The key differences in video editing performance between the MacBook Pro M4 and the 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9 can be summarized as follows:
1. Performance and Speed:
- MacBook Pro M4: The M4 chip offers significant improvements over previous models, providing up to 9.8x faster scene edit detection in Adobe Premiere Pro compared to the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Core i7[3]. It also delivers up to 4x faster scene rendering performance with Maxon Redshift compared to the 16-inch MacBook Pro with Core i9[3]. The M4 Max variant, in particular, is designed for heavy creative workloads, offering substantial performance boosts in tasks like visual effects and 3D animation[3].
- 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9: While powerful, the Intel Core i9 MacBook Pro is generally outperformed by the M4 models in many video editing tasks. For instance, the M4 Max MacBook Pro is up to 7.8x faster in scene rendering with Maxon Redshift compared to the Intel Core i9 model[3]. Additionally, the M4 Max offers superior multi-core performance and GPU capabilities, making it more efficient for demanding video editing tasks.
2. GPU and Media Engine Performance:
- MacBook Pro M4: The M4 Max chip features a powerful GPU with up to 40 cores and includes two ProRes accelerators, which significantly enhance video processing and encoding speeds. This results in faster export times and smoother playback of high-resolution video files[3][6].
- 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9: The Intel Core i9 model typically relies on dedicated graphics cards like the Radeon Pro, which, while capable, may not match the integrated GPU performance and media engine efficiency of the M4 chips[9].
3. Cooling and Noise:
- MacBook Pro M4: The M4 models generally maintain quieter operation due to their efficient cooling systems, which is beneficial for long editing sessions[1].
- 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9: Intel-based systems often require more aggressive cooling, leading to louder fan noise during intense tasks like video editing[2].
4. Power Efficiency and Cost:
- MacBook Pro M4: The M4 chips are designed to be power-efficient, offering better battery life and potentially lower operating costs compared to Intel-based systems[1].
- 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9: While powerful, Intel Core i9 systems tend to consume more power and may have higher operating costs over time[2].
In summary, the MacBook Pro M4 models, especially the M4 Max, offer superior performance, efficiency, and features tailored for video editing compared to the 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9. The M4 chips provide faster rendering, better GPU performance, and more efficient media engines, making them ideal for demanding video editing tasks.
Citations:[1] https://www.kodjoarts.com/mac-mini-m4-pro-review-a-video-editor-s-30-day-speed-test-results
[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/editors/comments/dtiyzk/maxed_out_macbook_pro_i9_as_main_editing_machine/
[3] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/10/new-macbook-pro-features-m4-family-of-chips-and-apple-intelligence/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cnaocd96Ctc
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JhG5IMUjk8
[6] https://www.theverge.com/24319419/apple-macbook-pro-m4-max-pro-review-price-specs
[7] https://www.justjosh.tech/articles/m4-macbook-pros-ultimate-review-graphics-creative-tasks
[8] https://www.bhphotovideo.com/explora/video/hands-on-review/the-16-macbook-pro-is-a-solid-machine-for-video-editing
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5q40uR_zUg
[10] https://www.technetbooks.com/2024/12/macbook-pro-16-with-m4-max-best-laptop.html