MacBook Pro M4 Max: review for local AI
The 128 GB Apple laptop for local AI - now end-of-line. We look at what matters for running LLMs locally — memory, bandwidth, speed, price — and who it is (or is not) the right buy for.
Where to buy
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Specs
| Memory | 36 to 128 GB unified (128 GB at the top) |
| Bandwidth | 546 GB/s (M4 Max 16-core) |
| Compute | Apple Silicon M4 Max, 40-core GPU, Neural Engine |
| Power | Laptop (battery) |
| Price | ~$5,899 (128 GB, last-known) |
| Largest model | 70B at Q4 (~12-20 tok/s depending on backend, MLX faster) |
Who is it for?
Running large models on the go on macOS; best as refurbished / clearance.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The only Mac laptop offering 128 GB
- 546 GB/s, MLX highly optimized for LLMs
- 70B locally, on the go
- Good deals refurbished / clearance
Cons:
- Previous generation: superseded by the MacBook Pro M5 Max (March 2026)
- No longer sold new by Apple - refurb / remaining stock
- Very expensive
- Real-time stock unconfirmed
Verdict
The only MacBook with 128 GB of unified memory, so capable of a 70B locally on the go - but it is now the previous generation (replaced by the M5 Max in March 2026). Best targeted refurbished or on clearance; otherwise the current M5 Max or a desktop Strix Halo mini PC make more sense.
FAQ
Can the MacBook Pro M4 Max run a 70B LLM locally?
70B at Q4 (~12-20 tok/s depending on backend, MLX faster).
How much does the MacBook Pro M4 Max cost?
Expect ~$5,899 (128 GB, last-known). Prices move fast — check today's price via the buy links.
Who is the MacBook Pro M4 Max for?
Running large models on the go on macOS; best as refurbished / clearance.