Apple is working on a newer version of the M1 Apple silicon chip which will be called the “M2.” The chip is expected to start shipping in 2022, and from what we hear, it may be a replacement for the M1 chip that is used in lower-end MacBooks.
What Are the Differences Between the Existing M1 Pro and M1 Max?
Back in 2020, Apple began using its own desktop processors in some Macs. The 13-inch MacBook Pro, 24-inch iMac, MacBook Air, and the Mac mini all have the M1 chip. A while later, the company introduced M1 Max and M1 Pro – the Pro level versions of the chip.
These featured in the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro. The M1 Max has a 10-core CPU and a maximum of 32 GPU cores, while M1 Pro has up to 10 CPU cores and a maximum of 16 GPU cores.
Now, rumor has it that the second-generation Apple silicon chip (M2) will be released soon. The chip will succeed the M1 chip and will be more powerful. However, it will not be as powerful as the Pro level versions of the chip: the M1 Max and the M1 Pro.
Apple hasn’t released a lot of information on the M2, but experts are speculating that it could feature in the redesigned MacBook Air that will be released in 2022 or the MacBook Pro that will launch in spring.
The next-generation chip may feature M1’s 8-core CPU, but it will be faster and more efficient as it might be built on a smaller node. It may have more core GPU options—9 and 10 compared to M1’s 7 and 8.
Rumor has it that the M2 silicon chip may also be used in future versions of Mac mini, iMac, and MacBook Pro. But Apple isn’t providing a lot of information on the products that will feature the chip at this point.
Apple’s Spring Event Is Coming Up. Should I Wait Until the M2 Chip Is Released?
Yes, we think it’s best to wait. Don’t get a MacBook with the older M1 chip. There have been rumors that the newer version of the 13-inch MacBook Pro will feature an updated M2 chip and will be launched at Apple’s March event, so wait and see. You could get a Mac with the M2 as early as March.
After the M2, What Next?
We believe Apple will start using the M-series silicon chips in all its Mac products, so there’ll be many improvements to the chip lineup. Each year, Apple updates the A-series chips it uses in iPhones, so we expect the same regular upgrades for the M-series silicon chips.
Most likely, Apple will produce M2 Max and M2 Pro chips for newer versions of the MacBook Pro and other devices. The company may also stick with the same naming scheme: M1/M1 Pro/M1 Max.
The Best RAVPower PD Pioneer Series Chargers for MacBooks
The charger Apple provides for the MacBook can be expensive and bulky. But the good news is there are many alternatives on the market—like RAVPower PD Pioneer Series power banks. They are just as powerful and provide more features for less money.
Some RAVPower PD Pioneer Series GaN Wall Chargers for MacBook have more than one charging port and make it easy for you to charge your MacBook and your phone at the same time. RAVPower chargers also have a more compact design and are less bulky than the original MacBook chargers. Here are three chargers you will love.
1. 100W Dual USB-C Charger: RP-PC151
RavPower’s 100W dual USB-C GaN charger is one of the smallest and lightest MacBook chargers to date. It has two ports and can charge two devices simultaneously at a max of 100W. Once you get it, you’ll forget about carrying a myriad of chargers.
The charger is perfect for businesspeople and frequent travelers because it has enough power to fully charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro in 1.7hrs and an iPad Pro 11 in just 2hrs. If your iPhone is dying, connect it to the charger and it will go from 0% to 50% in 25mins.
The RAVPower PD Pioneer Series charger maximizes charging efficiency. Engineered to remain cool as it charges your phone and comes in a compact size, so you can carry it everywhere you go. It is 35% smaller and 45% lighter than a 96W Apple charger. Also, the charger supports USB PD 3.0 and PPS and can power all USB-C devices. For more information, please go to our in-depth blogpost about RP-PC151 here.
2. 90W Type-C Wall Charger: RP-PC128
For most MacBooks, this 90W charger from RAVPower will work perfectly. It can deliver 90W via a supported cable and distribute power intelligently to two devices. It comes with a Type-C cable that’s long enough to charge devices at a distance. The charger is compatible with the latest iPhone models and can fully charge a MacBook Pro 15” in 2 hours.
GaN technology and Pi chip work together to maximize charging efficiency, lower power consumption, and shrink the charger’s size. Top-notch safety features make it one of a kind. The RAVPower PD Pioneer Series charger features overvoltage protection, temperature control, short-circuit protection, automatic current matching, and current regulation.
3. 90W 2-Port PD Power Bank: RP-PB232
If you’re looking for a power bank that won’t take up a lot of room, this is it. It is designed to be compact, which is a big deal if you’re looking for a super-small charger. Its USB-C port produces 90W and can charge a dead MacBook Pro 15.4” to 50% in just 40 minutes! Use the provided USB-C to C cable and fast-charge all your devices.
The RAVPower PD power bank offers optimal charging speeds to almost all USB-powered devices. It provides up to 65W and powers USB-C devices through its PD 3.0 port, which is plenty for any MacBook. The power bank also recharges super fast. Simply get RAVPower’s 60W USB-C PD wall charger to power it.
The RAVPower PD Pioneer Series is Perfect for MacBooks with the M2 Chip
Any day from now, Apple may release a new MacBook with an M2 silicon chip, and Mac lovers are waiting with baited breath. If you love Macs and can’t wait to get the next one, wait till Apple’s March event. And after you buy the Mac, get a charger from the RAVPower PD Pioneer series.