up to 24GB of unified memory, handled all my graphic design software effortlessly. From complex photo editing to 3D rendering, the MacBook Air processed tasks swiftly, saving me valuable time.

The visual experience on the 15-inch Liquid Retina display was spectacular. The display’s brightness, wide color support, and ability to showcase a billion colors brought my designs to life. This feature was particularly beneficial when working with color-critical projects, ensuring accuracy and vibrancy in every design.

However, it’s worth noting a few considerations. The higher price point of the MacBook Air was a factor for consideration, and the camera notch on the display could be a slight distraction. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall performance and quality of the MacBook Air made it an excellent choice for professional graphic designers.

In summary, my time with the Apple 2023 MacBook Air was a powerful phase in my graphic design work. Its combination of an advanced camera, superior audio, robust processing power, and a stunning display made it a top choice for professionals in the field.

PROS	CONS
➕ Exceptional 1080p FaceTime HD camera for clear and professional video conferences.	➖ The large screen isn’t particularly for everyone
➕ Six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio for immersive and high-quality audio experiences.	➖ Camera notch encroaches on the display panel, which may be a minor visual inconvenience.
➕ Powerful performance with the next-generation M2 chip and up to 24GB of unified memory.
➕ Vibrant 15-inch Liquid Retina display

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6. Apple 2022 MacBook Air — Best Portable MacBook

Best Graphic Design MacBook for Travel

CPU: M1 chip | GPU: Apple 10-core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 256GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 8GB 

I got the MacBook Air M2 for its remarkable balance of efficiency and design. The 13.6-inch screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels offers a crisp, vibrant display. macOS Monterey runs seamlessly, providing an intuitive interface that complements my creative workflow.

The heart of this MacBook lies in its 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, powered by the Apple M1 chip. This setup ensures smooth operation, even with demanding graphic design software. Having worked on intricate design projects, I can attest to the fluidity with which this machine handles multitasking and heavy applications. Its 16GB of RAM further allowed me to run multiple programs simultaneously without a hitch.

The 512GB SSD storage is ample for large files and extensive design libraries. As a professional constantly on the move, the 18-hour battery life is a significant advantage, eliminating the constant search for power outlets.

However, it’s essential to address some limitations. Under intense graphic designing workloads, the MacBook Air M2 tends to get warm and may throttle performance. This can be managed by avoiding prolonged heavy usage and ensuring adequate ventilation. The display notch, while a design choice, does intrude slightly on the menu bar, which can be distracting.

In summary, the 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 is a stellar choice for graphic designers. Its balanced combination of performance, display quality, and battery life caters well to the demands of graphic design.

PROS	CONS
➕ High-resolution display perfect for design work.	➖ Can warm up under heavy workloads.
➕ Robust performance with 8-core CPU and GPU.	➖ Display notch may interfere with menu bar apps.
➕ Long battery life for extended work sessions.
➕ Ample storage with 512GB SSD.
➕ Sleek and portable design.

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7. Apple 2021 MacBook Pro — Best Performance Macbook

CPU: M1 chip | GPU: Apple 10-core GPU | Hard Disk Size: 256GB SSD | RAM Memory Size: 16GB 

When I first selected the Apple 2021 MacBook Pro, it wasn’t just a random choice. It was a decision influenced by the unique demands of my profession – brand design and strategy – where precision, speed, and visual brilliance are paramount. Here’s my experience and analysis of this powerhouse machine, tailored for fellow graphic designers.

The MacBook Pro’s heart is the Apple M1 Pro chip, a marvel in processing power. For a graphic designer, this means swift rendering of high-resolution images and seamless multitasking between design software. The 10-core CPU is a significant boost, especially when dealing with complex vector graphics or multitasking across various Adobe Suite applications.

The 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is a visual feast, offering extreme dynamic range and contrast ratio. The color accuracy and brightness levels are a godsend for color-critical tasks, ensuring that what you design is what gets printed. The integrated 32-core GPU powers through graphics-intensive tasks, making 3D rendering and video editing feel effortless.

The up to 64GB of unified memory and 8TB SSD storage options are more than sufficient. I’ve personally never experienced a lag, even when working with large files or running multiple applications. The high-speed SSD ensures that apps and files open in a blink.

Battery life, extending up to 21 hours, means you’re not constantly tethered to a power outlet, a significant advantage when working on the go. The 1080p FaceTime HD camera and the six-speaker sound system enhance the overall user experience, especially during client calls.

However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The pricing, especially for higher RAM configurations, can be steep. Additionally, the software ecosystem is still adapting to Apple’s GPU, which sometimes means not all applications are optimized for this powerhouse.

In essence, the Apple 2021 MacBook Pro is ideal for graphic designers who value speed, display quality, and reliability in their workflow. It’s a device that meets the demanding needs of professional design work, although at a premium price.

