These are independent reviews of the products mentioned, but TIME receives a commission when purchases are made through affiliate links at no additional cost to the purchaser.
SPECIAL MENTION: Apple’s 2020 announcement that it was transitioning away from Intel processors for its Mac desktops and laptops in favor of self-designed ARM chips similar to those used in smartphones and tablets sent shockwaves through the tech industry. A year and a half later, it’s abundantly clear that Apple made the right move. Apple’s new processor, the M1—which was first available in devices released late last year—ushered in a quantum leap in performance for the iMac, MacBook, and other products, in part by making it possible to marry hardware and software to a previously impossible degree. The company’s new M1 Pro and M1 Max, both aimed at professional users, stand to push the envelope even further. —Alex Fitzpatrick
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time