Following the update of Apple‘s professional computer lineup, the Mac Pro retains its modular nature but now features the powerful M2 Ultra processor. While Apple Silicon chips offer numerous benefits, such as increased performance and energy efficiency, they come with limitations in terms of expandability. Unlike its Intel-based predecessor, the new Mac Pro no longer allows for RAM expansion, GPU customization, or CPU replacement.
It is not expandable as it happened in the Mac Pro with Intel
The absence of expandability options in the Apple Silicon architecture means that users cannot upgrade the RAM capacity or swap out the integrated graphics processing unit (GPU). Additionally, the M2 Ultra processor itself cannot be replaced, as it is an integral part of the system. However, despite these limitations, the Mac Pro still offers impressive functionality and performance thanks to its modular design and the potential to utilize various expansion slots.
In the next section, we will delve into the available expansion options for the Mac Pro, shedding light on what can be connected to this powerful workstation.
What happens with the cards of the Mac Pro of 2019
One of the standout features of the previous model, championed by Apple, was its compatibility with hardware expansions. These expansions were available from Apple itself or authorized third-party manufacturers, albeit at a significant cost. Some of these accessories included:
- Apple Afterburner Card: This card was specifically designed to enhance video codec performance during rendering, with a price tag of 2,300 euros.
- MPX Module with Radeon Pro W6900X: An expansion module featuring a powerful GPU with 32GB of GDDR6 RAM. It not only boosted the overall performance of the Mac Pro but also provided additional ports. This module came at a price of 6,900 euros.
- MPX Module with Radeon Pro W6800X: Similar to the previous peripheral, this module offered improved graphics performance and carried a price tag of 3,200 euros.
However, it’s important to note that all these expansions are exclusively compatible with the 2019 Mac Pro model. So, what about the 2023 Mac Pro? Apple clarifies this by stating, “The Mac Pro is powered by the M2 Ultra chip, which includes a configurable GPU with up to 76 cores. The GPU is integrated into the M2 Ultra chip and does not support additional graphics processors such as PCIe graphics cards or MPX modules. The number of GPU cores can be configured at the time of purchase.” Essentially, this means that, like other models, any hardware expansions we purchase for the Mac Pro are limited to the processor configuration we choose at the time of purchase.
And what is it that we can connect?
Apple also provides information regarding the supported accessories for the new 2023 Mac Pro. According to the company:
“In your Mac Pro, you have the flexibility to install a wide range of PCIe cards, including fiber channel cards, fiber network cards, video and audio I/O cards, storage cards, and Ethernet cards. Once you have installed a PCIe card, it is recommended to consult the card manufacturer for any necessary macOS drivers to ensure full functionality of the card. Please note that PCIe cards utilizing 32-bit option ROMs are not compatible with the Mac Pro.”
This means that users have the ability to expand the capabilities of their Mac Pro by installing various PCIe cards that cater to different needs. However, it is important to verify with the card manufacturer if any specific drivers are required for proper functionality. Additionally, it is worth noting that PCIe cards utilizing 32-bit option ROMs are not compatible with the Mac Pro.