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Initial 16-inch MacBook Pro thermal and graphics tests highlight performance gains [Video]

While much of the attention directed at the 16-inch MacBook Pro has revolved around the return to the scissor switch Magic Keyboard and slightly larger screen, other upgrades include new graphics cards and an updated thermal system. Follow along for an initial look at how the 16-inch performs compared to the 15-inch MacBook Pro when it comes to gaming, video rendering, and a 30-minute stress test at 99 degrees Celcius.

YouTuber Dave Lee shared a look at how the new 16-inch MacBook Pro’s improvements like the new thermal system, graphics hardware, and more are affecting performance.

Over the last few years, the MacBook Pro has had some trouble with more thermal throttling than expected. With the redesigned thermal system on the new 16-inch model, Dave found moderately improved processor clock speed performance under load.

When gaming with the 16-inch MacBook Pro with both the AMD Radeon Pro 5300M and 5500M showed better frame rates at 49 and 42 at medium resolution, respectively, compared to the Vega 20 and 560X with 40 and 25 FPS.

As for video rendering, the 16-inch MacBook Pro once again shows improved performance, albeit just slightly with the new graphics chips.

Overall, Dave thinks Apple’s latest notebook offers better value than previous models. Even though he points out the lack of Wi-Fi 6, a 1080p FaceTime camera, and more he says “This is the best laptop they have made in years.”

Check out the full video below for a closer looks at the comparisons:

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Avatar for Michael Potuck Michael Potuck

Michael is an editor for 9to5Mac. Since joining in 2016 he has written more than 3,000 articles including breaking news, reviews, and detailed comparisons and tutorials.


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