Apple's latest 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip features a new mode for intensive, sustained workloads. Here's how to enable it.
The new 16-inch MacBook Pro with M1 Max chip includes a new High Power Mode that Apple says optimizes performance to better support resource-intensive tasks like color grading 8K ProRes videos. The new mode is available in macOS Monterey and is designed to be enabled when users are rendering larger files or doing graphics-intensive tasks that require an extra performance boost. In other words, it won't be beneficial for typical tasks like browsing the web. Whether it will boost performance in games remains to be seen. When High Performance Mode is enabled, resource-intensive system processes are deprioritized to utilize the full capabilities of the M1 Max processor. This setting is basically the opposite of "power saving mode," which aims to reduce system performance in favor of longer battery life.
M1 Max MacBook Pro 16″: How to activate high performance mode
Below you will find a step-by-step guide that shows you how to activate the new mode. But please note that the high performance mode is only available on the 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip. This means that MacBook Pro models with the M1 Pro are not included. The 14-inch device, which can be equipped with an M1 Max, also does not have the feature.
- In macOS, click the Apple icon in the menu bar and select System Preferences.
- Now navigate to the battery icon in the settings window.
- Select “Power Supply” in the sidebar.
- Where it says “Power mode,” click the selection box and select High performance.
Now the high performance mode should take effect. Please note that the mode can lead to louder fan noise. Have fun with your new MacBook. Are you looking for new accessories? Then take a look in our Amazon Storefront - there you will find numerous products from leading suppliers. (Image: Apple)
