While the media is quick to praise Apple silicon Macs for their performance and efficiency, there are some things we really hate about them.
Apple has been at the top of its game since the release of the M1 Mac in November 2020. Apple silicon refers to the chip in the M1 and M2-powered Macs. The introduction of Apple silicon Macs in 2020 marked the end of the company’s 15- year partnership with Intel.
The California-based tech giant’s transition to Apple silicon chip has resulted in a significant performance improvement. But as with all things, Apple silicon Macs aren’t without their shortcomings. So, here, we’ll look at the five things we hate about Apple silicon Macs:
1. The SSD and RAM Aren’t User-Upgradeable
One of the most frustrating problems with Apple silicon Macs is that you don’t have any option to replace or upgrade its SSD and RAM down the line. They’re both soldered in place, and any attempt at trying to remove them will void your warranty.
Aside from being stuck with your current SSD and RAM, it also means that you won’t be able to upgrade to new tech that comes out in the near future, which could greatly slow down your computer’s performance in the long run.
2. No Support for Boot Camp to Run Windows
Another thing many users have complained about is the absence of Boot Camp on Apple silicon Macs. There are many pros and cons of using Boot Camp to run Windows on a Mac, but unfortunately, it’s currently unavailable on M1 and M2 Macs.
The only way to install Windows 11 on an Apple silicon Mac is by using virtualization software such as Parallels Desktop. Using virtualization software to run Windows on a Mac comes with its own set of problems, which brings us to our next point.
The lack of Boot Camp on Apple silicon Macs was bad enough, but the fact that virtualization software can only run an ARM version of Windows 11 makes it even worse. There’s no way to install the x86 version of Windows or Windows apps on M1 and M2 Macs.
You’ll be limited in terms of what Windows games you can play and what applications you can use on an ARM version of Windows 11, which is disappointing considering that virtualization on Intel Macs provided endless possibilities. Not to mention the fact that you could also run Windows on Intel Macs using Boot Camp!
4. Custom-Configuring the Mac Is Expensive
Another issue that you’d have to deal with if you’re in the market for a new Mac is the cost of configuring your machine. It could easily set you back thousands of dollars.
Whether it’s an extra charge for increased processing power, a high-performing GPU, or more RAM, it seems like Apple always finds a way to get more money from its customers. This is especially true for Apple silicon Macs, which are already some of the more expensive models on the market.
5. Apple Silicon Can’t Outperform a Discrete GPU
The CPU and the GPU in Apple silicon Macs share the same memory. It’s better optimized, especially for applications that are made specifically for Macs, but in terms of performance, it can’t compete with a discrete GPU. Yes, discrete GPUs consume more power, but their performance is much better. In fact, we believe one of the reasons you shouldn’t buy the MacBook Air M2 is its inferior GPU.
If you’re a casual user, you probably won’t notice any difference, as you can edit photos/videos and even run some games on it without facing any problems. But switching from a laptop with a discrete GPU to Apple silicon may not be as impressive if you work with graphic-intensive applications regularly.
Apple Silicon Macs Aren’t for Everyone
Overall, there are several issues with Apple silicon Macs that make these computers less desirable than other options in the market. There are many reasons to ditch the Intel Mac and switch to Apple silicon, but considering how expensive it is right now, you should probably first ask yourself if buying the new M1 or M2 Mac will make an actual difference in your daily life.
