

When Apple introduced new MacBook Pro models during its "Scary Fast" event this week it also introduced a weakness to the range that the M2 models didn't have.
That's because the previous 14-inch MacBook Pro started with a step-up version of Apple Silicon in the M2 Pro and at a higher price point, therefore. Apple opted to retain the 13-inch MacBook Pro as its entry-level alternative.
Now though, with the latest range refresh, it has scrapped the 13-inch variant, replacing it with a cheaper, standard M3-powered 14-inch MacBook Pro. That's great in many regards. but in doing so it has introduced a caveat to the line-up – the entry-level M3 MacBook Pro cannot serve two external monitors.
This is the reason I personally opted for a 14-inch M2 Pro MacBook Pro over a new MacBook Air earlier this year. I drive two external monitors and only the Pro sported that feature.
However, some might now opt for a 14-inch model not knowing the distinction.
The issue lies with Apple's base Silicon, no matter the nomenclature. Only the M3 Pro and M3 Max chipsets are capable of outputting video to two external monitors simultaneously.
In addition, the M3 MacBook Pro only comes with Thunderbolt 3 ports, not Thunderbolt 4 which can be found on the M3 Pro and M3 Max models. This means the entry-level MacBook Pro is only capable of outputting to one display at a maximum of 6K 60Hz.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Of course, this might not bother you. And you might instead be thrilled that there is a more affordable 14-inch Pro laptop at last.
Just keep in mind that, if you do want to run two external monitors, you will need to opt for the 14-inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro that starts at £2,099 / $1,999.
If you're not so fussed, the M3 MacBook Pro models start at £1,699 / $1,599.
And, it's not a concern at all if you're in the market for a larger MacBook Pro – all 16-inch models support two external displays and start at £2,599 / $2,499. There is no 16-inch M3 MacBook Pro.

Rik is T3’s news editor, which means he looks after the news team and the up-to-the-minute coverage of all the hottest gadgets and products you’ll definitely want to read about. And, with more than 35 years of experience in tech and entertainment journalism, including editing and writing for numerous websites, magazines, and newspapers, he’s always got an eye on the next big thing.
Rik also has extensive knowledge of AV, TV streaming and smart home kit, plus just about everything to do with games since the late 80s. Prior to T3, he spent 13 years at Pocket-lint heading up its news team, and was a TV producer and presenter on such shows as Channel 4's GamesMaster, plus Sky's Games World, Game Over, and Virtual World of Sport.
-
Apple's Severance computer may have been a joke, but the keyboard is coming for real
Tell us where we can sign up!
By Britta O'Boyle
-
Apple Watch is set to get Apple Intelligence this year, but only with a little help from a friend
Bring on watchOS 12
By Britta O'Boyle
-
iPad reportedly getting major makeover and your current model could benefit too
Apple is said to be making a change that iPad power users have been wanting for years
By Carrie Marshall
-
AirPods Max finally get the great free upgrade Apple promised
Here's how to make sure your headphones are running the right firmware
By Britta O'Boyle
-
Apple TV gets a free update that makes it more simple to use
Apple has released tvOS 18.4 with a few design tweaks for its TV boxes
By Rik Henderson
-
Your iPhone gets some new tricks - here’s what it can do now
The new emojis and priority notifications are probably our favourite
By Britta O'Boyle
-
Older iPhones at risk of being left behind when iOS 19 arrives – is your device one of them?
Apple will reportedly drop three iPhone models when it comes to the iOS 19 update
By Carrie Marshall
-
Your next MacBook Pro could be a game-changer for three good reasons
Apple will reportedly upgrade next year's MacBook Pro in three major ways
By Rik Henderson