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How to configure Mac Studio M2 for Photo editing

I'm on an older desktop , Monterey. will be upgrading to Mac Studio M2. I use Photoshop and photo mechanic . editing large RAW files, but one at a time.. I'm out of touch re/memory. I have 32GB now but the RAW files will be double in size. Is this a good configuration or do I need to bump up the memory? THANKS


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Mac Pro, macOS 12.7

Posted on Nov 25, 2024 8:13 AM

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10 replies

Nov 27, 2024 6:05 PM in response to janet99x

Sizing unified RAM on Apple Silicon (M1/2/3/4) is still subject to debate. Some argue that due to the M-series design, unified RAM is more efficient & faster than on previous (Intel) Macs and that therefore you don't need as much. I don't agree with that outlook, especially for demanding apps like Photoshop, CaptureOne, Logic, Final Cut, etc.


Could you "get away" with 32GB RAM on the M2 Mac Studio? Yes, but you might not be happy with it in the long run given that the OS & apps continue to require larger & larger amounts of resources including RAM ... and you cannot upgrade the RAM later.


Considering your stated use, and buying for performance & longevity, I would go with the 64 GB RAM.


Question ... is there a reason you aren't considering an M4 Mac Mini instead of the M2 Studio? The top end Mini - M4 Pro with 64GB RAM & 1TB SSD - comes in at $2,199 ... a full $800 less than the older M2.

Nov 28, 2024 7:22 AM in response to MartinR

64GB RAM in an M2 Max Studio will be plenty for editing 50MB RAW files and will provide for significant growth in resource demands over the long run.


For comparison, I currently use a older Intel i9 iMac with 32GB RAM. I regularly edit 50MB RAW & TIFF images and 3x12MB RAW HDR merge images in Photoshop and CaptureOne ... and have never had a performance problem.


The M2 Max Studio (as well as the M4 Pro Mac mini that I suggested earlier) will dance circles around my Intel iMac.

How to configure Mac Studio M2 for Photo editing

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