Breaking Update: Here’s a clear explanation of the latest developments related to Breaking News:Should you wait for Apple’s M5 Pro Macs or buy the M4 Max right now?– What Just Happened and why it matters right now.
Based on a recent X post popular leaker AppleLeaker, shipping timelines for M4 Max MacBook Pro models have been delayed to late February. Looking back at previous launches, this kind of delay translated to new product launches. If this leak proves accurate, it could mean the company is nearing the end of its M4 Max sales cycle.
There’s also a chance the company might be positioning the M5 Pro for a late January or early-to-mid February reveal. If you’re a buyer considering a high-end MacBook Pro, waiting might be worth it after all.
Note: Apple has not officially confirmed anything regarding the M5 Pro Mac, and information about the M4 Max delay comes from AppleLeaker. Some aspects of this article are subjective.
Read more: Microsoft Surface Pro vs M4 MacBook Air: Which is the better laptop for productivity?
Why Apple MacBook M4 Max shipping delays matter
Apple rarely lets its flagship MacBook Pro configurations move this close to a new calendar window without a proper reason. When delivery dates are extended by weeks, it usually points to one of two things: supply reallocation or an incoming refresh.
In the past, these kinds of delays were only seen just weeks before Apple introduced its updated silicon. If the M4 Max inventory is being held back, it supports the case that an M5 Pro system is on the way or entering final production stages.
Read more: Microsoft releases an emergency patch for the shutdown issue some Windows 11 users are experiencing
Why waiting for the M5 Pro chip could be beneficial
If you are not in urgent need of a new Mac, waiting now will benefit you significantly. With the M5, Apple has made enormous computing progress. Both the CPU and GPU have seen notable performance and efficiency gains. Based on the capabilities of the standard M5 chip found in existing M5 MacBook models, if an M5 Pro surfaces, there should be a noticeable level of performance improvement, including:
- Better performance per watt
- Improved sustained performance under load
- Longer battery life in real-world workflows
Given the current RAM and storage pricing situation, if you are a creator looking for a new MacBook, waiting for this new generation may be worth it. Even without confirmed CPU or GPU core counts or detailed performance data, it is safe to say you are likely to extract more value from your purchase.
Should you buy the Apple MacBook M4 Max right now?
If you need a Mac immediately and can find a good deal, the M4 Max is an incredibly powerful machine. However, paying full price during this period may not be beneficial.
With current shipping delays and ongoing M5 Pro rumors, waiting a few weeks could give you better value. Which is to say, if you go with the M4 Max, then you could be seeing price cuts. On the other hand, you can also pay the M4 Max’s price and get the M5 Pro chip and get more performance for the same money.
If it is an absolute emergency, then buying now makes sense. Otherwise, holding off for a while is the better move.
Edited by Ananya Giri