💻 M4 vs M3: Should You Upgrade? (2025 In-Depth Comparison)

Apple continues to redefine laptop performance with its custom silicon chips, and the M4 chip is the latest example of that innovation. But if you already own a MacBook with the M3 chip, you might be wondering — is it really worth the upgrade?

Let’s dive deep into performance, battery life, graphics, AI capabilities, and everyday experience to see whether upgrading to M4 makes sense for you.

⚙️ 1. Overview: M4 vs M3 – What’s New?

The Apple M4 chip is built on a second-generation 3nm process, offering better power efficiency and performance per watt compared to the M3, which was the first Apple chip made with 3nm architecture.

Here’s a quick overview:

FeatureApple M3Apple M4Process | 3nm (1st gen) | 3nm (2nd gen)
CPU Cores | 8-core | 10-core
GPU Cores | Up to 10-core | Up to 12-core
Neural Engine | 16-core | 16-core (60% faster)
RAM Support | Up to 24GB unified | Up to 32GB unified
AI Performance | Strong | Significantly improved
Power Efficiency | Great | Even better

Verdict: The M4 is not just faster—it’s smarter and more energy-efficient, thanks to improved transistors and AI acceleration.

🚀 2. CPU and GPU Performance

Apple claims the M4 chip delivers up to 25% faster CPU performance and up to 30% faster GPU performance than the M3.

In benchmark tests:

• Geekbench 6 scores show the M4 achieving ~4200 (single-core) and ~16000 (multi-core).
• The M3, on the other hand, averages ~3800 (single-core) and ~14500 (multi-core).

This means tasks like video rendering, code compiling, and multitasking will feel smoother on the M4.

Graphics Improvements:
Apple continues its focus on gaming and creative workflows. With features like Dynamic Caching, Hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and Mesh Shading, the M4 GPU offers up to 40% better graphics performance — ideal for gamers, 3D designers, and video editors.

Verdict: If you’re into content creation, gaming, or heavy multitasking, the M4 upgrade is absolutely worth it.

🔋 3. Battery Life and Efficiency

One of the strongest areas of Apple Silicon is battery efficiency. The M4 chip improves upon the M3 with smarter thermal management and optimized power draw.

Apple claims up to 18 hours of battery life on the MacBook Air M4, similar to the M3, but with more performance per watt — meaning you get more done for the same energy use.

Real-world impact:
You’ll notice fewer heat spikes, quieter fans, and slightly longer standby times.

Verdict: The difference isn’t huge, but the M4 runs cooler and sustains high performance for longer periods.

🧠 4. AI and Machine Learning Power

Apple has gone big on AI performance this year, with the M4 chip’s Neural Engine delivering up to 60% faster AI processing than the M3.

That means:

• Faster background removal in photos
• Quicker transcription in apps like Notes or Voice Memos
• Better real-time translation and summarization

And as macOS Sequoia (and future versions) integrate more AI-powered features, the M4’s enhanced Neural Engine ensures better longevity and compatibility.

Verdict: The M4 is clearly built for the AI-driven future.

🖥️ 5. Display & Media Engine Enhancements

The M4 chip introduces an enhanced display engine that supports higher refresh rates and HDR improvements.
The Media Engine now supports AV1 decoding, offering better video streaming quality and reduced power consumption when watching high-res content.

This matters if you often stream 4K HDR videos, edit footage in Final Cut Pro, or use your MacBook for content creation.

Verdict: If you work with visuals or media, the M4 is a clear step up.

🧊 6. Real-World Usage: Does the M4 Feel Different?

In daily tasks—web browsing, office work, emails, or streaming—you might not notice a massive jump between the M3 and M4.

However, for professional users or those who multitask heavily (like developers, editors, or designers), the M4 feels snappier, especially when multiple apps are open simultaneously.

Animations are smoother, apps load quicker, and switching between heavy apps like Xcode and Photoshop feels effortless.

Verdict: For everyday users, the difference is subtle. For power users, it’s noticeable and worthwhile.

💸 7. Pricing and Value

Apple hasn’t drastically changed pricing with the M4 lineup. The MacBook Air M4 starts around $1,099, while M3 models might now sell for $899–$999, making them great value options.

If you’re on a budget, the M3 MacBook Air remains one of the best value laptops in 2025. But if you want future-proof performance, the M4 offers better long-term value.

Verdict:

• On a budget → Get the M3
• For future-ready performance → Go with M4

🧾 8. Should You Upgrade? (Final Verdict)

Let’s break it down by user type:

User TypeRecommendationStudent / Casual User | Stick with M3 (still excellent)
Developer / Designer | Upgrade to M4 for better multitasking and AI tools
Video Editor / 3D Artist | Definitely upgrade to M4 for GPU improvements
Gamer | M4 offers smoother frame rates and better ray tracing
Everyday Office Work | M3 is still more than enough

In short:
➡️ M3 = Great value for most users
➡️ M4 = Best for professionals, creators, and those who want longevity

📊 9. Summary Table: M4 vs M3

FeatureM3M4Process | 3nm | 3nm (2nd Gen)
CPU | Up to 8-core | Up to 10-core
GPU | Up to 10-core | Up to 12-core
Neural Engine | 16-core | 16-core (60% faster)
RAM | 8GB–24GB | 8GB–32GB
Battery | 18 hrs | 18–20 hrs
AI Features | Standard | Advanced
Media Engine | AV1 not supported | AV1 supported
Value | Excellent | Premium

🔍 Conclusion

The Apple M4 chip is a significant step forward, especially for those who rely on heavy performance, AI, and graphics capabilities. But if you already own an M3 MacBook, you’re still in great shape — that chip remains powerful enough for 90% of users.

If you’re buying a new Mac in 2025, go for the M4 for its improved efficiency, performance, and future-proofing. But if you’re just upgrading from an M3, think twice — the gains are impressive, but not essential for everyone.

💡 Final Thoughts

The M4 vs M3 debate comes down to your needs. Apple’s new M4 chip brings AI enhancements, better GPU power, and improved efficiency — but the M3 is still one of the best laptop chips in the world.

So before upgrading, ask yourself: Do I really need more power, or is my current MacBook still doing everything I need?

Either way, both chips prove one thing — Apple Silicon continues to lead the industry.