Best Mac Computer For Graphic Design

Best Mac Computer For Graphic Design
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If you are looking for the best Mac computer for graphic design, here’s a good chance to get the best. We have evaluated different Mac computers and discovered they’re excellent for designers. So, we’ve gone ahead of you to select the 7 best computers in this category. In summary, the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro is our overall best pick.

No doubt, the six other laptops listed here can handle graphics design without compromise.

It’s just that the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro outperforms the rest.

First, we have in this review the comparison table that summarizes the seven computer devices, giving you a quick glance into all the information you’ll find here.

Next is an overview section revealing why Mac computers are preferred for creativity and design work.

We’ve also created a small guide to help you know the right computer specs you need for your graphic design tasks.  

Then the review proper and our expert recommendation.

Let’s get started

Comparison Table For The Best Mac Computer For Graphic Design

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Product NameProduct ImageSpecifications
2021 Apple MacBook ProProcessor: Apple M1 Pro chip Up to 10-core CPU

Graphics: Apple 14-core GPU or Apple 16-core GPU

Display: 14.2"

RAM: 16 GB

Storage: 512 GB SSD
2021 Apple iMacProcessor: Apple M1 chip, 8-core CPU

Graphics: 7-core GPU

Display: 24"

RAM: 8 GB

Storage: 256 GB SSD
Apple 15.4in MacBook Pro LaptopProcessor: Intel Core i7 processor

Graphics: Radeon Pro 560X graphics

Display: 15"

RAM: 16 GB

Storage: 512 GB SSD
2020 Apple iMac Processor: Intel Core i5 CPU

Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5300

Display: 27"

RAM: 8 GB

Storage: 256 GB SSD
Apple MacBook ProProcessor: Intel Core i5 Processor

Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655

Display: 13"

RAM: 8 GB

Storage: 512 GB SSD
2019 Apple MacBook ProProcessor: Intel Core i7

Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5300M

Display: 16"

RAM: 16 GB

Storage: 512 GB SSD
Apple iMacProcessor: Intel Core i5 processor

Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640

Display: 21.5"

RAM: 8 GB

Storage: 256 GB SSD

Compare The Top 7 On One Page

Best Mac Computer For Graphic Design; An Overview

Nowadays, designers would confidently opt for Mac computers because of their unique features.

Some of these features include; quality display, high color accuracy, powerful performance, and ease of use.

Even more, Mac computers work with some major design software like Sketch which is compatible with Mac OS.

This software provides all the tools designers need for a smooth design process starting from start to finish.

Speaking of Mac computers, you could either get a MacBook or an iMac.

However, before you decide which to go for, there are two things you should consider.

First off, if you are a stationery graphic designer who prefers working from the office or you don’t move a lot, we suggest you opt for a desktop iMac computer.

This is because the iMac computers usually give you a large workspace due to the large displays.

However, they’re heavyweight; you can’t move around with them.

On the other hand, a MacBook is preferable if you like to work on the go.

Besides these, other things are also important to ensure you get the best Mac computer for your graphic design job.

Required Specs For The Best Mac Computer For Graphic Design

Processor

The processor determines the laptop’s entire performance, regardless of the task you intend to use it for.

However, since we are concerned with computers for graphic design, you need a computer with a powerful processor.

This is because graphic design is an intensive task that will only run smoothly on an equally powerful device.

Technically, a processor’s performance depends on the number of cores, threads, generation, and clock speed.

Also, these things are represented in numbers.

So, the higher the numbers, the better the performance.

Overall, we suggest you buy a computer with at least four cores to allow you to run most apps like illustrator or photoshop without struggle.

GPU

Some Mac computers don’t have components like other regular computers.

Hence, the GPU’s capacity for such computers is represented by the number of cores.

For Mac computers with standard components, a dedicated graphics card is best for your graphic design tasks.

RAM

Most design applications also need a high-performing RAM to function effectively.

This is because the RAM helps the processor executes commands.

So, for a swift and smooth workflow, you’ll need a computer with at least 8 GB RAM.

Storage

Ideally, graphics designers deal with huge files which occupy more space than ever.

Hence, you should consider getting a Mac computer with large storage space, preferably an SSD.

You can also opt for the HDD storage option based on your budget.

However, there are certain benefits to Solid Storage.

They are lighter and boot up faster than HDD

Display

The display is one of the things graphics designers should look out for before buying any computer.

This is because the display serves as the mirror through which they see the beauty of their artwork.

Hence, the quality of the display determines how your graphics art comes through.

Fortunately, most Apple computers come with a Retina display that delivers impressive visuals.

For more clarification, the Retina display is a brand name used by Apple to replace IPS, LCD, and OLED display features.

