What MacBook Pro configuration would best suite 4K photo/video editing?

[Motocreative]

Looking for the best current MacBook Pro configuration that will ensure I experience smooth performance for editing media up to 4K 120-240FPS. Most likely storing files on an external SSD. 

[Ann Bens]

Moved to hardware forum.

[T - Sal]

Hi, 

Budget Option: M2 MacBook Air

• Specs: 13-inch, 512GB SSD, 8-core CPU, 16GB RAM
• Price: ~$1500 new
• Why: Excellent performance with hardware encoders/decoders for 4K video. Upgrade to 512GB SSD and 16GB RAM for best performance.
• Alternatives: M1 MacBook Air (~$750-850) for tight budgets.

Best Bang for Your Buck: 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro

• Specs: 12-core CPU, 19-core GPU, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD
• Price: ~$2500 new, ~$1950 refurbished
• Why: The M2 Pro offers strong performance with a balanced core configuration and substantial memory bandwidth, making it a cost effective choice. Upgrades to a 12-core CPU and 1TB SSD are recommended for optimal performance.

Absolute Beast: 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Max

• Specs: 12-core CPU, 30-core GPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD
• Price: ~$3700 new, ~$2900 refurbished
• Why: Double the hardware encoders/decoders, less throttling, ideal for high-resolution video editing. Stick with 32GB RAM and upgrade storage as needed.

If You Want to Spend More: M3, M3 Pro, M3 Max

• Latest Options: Apple has introduced the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max models, offering improved performance and efficiency. While the M2 models still offer great value, the M3 lineup provides the latest technology for those looking to future proof their purchase.

Links to Recommended MacBooks

• Budget MacBook:
• Amazon
• B&H
• Best Bang for Your Buck:
• Amazon
• B&H
• Absolute Beast:
• Amazon
• B&H

To enhance your editing experience, consider using proxy files to make your edits smoother.

[Motocreative]

Thank you for your expertise! 

[bob_robertappleton dotcom]

I would say if you're serious, and you want to be great and successful, it's pretty obvious you can only do 1 of 2 things: Buy the M2 or M3 studio and load it with everything you can afford. Remember Macs can't be upgraded. So look to the future haul that makes sense financially. If you really are great and successful then you make money and buy a new one every year. As someone who is there now I can tell you it's one of the greatest things you could do for yourself.

bob

[Motocreative]

Thank you for your advice Bob!