M1 to M4 chip...is it worth the upgrade? Will Ilustrator run any quicker?

[richardesignerUK]

I predominantly use Illustrator and Photoshop. I'm currently on a 2021 M1 iMac. If I upgrade to an M4 chip (Mac Mini) will Illustrator be any quicker than it already is on my M1 iMac? 

[_scott__]

I mean, the chip is better, I'm sure everything will be faster on an M4 chip (if amont of RAM is equal). Will it be enough to really matter? I doubt it for Illustrator. For video editing and 3D rendering, it may make a big difference.

My basic Mac purchase theory has always been, unless there are damages or costly hardware failures, keep a Mac until Apple drops support for it with a new OS. Honestly, I'd drive an M1 untill the MacOS can no longer be updated on it. Any hardware updates will be marginal overall, until Apple states they will no longer support the hardware with their OS. But of course, if money is no object.. or it's business write off... well...

[richardesignerUK]

Generally I do keep my Macs until they are no longer supported. However although i love the 24 inch screen, I really need a bigger one. I supopose I was holding out hoping Apple would bring out a 27-32 inch iMac. As that doesnt look like its ever going to happen I think its time to bite the bullet and get a 27 inch monitor. If I do that I was wondering if I should upgrade to either a Studio or Mac Mini. I don't fancy connecting my iMac to the Monitor. Too much on my desk them. 

[_scott__]

That does make things different. All I can tell you is your works of Adobe tools changes considerably for the better hne you run miltiple monitors. I use 3 monitors for my promary workstation. I can work with 2 efficiently, but 1 screen is like working ith a straightjacket on. At least to me.

[Mike_Gondek]

Is your M1 fast enough for you now. Certain things like 3D or lots of drop shadow effects are a good test.

Apple was supposed to release a 32" screen iMac, but that may come next year instead. The 27" is no longer available >.<.  I personally prefer one large screen than jumping screens and patching OS issues related to dual screens. So am waiting for next year.  Next year things will be better for apple. Also any bugs with the new M4 should be worked out by then.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ea9-4XTY9Zg

[_scott__]

 I personally prefer one large screen than jumping screens and patching OS issues related to dual screens.

No idea what you are referring to. It's litterally, plug and play then 30 soceonds to arrange positions in system settings. Then there's no need to ever do anything again for any app. I've been running dual or triple monitors for 30 years on Macs and has never once presented a single issue regarding "OS issues related to dual screens" -- to be frank, that sounds like a Windows-related comment.