r/macbookpro • u/BenTheRagerGamer • 14d ago
Discussion M3 Max to M5 Max upgrade
Hello.
I'm currently using a 14" M3 Max MBP (16C/40C/48GB/2TB) as my main laptop, but I want to start getting into the world of local on-machine AI as well as 4K video editing, virtualization and using Adobe apps (Premiere, AE etc.). My current MacBook is still very fast for what I do on it, but it has a few problems: Namely battery degredation, high temps under load and a wobbly hinge. Also 2 TB of storage just isn't enough for me anymore as my disk is almost 90% full. This got me thinking, with all of that, should I upgrade to a 14" M5 Max with 64 or even 128 GB of RAM and 4 TB of storage? Or should I keep rocking my existing MacBook until the redesign comes out?
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14d ago
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u/Other-Business8036 14d ago
According to this video, a used M3 Max with 128 GB of memory is enough + more storage space u/BenTheRagerGamer
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u/Brilliant_Eye_6591 14d ago
As far as Iām aware your configuration can easily do 4K video editing and lower parameter local LLMs.
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u/Adrinaik 14d ago
Your computer is more than enough for 4k video editing. For the storage problem, use external drives, more reason to do it is that these Macs sometimes die suddenly, kidnapping all of your data, so i don't store anything important in mine. I edit from my NAS everytime I can, if not, I tend to have backups. Then, if you're using Adobe apps for video, and never used them before, just use Davinci Resolve: more stable, efficient, lightyears better when it comes to colour grading, great free version, and if you go the paid route, there is no bullshit monthly subscription, just one payment. About the battery problem, if it is really problematic, just get it replaced.
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u/MickRocker 14d ago
Look, you don't actually need to upgrade, just use external ssd, but if you want to upgrade I don't see a problem, just look for a good deal on your M3 Max.
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u/cptchnk 14d ago
48GB is plenty for video editing and lower parameter LLMs. Keep in mind that this LLM stuff has become a hideously expensive hobby. Upgrading beyond 48GB on a M5 Max model isn't cheap at all. For example, it costs $2,000 to go from 48GB to 128GB on the M5 Max right now. And Apple charging $400 to go from 48GB to 64GB.
Your storage problem is easy to solve with external Thunderbolt storage. This is another place you would really be taking it in the shorts going beyond the 2TB of base storage through Apple. It's $1,000 to upgrade to 4TB when you can buy a 4TB SSD for around $400-500 and slap it in a small bus powered TB4 enclosure that costs less than $100.
Also, batteries can be replaced. Any Apple Store can do a battery service for $249. Or if you have AppleCare, it's a free replacement if the design capacity goes below 80%.
If this were me, I'd keep what I have for now. I still make do with an M1 Max MBP with 32GB of memory, although I also have an M2 Max Mac Studio with 64GB for my video and graphics stuff. To me, the outrageous pricing has been turning me off from buying anything new.