If you are both a MacBook fan and a secret gamer, you may be looking for a model to do your hobbies and work on the same computer. Yes, MacBooks are almost perfect computers, especially for office workers, software developers, graphic designers and many other work areas. But can you play games on a MacBook Air? Or does a MacBook Pro provide the necessary flexibility when you want to play games?
Today we'll talk about the best MacBook models for gaming and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Mac in the gaming world. Let's get started!
Is MacBook Good For Gaming?
Let's start with a clear answer: They are definitely not ideal . Of course, you can run and play some games. However, due to their technical features, Macs do not meet the software requirements of the gaming ecosystem. This does not mean that they are worse than gaming computers. Macs have a separate operating system that works perfectly in their original ecosystem. This operating system is what causes Macs to fail to provide the necessary results in terms of graphics and GPU performance.
Apple Uses Different GPU Technology
But why?
The GPU is the part that gives life to all the graphics you see on your computer screen. In other words, the graphics processing unit. Each of the visual elements on your monitor gains quality according to the power of the GPU performance. Standard gaming computers aim to increase their gaming performance by using a discrete or integrated GPU. Discrete GPUs allow the computer to have a separate graphics unit that it uses only for gaming. GPU units can be configured on many gaming computers.
The GPU used in MacBooks are unique GPU units that do not meet the demands of the MacOS operating system and the popular gaming ecosystem. They are less customizable. That's why MacBooks are listed with several different GPU options when sold.
Can You Play Games on a MacBook Air?
Not a good idea. First of all, most entry-level MacBook Airs with M1 chips don't have active cooling technology. This means that when you try to load up and play a 4K game, for example, you'll get both poor graphics performance and fan noise. MacBook Airs Even playing games with less complex graphics, such as The Sims 4, can cause overheating.
Can You Play Games On A MacBook Pro?
Okay, let's say you have a MacBook Pro with both integrated and discrete GPUs and higher graphics performance. In that case, there are many games you can run. But there is a disadvantage that some essential gaming apps are not available on MacOS.
Popular Gaming Apps Not Supported on Mac
For example, a significant portion of modern games use DirectX 12 for visual enhancement. Apple does not support this application because it uses its own technology, the Metal API, instead of this classic application.
So in that case, will you not be able to run those games at all?
You can run it. Software that acts as an extra compatibility layer, such as CrossOver, can enable third-party applications that the Metal API does not normally run. However, this causes a decrease in the performance of the actual application. It also requires more storage space on your computer.
Many Games Are Not Developed for MacOS
Many games are not developed for the Mac's native operating system. Therefore, developers need to use different software to make the game accessible on the Mac. Normally, for example, a game developed for the PC can be played on the PlayStation with minor differences, but Apple's need for such special work limits the accessible games and ecosystem. Moreover, many port software used is not very efficient. Many games can come with bugs or graphical problems when remastered for the Mac.
Doesn't MacBook Have Its Own Gaming Platforms?
However, it should be noted that Apple is developing Apple Arcade more and more each passing day to overcome this problem. Arcade is an ecosystem where you can access games developed for Mac. There are currently more than 200 games in Arcade. If you are a MacBook user, you can buy a membership and play the games without ads and without interruption. Those who have recently purchased an Apple device can use Arcade for free for the first 3 months. Although Apple Game Center and Arcade are not accessible in every country, they are actively used in Türkiye. Here access single and multiplayer games and create a player profile If you are going to actively play games, let's say you should turn to MacBook Pros.
You can learn more about Apple Arcade here.
Which Macs Should You Avoid for Gaming?
First of all, you should stay away from all MacBook models with low GPU power. First and foremost among these are Mac Minis and MacBook Airs. A MacBook Air that will easily run the necessary applications in a normal student life can suddenly overheat when trying to play The Sims. We're not even talking about more complex 4K video games.
But if you already have a MacBook Air and you're wondering "What to play on MacBook Air?", we can recommend two games: Stardew Valley or Graveyard Keeper. Both are simple graphics games that can run on low GPUs.
If you are looking for MacBook recommendations for students, you can check out this content.
Which MacBook Should You Buy for Gaming?
1. 16-inch MacBook Pro: With its high graphics technology and wide screen that will increase your gaming experience, the 16-inch 2023 MacBook Pro is one of the best options. You can choose an M1 or M2 processor. The model number will be A2485 or A2780 accordingly. The device has a separate GPU, which will allow you to get high performance without affecting the CPU during the game. The extra USB ports of this device are also quite advantageous. Don't forget to buy your new MacBook Pro 16-inch case from KraftCover.
2. Desktop 21.5 Inch iMac : You can give up on MacBook and choose iMac. You can get good performance thanks to its excellent 4K display. But if you upgrade the existing discrete GPU, you will be more satisfied.
Game Development on MacBook: Create Your Own Game
Instead of playing AAA games on your MacBook, why not develop your own? With Apple’s Swift and Metal framework, it is possible to develop games from beginner to professional level.
Great Tools to Get You Started:
- Unity (free version available)
- Godot (completely free and open source)
- Game Maker Studio 2
- Unreal Engine
With these platforms, you can start from simple 2D games and create games in your own vision over time. Moreover, if you develop a game for Apple Arcade, you can have the opportunity to work directly with Apple.
Sample Startup Projects:
- 2D Platform Game
- Simple Puzzle Games
- Hyper-Casual Mobile Games
Tip: 60% of indie games on the Mac App Store were developed on MacBooks. You too can be a part of this ecosystem.
