Why Apple Should Have Chosen AMD

Why Apple Should Have Chosen AMD

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Mac Pro Overview
3. Performance Comparison with Ryzen and Threadripper
4. GPU Options and Upgrades
5. Recommended Configurations and Use Cases
6. Cost Considerations
7. Aftermarket Upgrades and Accessories
8. Alternative Platforms
9. Target Market and Conclusion

Introduction

The Mac Pro, despite its drawbacks, remains a notable machine in the market. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Mac Pro, including its performance compared to Ryzen and Threadripper, GPU options and upgrades, recommended configurations for different use cases, cost considerations, aftermarket upgrades, alternative platforms, and the target market for the Mac Pro. By the end of this article, You will have a comprehensive understanding of whether the Mac Pro is the right choice for you.

Mac Pro Overview

Let's begin with an overview of the Mac Pro. While it's not a bad machine overall, the decision to choose Xeon W processors, especially at this point in time, raises some concerns. We will revisit this later in the article. To help you determine which model of the Mac Pro is suitable for your needs, we have conducted extensive testing using the 8, 16, and 28-Core Xeon W processors. Additionally, we have compared the Mac Pro with Ryzen 9 3950X and Threadripper 3970X to assess its performance as a high-end workstation. Despite some advantages, it's clear that the Mac Pro falls short in certain areas, especially when it comes to GPU-heavy tasks.

Performance Comparison with Ryzen and Threadripper

In this section, we will Delve into the performance comparison between the Mac Pro, Ryzen processors, and Threadripper processors. Using benchmarks such as Cinebench, Firefox compile test, and Puget Bench for After Effects, we will evaluate the overall performance of these systems. While the Mac Pro manages to shine in a few specific cases, the Threadripper 3970X outperforms it in most scenarios. We will also discuss the impact of the limited GPU options on the Mac Pro's performance in tasks that require extensive graphics processing.

GPU Options and Upgrades

The GPU options and upgrades for the Mac Pro are a crucial consideration. Currently, users can choose between a single GPU Radeon Pro Vega II card or the Duo version, which offers a better upgrade path in the future. We will also discuss the possibility of using third-party GPUs, such as the Radeon 7 or RX 5700 XT, to augment the stock GPU. Additionally, we will explore the upcoming Radeon Pro W5700X and its potential for improved performance and increased support for display stream compression.

Recommended Configurations and Use Cases

Based on our analysis, we will provide recommendations for various Mac Pro configurations and their suitability for different use cases. Considering factors such as RAM, CPU, GPU, and storage options, we will Outline sample configurations that serve as a good starting point for users looking to purchase a Mac Pro. It's important to keep in mind individual requirements and use cases for optimal configuration.

Cost Considerations

The cost of the Mac Pro can be a significant factor in the decision-making process. We will break down the pricing of different components and upgrades, including RAM, CPU, GPU, and additional storage options. We will also discuss the benefits of installing third-party memory and explore cost-effective alternatives to Apple's offerings. By understanding the cost implications, users can make informed decisions regarding their Mac Pro purchase.

Aftermarket Upgrades and Accessories

In this section, we will explore the aftermarket upgrade options and accessories available for the Mac Pro. We will discuss the possibility of adding internal drive bays, RAID controllers, and expanded storage. Additionally, we will highlight the benefits of utilizing NAS for expanded storage capabilities. Attention will also be drawn to the presence of dual 10-gigabit Ethernet ports and their significance for users who require faster connectivity.

Alternative Platforms

Given the limitations and drawbacks of the Mac Pro, we will consider alternative platforms that may offer better performance and cost efficiency for users. By examining competing platforms, such as those featuring AMD's Threadripper or EPYC processors, we can assess their suitability for high-end workstation requirements. We will also explore the impact of Apple's decision to not optimize their software for AMD's chiplet CPU architecture.

Target Market and Conclusion

Finally, we will discuss the target market for the Mac Pro and provide a concluding overview of our findings. While the Mac Pro offers elegance and innovation, its price and performance may not meet the expectations of certain users. We will highlight the specific markets where the Mac Pro may still be a viable option, such as the audio engineering industry. Ultimately, readers will be able to determine if the Mac Pro aligns with their specific needs as a high-end workstation.

Highlights:

• Performance of the Mac Pro compared to Ryzen and Threadripper processors
• GPU options and upgrades for the Mac Pro
• Recommended configurations for different use cases
• Cost considerations and cost-effective alternatives
• Aftermarket upgrades and accessories for the Mac Pro
• Exploration of alternative platforms
• Target market for the Mac Pro and concluding remarks

FAQ:

1. Is the Mac Pro a suitable choice for high-end workstations?

   • While the Mac Pro offers some advantages, its performance, particularly in GPU-heavy tasks, falls short compared to alternative platforms such as those featuring AMD's Threadripper processors. It may not be the most suitable choice for all high-end workstation requirements.

2. Can I upgrade the GPU in the Mac Pro?

   • Yes, the Mac Pro allows for GPU upgrades. Users can choose between the single GPU Radeon Pro Vega II card or the Duo version. Additionally, third-party GPUs like the Radeon 7 or RX 5700 XT can be utilized for augmented performance.

3. What are the cost considerations when purchasing a Mac Pro?

   • The Mac Pro's pricing varies depending on the chosen components and upgrades. Users should carefully assess the costs of RAM, CPU, GPU, and storage options. Consideration of third-party memory and aftermarket upgrades can provide cost-efficient alternatives.

4. Are there alternative platforms that offer better performance and cost efficiency than the Mac Pro?

   • Yes, alternative platforms featuring AMD's Threadripper or EPYC processors can provide better performance and cost efficiency compared to the Mac Pro. It is recommended to explore these options before making a final decision.

5. Is the Mac Pro targeted towards a specific market?

   • The Mac Pro may still be a viable option for specific markets, such as the audio engineering industry, due to its unique features and capabilities. However, for many users, alternative platforms may offer better performance and value for money.