Music production requires high-quality equipment, including a top computer that can handle modern as well as high-power recording and production software. Fortunately, most music production software is compatible with Mac computers. In fact, Macs are even a preferred option due to macOS’s known stability and the power of Apple silicon. But which one to choose? Check out this list to find the best MacBook for music production.
What is the best Mac for music production?
The best Mac for audio production overall might be the Mac Pro, simply because it has the most powerful processor, but, in the end, it all depends on the music producer’s needs. People in this business need a reliable computer with plenty of memory and storage. Doing a little research before purchasing ensures the user gets a laptop to fit their specific needs. But be sure that Apple silicon and unified memory instead of RAM have a lot to offer, so even a base MacBook Air can turn into a killer machine for music making.
How to choose a Mac for music production
Here are a few factors music creators commonly consider when choosing a computer:
📌 Memory. Base 16 GB should be enough for casual use, but generally, the more, the better. The same goes for storage. 512 GB should be fine, but having at least 1 TB is better.
📌 Screen size. Most creators go with 14", and it perfectly meets their needs. But if you plan to run several apps using split screen, you may want a bigger one.
📌 Ports. If you plan to connect an external display, a production studio, an audio interface, a keyboard, or all of these together, you will need extra ports.
📌 CPU/GPU. Generally, all currently offered CPU/GPU configurations are capable of decent music production. Music creators recommend focusing more on memory instead.
Once you’ve considered all of the above, think about the final two factors: portability and budget. Here’s a breakdown of Mac computers to help you make the decision less challenging.
Lightweight Mac computers for everyday use
Some music careers require portability, and MacBooks are the perfect match in this case, though they are less powerful than desktop computers. DJs and events coordinators may find MacBooks ideal since they are lightweight and easy to carry around.
MacBook Pro
MacBook Pro boasts a powerful processor for a laptop, giving it the ability to power bigger programs reliably. Users can lay multiple tracks fast and run large programs without losing speed. This MacBook comes with:
M5, M4 Pro, or M4 Max chip
- Up to 128 GB of memory
- Up to 16‑core CPU, 40‑core GPU
- Up to 8 TB of storage
- Liquid Retina XDR display
Apple silicon chips are fast, and the new M chips are up to 6 times faster than the respective M1 chips. All of them have plenty of processing power for even the most demanding music production workloads. Apple recommends M4 Max for creative professionals, but it all really depends on how deeply you are involved in music creation.
The MacBook Pro also comes in two sizes — 14-inch and a 16-inch — and starts at $1,599. All sizes come with solid-state drives (SSDs) for secure storage while traveling and up to 24 hours of battery life — something that will come in handy for music producers on the go.
MacBook Air
Being the lightest MacBook, this laptop is a great portable device to have. A 13-inch model weighs just 2.7 pounds and is made with 55% recycled materials by weight, making it eco-friendly. MacBook Air starts at $999 and features:
- Liquid Retina display that supports over a billion colors
- Up to 32 GB of memory
- M4 chip
- Up to 10‑core CPU, 10‑core GPU, 16‑core Neural Engine
Long gone are the days when MacBook Air was not be powerful enough for the music programs. Yes, it is less powerful than some MacBook Pro models, but it is still a viable option for music producers. It comes with up to 2 TB of SSD storage, which allows for fast app launches and plenty of room for documents and pictures, but it might not be enough for music programs and associated files.
But even the most powerful laptops may get slower over time. We recommend using optimization software, like CleanMyMac, to easily manage massive files and data on your computer and increase its performance. It will clear up old, unused files, hidden/background apps, and other memory hogs that can also help preserve peak performance over any Mac’s life.
Powerful computers for an amazing performance
High-end audio work requires a high-powered central processing unit (CPU). CPUs do a lot of the “heavy lifting” on a computer, as their main job is to execute programs. In correlation, the bigger the processor, the better the music programs will run.
iMac Pro
The iMac Pro is an all-in-one and starts at $4,999. It also provides a variety of ports to connect any equipment needed, like microphones, extra monitors, and USB instruments. The iMac Pro comes with:
- 8-,10-, 14-, or 18-core processor
- Radeon Pro Vega graphics
- Up to 256GB of memory
- 4 TB of SSD
With a 27-inch screen, a music producer can open several programs without having to flip between screens. Plus, with 4 TB of all-flash storage, multiple music projects can be saved and loaded without the worry of the computer slowing down. However, currently, it is not available for online purchase on Apple’s website and may be a bit outdated. Still, if you already own this machine, it is powerful enough for running all kinds of music programs.
In case you have some issues with memory due to the excessive amount of apps, you could use CleanMyMac’s Applications feature. It will remove unused apps from your Mac and delete leftovers that are usually hidden in your computer’s memory. Here’s how to run it:
- Open CleanMyMac — get your fre trial here (test all 25+ tools for 7 days).
- Click Applications > Scan > Manage My Applications > Uninstaller.
- Select the apps you want to remove and click Uninstall.
- After CleanMyMac removes the apps, check the Leftovers tab to delete the remaining data.
CleanMyMac will then get rid of unnecessary apps and their data. Also, check out the Smart Care feature: it clears out the junk, removes malware that may have sneaked onto your Mac, installs vital app updates, and runs maintenance tasks. All there is to keep your Mac in top shape!
But, what if cleaning your Mac doesn’t make it more powerful? Then our next option will be great for you.
Mac Pro
Mac Pro now comes with Apple silicon andis available with up to 24-core processor, which is 1.8 x faster than a 28‑core Intel-based Mac Pro. This Mac is made for professionals who need the best CPU performance. Music producers can play hundreds of virtual instruments with this Mac and store tons of files without the risk of running out. It also features:
- Up to 192 GB of memory
- Tower or Rack
Up to 76-core GPU
- Up to 8 TB SSD storage
Given the above, music producers can save and download multiple files of any size. It has various ports to plug into to connect any equipment needed. This is useful for those who are studio recording or mixing and mastering. But it is higher on a budget, starting at $6,999.
Affordable MacBooks for all-purpose use
Price can be a factor in making a decision like this. However, music producers shouldn’t let price stand in the way of performance. Mac has affordable options for people in this line of work.
iMac
The original iMac is an all-in-one that has an updated processor that allows for speed and high performance. It comes with a 24-inch screen. This computer’s processor boasts high speeds, which means running applications like Logic X Pro will be effortless. The iMac also features:
- Apple M4 chip
- Up to 24 GB of memory
- Up to 2 TB storage
- Up to 10‑core CPU, 10‑core GPU
- 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with True Tone technology
For those looking for a big screen and an affordable price, the iMac could likely be the best of both worlds, starting at $1,299.
Mac Mini
Mac Mini is powerful, fast, and relatively inexpensive compared to the MacBooks and iMacs. Starting from $599, the Mini comes with M4 or M4 Pro chip. It also has the same connectivity as an iMac so that music producers can hook up multiple instruments and microphones. Other features include:
- Up to 64 GB of memory
- up to 8 TB SSD storage
- Up to 8 ports (including up to 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports)
With the added SSD storage, music producers are able to save, download, and upload multiple large files, like a live concert sound engine.
In general, it’s important to look at memory and storage when considering an ideal computer since music producers will handle a lot of large files that need to be accessed quickly. Though music producers might think they need a computer with a powerful processor, the best type of computer really depends on the user’s needs. Whether you are a DJ traveling to gigs or a sound technician with a studio, Macs are a reliable choice for your future career.
