How does the MacBook Pro M4 handle 8K footage in DaVinci Resolve

Performance Overview

- Rendering Speeds: The M4 chip provides significant improvements over previous models, but rendering 8K footage can still be demanding. For optimal performance, especially with 8K, it's recommended to use at least 24GB of RAM or even 32GB if possible, as this can help reduce memory bottlenecks during rendering and color grading[3][5].

- DaVinci Resolve Tests: In real-world tests, the MacBook Pro M4 Pro has shown strong performance in DaVinci Resolve, handling 4K and 6K footage smoothly. However, when it comes to 8K, the system might require more resources to maintain smooth playback and efficient rendering. The M4 Max model, with its additional GPU cores, could offer better performance for such high-resolution tasks[1][7].

- Comparison with Other Models: Compared to the M1 Pro, the M4 Pro offers enhanced multi-core performance, which is beneficial for tasks like video editing. However, for extremely demanding tasks like 8K editing, the M4 Max might be more suitable due to its increased GPU power[2][7].

Practical Considerations

- RAM and Storage: For optimal performance with 8K footage, using an external SSD for storage can help improve data transfer speeds and reduce bottlenecks. Additionally, ensuring sufficient RAM is crucial to prevent excessive swapping, which can slow down the system[3][6].

- GPU Performance: The GPU plays a critical role in video editing, especially with high-resolution footage. The M4 Max, with its more powerful GPU, is likely to handle 8K footage better than the M4 Pro, especially when applying complex effects or color grading[7].

In summary, while the MacBook Pro M4 can handle 8K footage in DaVinci Resolve, optimal performance may require careful consideration of RAM, storage, and GPU capabilities. Upgrading to the M4 Max or ensuring sufficient RAM and external storage can enhance the editing experience for such demanding tasks.