Now powered by Apple’s M1 CPU, the 13-inch MacBook Pro remains a workhorse for those who want a compact macOS laptop that's still powerful enough to perform processor-intensive workflows. Find support for our complete range of memory and system storage, along with helpful information on warranties, installation guides and firmware updates.
Many 15-inch MacBook Pro notebooks have two graphics processors (GPU)—a discrete GPU and an integrated GPU. The discrete GPU provides substantial graphics performance but uses more energy. The integrated GPU optimizes battery life by using less energy.
Check if the discrete or integrated GPU is in use
To see which graphics cards are in use, choose Apple () menu > About this Mac. The graphics cards currently in use appear next to Graphics. Learn which integrated GPUs your Mac might have.
Check if an app is using the dedicated GPU
Apple Macbook Pro Update 2021
To see if an app is using the higher-performance discrete GPU, open Activity Monitor and click the Energy tab. If you don't see the Requires High Perf GPU column, your computer only has one graphics processor.
In this example, iMovie and Final Cut Pro are using the higher-performance discrete GPU:
Apple Macbook Pro Updates
Learn more
Here are a few examples of apps and accessories that use the higher-performance discrete GPU:
- iMovie
- Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign
- An external display
Learn how to use an external graphics processor (eGPU) with your Mac.
Apple Macbook Pro Update 2021
Learn how to set the graphics performance on your MacBook Pro or MacBook Pro with Retina display computer.