PROS	CONS
➕ Exceptional processing power with M1 Pro chip	➖ High cost, particularly for increased RAM
➕ Outstanding display quality	➖ Software ecosystem still catching up
➕ Robust memory and storage options
➕ Long battery life
➕ High-quality camera and audio features

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How I Selected and Tested the Best Apple MacBooks for Graphic Designers

When I set out to select and test the best Apple MacBooks for graphic designers, I was driven by a commitment to understanding and meeting the unique needs of professionals in this field. My approach was comprehensive and detail-oriented, ensuring that I could confidently recommend laptops that not only meet but exceed the expectations of graphic designers.

My Selection Process for the Best Graphic Design Laptops from Apple:

1. Extensive Market Research: I personally conducted in-depth market research to identify the most current MacBook models. Analyzing their specifications, I gained a clear understanding of the features essential for graphic design.
2. In-Depth Analysis: I delved into customer reviews, expert opinions, and industry recommendations. This phase was critical in understanding real user experiences and performance levels.
3. Technical Specifications Evaluation: I meticulously examined each MacBook’s technical aspects, focusing on processor power, RAM, storage, display quality, color accuracy, battery life, and connectivity. My aim was to ensure these laptops could handle the high demands of graphic design tasks.
4. User Feedback and Reviews: I analyzed feedback and reviews from users, particularly professional graphic designers, to understand how these laptops perform in real-world scenarios.
5. Expert Opinions and Recommendations: I sought insights from graphic design professionals, design publications, and tech experts to add depth to my selection process.
6. Comparative Analysis: I conducted a detailed comparative analysis, evaluating each MacBook against key criteria like performance, display quality, durability, user experience, and value for money.

My Testing Process for the Best Graphic Design Laptops from Apple:

1. Performance Testing: I rigorously tested each MacBook with graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Sketch, and CorelDRAW. This helped me assess their capability in handling complex design tasks.
2. Display Quality and Color Accuracy: I meticulously evaluated the display quality, focusing on resolution, color gamut, and accuracy. Using color calibration tools, I ensured these laptops offer precise color representation.
3. Ergonomics and Usability: I tested the comfort and responsiveness of the keyboards and trackpads, essential for design precision. I also considered the laptops’ build quality, weight, and portability.
4. Battery Life and Heat Management: I examined battery endurance under typical design workloads and monitored heat management to ensure sustained performance.

Through this exhaustive and hands-on approach, I was able to determine the best Apple MacBooks for graphic designers. My goal throughout was to ensure that every recommended laptop was capable of empowering designers to achieve their creative best.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Graphic Design Laptop

In this laptop buying guide, I will explore the crucial features and considerations that will help you to make an informed decision and find the best MacBook for designers.

💪 Performance Capabilities

Graphic design and video editing tasks often involve working with complex projects and resource-intensive software. To ensure smooth performance, look for a MacBook with a powerful processor, ample RAM, and decent graphics capabilities.

For example, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M3 Pro Chip with 18GB RAM offers exceptional speed and efficiency when rendering designs, working with large files, and multitasking between design applications.

📺 Display Quality and Color Accuracy

Accurate color representation is paramount for graphic designers, as it ensures your designs appear as intended across different devices and outputs. Look for a MacBook with a high-resolution display and a wide color gamut.

The Apple 15-inch MacBook Air (2023) Retina display with True Tone technology and support for the P3 color space delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and precise color accuracy. This feature allows you to work with confidence, knowing that your designs will translate accurately across various mediums.

💾 Storage Capacity and Speed 

Graphic design projects often involve working with large files, including high-resolution images, multimedia assets, and design files. Opt for a MacBook with ample storage capacity, preferably a solid-state drive (SSD), to handle these file sizes and ensure fast loading times.

The Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (2023) offers storage options up to 512 GB SSD, providing ample space for your projects while allowing quick access to your files for seamless workflow efficiency.

⌨️ Keyboard Ergonomics 

As a graphic designer, you spend a significant amount of time typing and creating intricate designs. That’s why a comfortable and responsive keyboard is crucial for a pleasant working experience.

MacBook models like the Apple 14-inch MacBook Pro (2023) feature a refined keyboard design with improved key stability and a comfortable typing experience, allowing you to work for extended periods without discomfort or fatigue.

🔋 Battery Life 

As a graphic designer, you may find yourself working in various locations without easy access to power outlets. Opt for a MacBook with decent battery life to support your work during client meetings, travel, or remote work sessions.

The Apple 13-inch MacBook Pro (2022), known for its impressive battery life of up to 18 hours, allows you to work uninterrupted, even in situations where power sources are limited.

🔌 Connectivity and Port Options 

Consider the connectivity options available on the MacBook to ensure compatibility with your external devices and peripherals. Look for features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB ports, and an HDMI port.

These connectivity options allow you to connect to the internet, transfer files, connect wireless peripherals, and connect to external displays or projectors for client presentations or collaborative work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summing Up the Best Macbook For Graphic Design 2024 Guide

Whether you’re a graphic design student or a seasoned professional, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M3 Pro Chip is most likely to check all your boxes. Its top-tier specs, unmatched performance, and superior visual capabilities allow you to push the boundaries of your creativity. Just be prepared for the premium price point and slightly bulkier design, factors that are more than justified by the machine’s cutting-edge components.

Check out this post and learn about other best laptops for graphic design!

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