When it comes to recommending a Mac laptop, many users often overlook the 14-inch MacBook Pro, especially at the entry level. This laptop competes head-to-head with the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air, which are significantly cheaper and deemed “good enough” for the average consumer. However, the basic MacBook Pro offers unique advantages for a specific segment of power users.
Starting at a price of $1,599, the 14-inch MacBook Pro is the most affordable model featuring Apple’s best laptop screen technology. It boasts mini LED technology, a 120 Hz ProMotion refresh rate for smoother scrolling, and an optional nano-texture matte finish that enhances visual comfort. Unlike the MacBook Air, this model includes a cooling fan, which allows for better sustained performance and less throttling during demanding tasks.
Additionally, the 14-inch MacBook Pro is equipped with three Thunderbolt ports, an HDMI port, and an SD card slot. These features are particularly beneficial for users who require multiple connections without relying on dongles or bulky docks, making it a superior choice for professionals.
The latest iteration of the MacBook Pro features the new M5 chip, which is the first in Apple’s fifth-generation chip family. While the design remains largely unchanged from previous models, the M5 chip offers significant improvements in performance and efficiency. For those who previously considered the M3 or M4 versions and found them lacking, the M5 adds a compelling reason to reconsider.
Apple has maintained the design of the 14-inch MacBook Pro for about four years, transitioning from the older Intel architecture to the new M-series chips with the introduction of the M1 Pro and M1 Max. This laptop features a consistent thickness, a slightly larger 14-inch screen (up from 13 inches), and a notch at the top of the display. While the notch allows for more screen real estate, it does limit usability for certain applications.
Compared to the 13-inch MacBook Pro, the 14-inch model is a bit heavier at 3.4 pounds and slightly larger in width and depth. However, for most professional users, the extra screen size, along with the addition of the HDMI port and SD card slot, justifies the minor increase in size.
Apple’s keyboard design remains consistent across the MacBook Air and Pro lines, providing a reliable typing experience. Users may notice a slightly firmer feel on the Pro model, enhancing typing satisfaction. Furthermore, the speaker system in the 14-inch MacBook Pro outperforms that of the MacBook Air, delivering richer bass and a wider dynamic range.
The standout feature of the low-end MacBook Pro is undoubtedly its display. With 120 Hz ProMotion support and superior brightness and contrast thanks to mini LED technology, the screen offers an experience that is hard to match. Users who work under varying lighting conditions will appreciate the optional matte nano-texture finish, which significantly reduces glare without compromising image quality.
The M5 chip has shown promising performance in benchmarks, demonstrating a 12 to 16 percent improvement over the M4 in single-threaded CPU tests and a 20 to 30 percent increase in multicore performance. Graphics performance has also seen a notable improvement, making the M5 chip suitable for demanding applications and high-end gaming.
Despite the enhancements, there are some concerns regarding power consumption. The M5 chip draws more power compared to its predecessor, the M4, particularly under heavy workloads. This increase in power draw could indicate that Apple is pushing the chip to deliver higher performance levels.
The 14-inch MacBook Pro occupies a unique space within Apple’s lineup. While it may not be the most affordable option, its superior display, versatile ports, and impressive performance make it an ideal choice for specific users. If screen quality is your primary concern and you require advanced features, the low-end Pro model is a worthy investment.
However, if you do not need the enhanced display or additional ports, the MacBook Air remains a strong competitor, offering a lighter and more cost-effective alternative. Ultimately, the decision will depend on individual needs and how much value you place on the unique features offered by the 14-inch MacBook Pro.
