Which is better for video editing?

The M1 Max. Its 32-core GPU and up to 64GB of memory export and scrub high-resolution footage faster. The M1 Pro handles 4K editing fine but slows on heavy effects and multicam work.

Is the M1 Max worth the extra over the M1 Pro?

At the same $999.00 price as of November 3, 2026, the M1 Max is the better buy for GPU work. If you mostly browse, write and edit photos, the M1 Pro's 1TB SSD is the more useful upgrade.

Which has more storage?

The M1 Pro listing, with a 1TB SSD versus 512GB on the M1 Max listing. Both use NVMe SSDs.

Do they have the same screen and battery?

Yes. Both use the 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display at 3456 x 2234 with ProMotion up to 120Hz, and both are rated up to 21 hours of movie playback.

Battery life is rated the same at up to 21 hours of movie playback. The M1 Max draws more power under sustained GPU load, so it will drain faster in heavy work.

Can I add more memory later?

No. Unified memory is soldered on both. Choose the 32GB or 64GB M1 Max configuration up front if you need it.

MacBook Pro (2021) 16-inch - Apple M1 Max 10-core and 32-core GPU - 32GB RAM - SSD 512GB - Standard display vs MacBook Pro 16” (M1 Pro, 2021)

Both are 16-inch MacBook Pros from 2021 with the same chassis, Liquid Retina XDR display and 21-hour battery rating. The M1 Max model adds GPU cores and can be configured with up to 64GB of memory, which matters for video editing, 3D and heavy multitasking. The M1 Pro listing is the cheaper way in at $999.00 at Macpro-la as of November 3, 2026, and its 1TB SSD beats the 512GB on the M1 Max listing. Buy the M1 Max for GPU-heavy work; buy the M1 Pro to save money and get more storage.

Today the MacBook Pro 16” (M1 Pro, 2021) costs $200.00 less at its best price.

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