Apple’s MacBook Lineup Accounts for 86% of 2024 Shipments, with High-End ‘Pro’ Models Featuring M4 Leading the Way Thanks to Exceptional Features

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Apple notably restructured the pricing and specifications of its M4 MacBook Pro lineup. This bold strategy appears to have yielded impressive results, as new data shows these models represented over 50% of all Mac shipments for the year. Specifically, the M-series MacBook models captured an astounding 86% market share within the 12-month period, while traditional desktops contributed minimally to overall shipments.

M-Series MacBooks: Performance Meets Portability

The transition from Intel processors to Apple’s proprietary M-series chips has significantly shifted consumer perceptions regarding MacBooks. According to Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), these advanced notebooks have rapidly become the leading choice among Apple’s laptop offerings. In 2024, the MacBook Pro models were responsible for 53% of total notebook shipments, contrasting with the 33% share held by the more budget-friendly MacBook Air models. Despite the latter’s cost-effective appeal, it is the ‘Pro’ series that continues to capture consumer interest.

Several factors contribute to this trend. The MacBook Pro lineup offers a range of configuration options while providing features absent in the MacBook Air, such as the vibrant mini-LED display with ProMotion technology. Moreover, the presence of active cooling systems equipped with fans enables MacBook Pro devices to maintain robust performance even under demanding tasks. Conversely, desktop models like the iMac, while utilizing the same system-on-chip (SoC) as their portable counterparts, fall short in sales. This is primarily due to their stationary nature, limiting their versatility.

Apple MacBook and Mac shipment statistics for 2024

While desktops may offer a larger display, this challenge can easily be mitigated with external monitors available for MacBook models. Currently, buyers can find the base 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro on Amazon for $1, 399, featuring impressive specifications: 16GB of unified RAM, 512GB of SSD storage, a 10-core CPU, and 10-core GPU. Additionally, the more powerful M4 Pro configurations have seen significant price reductions, which likely contributes to the heightened demand.

On the lower end, the newly released M4 MacBook Air models—both 13-inch and 15-inch—are anticipated to show future growth in shipment numbers as they enter the market. The 13-inch base model can now be purchased for as low as $949.99, boasting a 10-core CPU, an 8-core GPU, 16GB of unified RAM, and 256GB of internal storage. However, despite Apple’s strategy of competitive pricing, it continues to draw criticism for the premium prices attached to RAM and storage upgrades, a situation that will likely persist unless there is a change in policy.

For more detailed insights, refer to the source: CIRP.

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