I wanted to share two fantastic resources that I came across recently that will be helpful for Mac users.
First up is Glenn Fleishman’s Apple Specs Database which lets you search technical specifications by model — iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and more. But the really interesting feature that I haven’t seen elsewhere is search by spec. Simply select a specific spec and see every Apple product model that includes it, along with its release date and more. Wild!
Alongside hardware, the Apple Specs Database includes a tab for searching OS features across macOS, iOS, iPadOS, tvOS and visionOS. So if you’re curious to know what key features were introduced in macOS 11 Big Sur, you can see them at a glance.
Next up is the Mac Cable Bandwidth Calculator, found on the RetinaDesk website. This site lets you select your input signal (4K, 1440p, etc.), resolution, refresh rate and more and provides a list of compatible cables that can carry that signal. The “Try a Scenario” option includes selections like 4K Gaming on a Mac, 8K 60Hz, etc. so you can get a feel for the types of cables that will work best for your setup.
And when it comes time to upgrade your external display, be sure to check out RetinaDesk’s reviews and buying guides for the best 5K and 6K displays for the Mac.
-Krishna