They offer higher pixels for stunning images and videos.

So, whichever laptop you decide to get should have a decent screen size for good viewing angles and True Tone technology for easy adjustment of ambient color.

Also, it should have a good refresh rate for smooth scrolling and a more responsive interface.

Above all, get a computer with a better display feature for the best visual output.

Ports/Connectivity

Port is another essential factor you need to consider when choosing a Mac computer for design work.

One interesting thing about Mac computers is that they are not always limited in terms of ports.

A standard computer set for graphics design should come with at least 2 Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C ports, an HDMI port, and an SDXC card slot.

With these ports, you will have no issues plugging in your devices when needed.

7 Best Mac Computer For Graphics design

1. 2021 Apple MacBook Pro

Coming first on the list of the best Mac computer for graphic design is the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro.

Design/Display/Weight

This Apple laptop is one of the most popular laptops for creatives and graphic designers.

All thanks to its solid build design and processing power.

It sports an amazing space gray color on its entire body, with the Mac logo placed right at the center of the top lid.

Furthermore, its 14-inch screen display has extreme dynamic range and contrast.

Specifically, it features a mini-LED backlit Retina, XDR, 3024 x 1964 resolution pixels, and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz.

Without any doubt, these features will offer you stunning details with a more vibrant color than ever.

On the top is a 1080p Face Time HD camera having a powerful six-speaker sound with spatial audio.

This will deliver crystal-clear audio feedback during your live calls with clients or colleagues.

Even more, it tops all that with a full-sized and well-spaced backlit keyboard.

Lastly, if you are a graphics designer who likes moving from place to place, this MacBook Pro is right for you.

Hence, it weighs 3.53 pounds.

Performance

Speaking of the processor, Apple MacBook has up to a 10-core CPU that can easily handle 8K video editing, compiling code, or complex 3D rendering.

For more clarification, this laptop model offers different processor configurations ranging from  6-core, 8-core, and 10-core.

Likewise, the Apple MacBook offers up to 32-core GPU with 13x faster performance power for graphics-intensive apps and games.

Furthermore, the RAM has up to 64 GB which offers speedy performance in all-around work.

Lastly, you’ll get 512 GB SSD storage to save all your graphic files without hassle.

Ports/Battery Life

The port section includes SDXC, HDMI, Thunderbolt 4, and a headphone jack.

Finally, the battery lasts up to 17 hours on a single charge.

Pros

  • The battery life is encouraging.
  • Amazing 1080p webcam.
  • Impressive performance.

Cons

  • It’s quite pricey.

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2. 2021 Apple iMac

This is a desktop iMac all-in-one-computer in the second position.

Design/Display/Weight

It is designed with a unibody pink color and a compact footprint.

Also, it has two pairs of force-canceling woofers placed side-by-side to produce immersive sound and articulated bass when you play music or videos.

The magic keyboard sports the same color as the computer casing, unifying the colors.

Among other keys featured on the keyboard are the Spotlight, Dictation, Do Not Disturb, and Emoji.

Moving further, the computer has a 24-inch screen display with 4.5K Retina to make images appear vivid and sharp.

It weighs 26.5 pounds.

Performance

Performance-wise, this Apple iMac is powered by an Apple M1 chip with an 8-core CPU and a 7-core GPU.

This configuration will give you extraordinary performance in all-around graphic design work.

More so, it features 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD storage for swift multitasking and excellent storage performance.

Ports/Battery Life

For connectivity, it has 4 USB Type-C ports, two Thunderbolt, an external power adapter, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth to keep you connected.

In conclusion, it is powered by ‎a 3 Lithium-ion battery.

Pros

  • It has a magic mouse and keyboard.
  • It has a USB-C lightning cable.

Cons

  • Small storage and RAM. 

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3. Apple 15.4in MacBook Pro Laptop

Design/Display/Weight

The 15.4-inch MacBook Pro has an all-metal chassis.

Also, it has a compact and portable design.

Precisely, it measures 9.5 x 13.8 x 0.6 inches and weighs 4 pounds.

Likewise, there’s a fingerprint reader embedded into the power button for secure access to your device.

This 15.4″ MacBook Pro has an impressive Retina display with 2736 x 1824 resolution with LED-backlit and IPS technology.

These features ensure you get high-quality visuals.

Performance

This laptop features an 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor.

The processor runs up to a 4.3 GHz boost clock to deliver speedy performance without lagging.

Also, it empowers your workflow with ‎AMD Radeon Pro 560X GPU with a dedicated 4GB GDDR5 VRAM.

With 16 GB memory and 512 GB SSD storage, you can easily multitask and save up files without issues. 

Ports/Battery Life

It comes top-notch with 4 Thunderbolt 3, among other ports.

