Apple M3, M3 Pro, M3 Max CPU & GPU Configurations Detail

Apple’s next-generation M3 series is slated to make its debut within the current year, with the launch of the M3 chip anticipated to be featured in the 13-inch MacBook Pro and a redesigned MacBook Air. Meanwhile, the more powerful M3 Pro and M3 Max are planned for a market release next year.

According to a report by Wccftech, there is now a more comprehensive understanding of the configurations for these three M3 series SoC models. The M3 and M3 Pro will maintain the same core count for CPU and GPU as the existing M2 and M2 Pro, while the M3 Max will increase the core count to provide enhanced multi-threading performance. Moreover, all M3 series chips will be manufactured using Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) 3nm process technology.

Both the M3 and M2 boast up to 8 cores, comprising 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, as well as a GPU with up to 10 cores, and support for a maximum of 24GB of unified memory. As iterative products, significant improvements are expected. Apple may not increase the CPU core count of the M3 Pro, retaining the M2 Pro’s scale. The CPU component will be equipped with 12 cores, including 8 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, while the GPU section has 18 cores. The rumored larger 14.1-inch iPad Pro may also employ this chip. The M3 Max may have up to 14 CPU cores and 40 GPU cores, both surpassing the M2 Max (CPU 12 cores + GPU 38 cores), with an expected appearance in mid-2024, initially featuring in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.

In summary, the differences in CPU and GPU core count between the M3 and M2 series SoC are not markedly pronounced. However, due to the incorporation of TSMC’s latest manufacturing technology, the actual performance is anticipated to see a more substantial increase than initially expected.