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Main Difference between Macbook Pro M2 and M1: Processor
The 2022 Macbook Pro 13 inch (last upgraded in 2020) is now equipped with the Apple M2 processor instead of the M1. This is also the most notable difference between the two models.
Like the M1, the Apple M2 is based on the 5nm chip manufacturing process. However, the M2 boasts up to 20 billion transistors, compared to the M1's 4 billion. Additionally, the number of cores remains the same at 8 – with 4 high-performance cores and 4 high-efficiency cores.
The M2 also supports up to 24GB of unified LPDDR5 memory, whereas the M1 is limited to 16GB. The unified memory bandwidth is currently at 100 Gbps, which is around 50% higher than that of the M1.
Performance-wise, Apple claims the Apple M2 is 18% faster than the M1. Since the core count remains the same, the improvement likely comes from a new architecture. In Geekbench 5 tests, the 2022 Macbook Pro 13-inch easily outperforms the 2020 model with single-core scores of 1919 and multi-core scores of 8928. It's worth noting that at launch, the Macbook Pro 13-inch M1 scored 1749 single-core and 7719 multi-core.
Graphics Performance Comparison between Macbook Pro 13 M2 and M1
Speaking of graphics performance, Apple has increased the GPU core count on the M2 by 2, totaling 10 cores compared to the M1's 8 graphics cores. Overall, Apple claims the new M2 GPU will be around 35% faster than the M1 GPU. This could be due to additional GPU cores as well as other improvements.
When it comes to specific graphic tasks, users may notice slightly better performance. Apple states that the 2022 Macbook Pro 13-inch can handle graphically demanding games like Baldur’s Gate III with up to 40% higher performance than its predecessor. Additionally, creators who regularly work with RAW photos in Affinity Photo will benefit from image processing speeds that are 40% faster than before.
Finally, the Macbook Pro 13-inch M2 now supports ProRes encoding and decoding in the Media Engine. Apple claims it can play back up to 11 streams of 4K video or a maximum of 2 streams of 8K ProRes. Video projects can be converted to ProRes at nearly three times the previous speed.
Design and Appearance of Macbook Pro 13-inch M2: Minimal Changes!
Although the Macbook Pro 13 2022 may have a more powerful chip and better processing performance, its design remains unchanged. Both models of the Macbook Pro 13 inch are virtually identical in terms of physical appearance. They share the same dimensions and overall weight.
And while the entire world thought the Touch Bar had been discontinued, somehow it makes a return on the Macbook Pro 13 2022, making this laptop the only Mac in Apple's current lineup to feature this functionality.
Comparing Display Quality and Camera
Both models of these Macbooks use the same type of camera – the older FaceTime HD 720p, and the position of the 3 microphones is also identical.
However, the image signal processor (ISP) updated within the Apple M2 chip may deliver slightly improved video call performance. Apple states that the ISP can automatically enhance exposure, white balance, and reduce noise.
The display is similar. It's a 13.3-inch LED-backlit IPS display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a pixel density of 227, supporting True Tone technology and a maximum brightness of 500 nits.
Ports and Connectivity
Both models feature a pair of USB4/Thunderbolt 3 ports supporting a range of capabilities from DisplayPort to high-speed data transfer at 40 Gb/s. Additionally, the headphone jack is retained.
There are also no upgrades related to wireless connectivity. Both models support Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax, and Bluetooth 5.0.
What about other features?
The list of additional features on both the Macbook Pro 13 2022 and the 2020 version is nearly identical.
Both come in Silver and Space Gray, feature the same keyboard and trackpad, and even have the same starting price of $1,299.
However, there are two minor differences. Macbook Pro 13 M2 has a slightly longer battery life, Apple claims it can last for 20 hours of video playback (compared to M1's 17 hours) and the 2022 version will come with a 67W charger instead of M1's 61W.
Should You Buy the Macbook Pro 13 M2?
It must be said that this year's Macbook Pro 13 update is somewhat modest, as everything remains largely the same except for the changed processor. If you want the improved video and audio processing speed of the Apple M2 chip, or need more memory or wider memory bandwidth, and above all, if you can afford it, feel free to upgrade to the Macbook Pro 13 M2. But if you only use it for normal tasks, Mytour advises against rushing to switch machines because you may find it difficult to notice significant differences between the two versions.
To be precise, if you already have a Macbook Pro 13 M1, upgrading to M2 may not make much sense. Unless the model you're using is even older than M1, then upgrading would be advisable, as at this point you'll clearly feel the value of a high-performance, worthwhile laptop.