Finally, expect nothing less than 5 hours of battery life.

Pros

  • There’s a responsive trackpad.
  • High-end processor.
  • Enough multitasking capacity.

Cons

  • Poor battery life.

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4. 2020 Apple iMac with Retina 5K Display

Design/Display/Weight

It’s beautiful and packed with powerful features to bring all your imaginations into reality.

The 27-inch Retina offers one million colors and 500 nits of brightness to deliver stunning visuals for your graphic design tasks.

Overall, this device’s components are fitted into a lightweight chassis weighing just 19.7 pounds.

Performance

Performance-wise, this iMac desktop computer has different models and up to Core i9 configurations.

However, this review model features up to a 3.1GHz, 6-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor.

Even more, it has an AMD Radeon Pro 5000 series graphics with up to 16-core of GDDR6 VRAM.

It has 8 GB, and the storage is 256 GB SSD.

These configurations will make working with high-end graphics software like Adobe Creative Suite and others smooth and efficient.

Ports/Battery Life

The ports section houses Thunderbolt 3, USB-A, Headphone, Ethernet ports, Ultrafast Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connector.

Finally, this iMac is powered by a 3 Lithium-ion battery.

Pros

  • Lightweight.
  • Beautiful display.
  • Impressive configurations.

Cons

  • It is a little bit expensive.

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5. Apple MacBook Pro

Design/Display/Weight

First, the laptop weighs 4.6 pounds

Then, this MacBook Pro has a 13″screen display with 2560 x 1600 resolution.

Also, the display has LED-backlit, IPS technology, and a 16:10 aspect ratio to deliver beautiful pictures and rich color reproduction.

The MacBook Pro features a keyboard with a butterfly mechanism and a Force Touch trackpad to offer a quieter typing experience and multi-gesture. 

Performance

The laptop is equipped with the 8th-generation quad-core Intel Core i5 processor, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655, 8 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage. 

The above configuration can sufficiently handle your needs as a graphic designer.

Ports/Battery Life

It comes in handy with a universal Thunderbolt 3 connector that can be used for data transfer, charging, and connecting to external devices.

Even more, it has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for your wireless connections.

Finally, you will enjoy up to 10 hours of battery life with this MacBook.

Pros

  • Long lapsing battery life.
  • It has a strong security feature.
  • Functional ports and connectivity.

Cons

  • Slightly heavy.

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6. 2019 Apple MacBook Pro

Design/Display/Weight

The 2019 Apple MacBook Pro features a six-speaker system.

Also, the dual force-canceling woofers offer the most natural sound, rich bass, and minimize vibration to deliver an impressive sound quality.

Furthermore, it has a magic keyboard with a refined scissor mechanism and a 1 mm key travel distance for a more comfortable and quiet typing experience.

The 16-inch Retina display will offer you stunning visuals with a more angle view.

Lastly, on this section, it weighs 4.3 pounds.

Performance

Performance-wise, this MacBook is equipped with a 9th generation 6-Core Intel Core i7 Processor, AMD Radeon Pro 5300M Graphics with GDDR6 memory.

This will give you excellent performance for your graphic design operations.

Also, it features 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD storage for effortless multitasking and storage performance.

Ports/Battery Life

Apple equipped this laptop with all the ports you need to connect without any interference.

It has a USB-C, a Power adapter, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a Thunderbolt 3 connector.

Finally, it is powered by ‎1 Lithium Polymer battery.

Pros

  • The design looks attractive.
  • Thunderbolt 3 connector.
  • Magic and responsive keyboard.

Cons

  • The keyboard isn’t backlit.

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7. Apple iMac

This iMac functions with Mac Operating System, allowing you to work with all graphic applications without restriction.

It has a magic mouse and keyboard for soft typing and easy navigation.

Also, the display is a 21.5-inch screen with 1920 x 1080 resolution to deliver vibrant visual output.

Impressively, it weighs just 12 pounds.

Performance

The desktop is powered by the 9th generation dual-core Intel Core i5 processor and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640.

This would work just fine with not too demanding graphics design applications.

In addition, it has 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD storage.

Ports/Battery Life

On the ports section, it comes in handy with an RJ45 connector, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, 4 USB Type-A ports, Kensington lock slot, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth port. 

In conclusion, the iMac is powered by a 3 Lithium-ion battery.

Pros

  • It has extensive port connections
  • Magic mouse.
  • Portable at 12 pounds.

Cons

  • The display is not vibrant enough.

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Conclusion On The Best Mac Laptop For Graphic Design

Now you have a variety of Mac computers to pick for your graphic design work.

If you’re still in doubt about the one to go for, we recommend the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro because it has the power to deliver effectively.

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