Which M1 Mac should I buy?

[rdawo]

Hi,
You most definitely don't know who I am so let me introduce myself quickly:
My name is Ryan and I'm a high school student in Nebraska.

I'm currently saving up to buy a new laptop: and since the M1 computers have come out, I've been interested. However, I don't know which one I should get. Here's what I'm interested in using the computer for:

• Using some creative apps such as Photoshop, After Effects, and Final Cut Pro to put things together
• Using the computer to complete assignments for school instead of the school Chromebook provided
• Playing light games like Among Us with friends
• and lastly, using it to build and edit websites with WordPress for companies when I learn more about it and start my business

I hope that's enough information to make a suggestion, however, if more is needed, just let me know.

Thanks!

 

[flaubert]

I don't think any of your workflow applications are going to be a differentiator on this - an M1 Mac is going to be fine, regardless of model. I mean, they are literally the same processor in all of them. Final Cut Pro is going to be the most demanding; if you're going to live in FCP for long periods then you might want either the MacBook Pro or the Mac Mini, because of the active cooling fan. You might be interested in this off the cuff review that pits a fully spec'ed out 16" Intel MacBook Pro against the M1 MacBook Air (as he says, literally the cheapest Apple laptop you can buy):

M1 MacBook Air vs 16" MacBook Pro - Final Cut Pro Test

Which is best in the battle of M1 MacBook Air vs 16" MacBook Pro? My Final Cut Pro test didn't disappoint.

markellisreviews.com

If it were me, I'd buy the MacBook Air, and put the savings toward a RAM upgrade at time of purchase.

 

[ght56]

I would personally get a M1 Pro with 16 GB of RAM if you intend to use After Effects a good bit. I would definitely want the fan inside the Pro and I would absolutely NOT buy an 8 GB machine in your situation.