Understanding M1 Mac Issues

As I await the arrival of my own M1 MacBook Air, I can't help but wonder why these concerns aren't more widely discussed. For full transparency, I've been on a waiting list for over a month due to back orders, but I'm scheduled to receive it soon.

Being budget-conscious, I've taken my time researching potential problems with the M1 Macs, enabling me to share insights that could guide your own purchasing choices. The M1 chip undoubtedly represents a significant advancement in consumer electronics. However, it's essential to temper our excitement with the reality that these machines do come with their share of bugs—some of which might give you pause.

Common Bugs to Consider

Here are three prevalent issues with the M1 Macs that could influence your decision:

Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

Many users have reported inconsistent Bluetooth connections, particularly with devices like the Mac Mini. This often results in dropped connections with wireless accessories, including mice, keyboards, and even Apple's AirPods. The Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, popular among many, has also experienced similar problems.

In most cases, the workaround involves unpairing and then repairing the Bluetooth device, which can be inconvenient. While some believe this issue is more related to macOS Big Sur than the M1 hardware itself, the Mac Mini has had a longstanding reputation for unreliable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi performance, even with Intel models.

Fortunately, Apple has acknowledged this and made improvements in the latest macOS update, version 11.2, which specifically addresses Bluetooth reliability.

The first video titled "All M1 Macs are still INCREDIBLY underrated" explores how these issues might be overshadowed by the chip's capabilities, offering a broader perspective on the M1 Macs’ value.

Display Compatibility Challenges

A well-known limitation of M1 Macs is their inability to support more than one external monitor without employing workarounds, such as utilizing DisplayPort or Sidecar with an iPad. Apple openly mentions this in the technical specifications for all M1 models.

For casual users, a single external display may suffice. However, compatibility problems with certain monitors—especially high-refresh rate gaming displays—are concerning. Initially, many users discovered that their M1 Macs were not utilizing the full potential of their 60 or 120Hz monitors, prompting Apple to release an update in macOS 11.1.

Moreover, some users have reported that their MacBooks are overly selective when it comes to certain monitors, such as those from BenQ. While this doesn't imply that M1 Macs will be incompatible with all monitors, it's wise to verify compatibility, particularly if you rely heavily on external displays for your work.

The second video titled "Display Issues with MacBook Pro M1 and Others in 2021 and 2022!" provides further insights on these compatibility challenges, detailing user experiences and potential solutions.

Bricked Motherboards Due to Dongles

The limited number of ports on the new MacBooks has been widely criticized, and most buyers seem to have accepted that dongles are a necessary accessory. However, a significant concern arises from reports on forums like Reddit, where users have bricked their devices while using certain dongles.

While this issue doesn't impact every M1 Mac, it's crucial to exercise caution. The problem often relates to dongles that offer power delivery or passthrough charging. To minimize risk, consider the following recommendations:

• Purchase dongles from reputable brands, such as Apple or Anker. Avoid generic, low-quality dongles that could jeopardize your device.
• If you opt for a dongle with passthrough charging, refrain from using that feature. Instead, connect your power brick directly to the MacBook's USB-C port.
• If your monitor offers passthrough charging, connect it directly to your MacBook, bypassing the dongle.

This issue is still under investigation by Apple, but until a formal solution emerges, your best bet is to connect directly to the MacBook or use non-power delivery dongles.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy an M1 Mac?

As a technology enthusiast, I'm eager to explore this groundbreaking device, fully aware of the associated risks. The M1 Macs are still relatively new, and with time, improvements will emerge, even as new bugs are discovered.

If any of the issues I've mentioned—like unreliable Bluetooth, limited display support, or questionable passthrough charging—concern you, it might be prudent to wait until these problems are resolved, especially if you plan to rely on the laptop for your primary work tasks.

Despite these concerns, I'm ready to proceed with my purchase, as not every M1 Mac will exhibit these problems. I'm hopeful that my experience will be positive.

Make an Informed Purchase

The excitement surrounding the M1 Macs is palpable, but it's vital to remember that these devices are still in their early stages. While I don't subscribe to the notion that companies should treat customers as beta testers, buying an M1 Mac can feel like stepping into that territory.

As long as you're aware of what you're getting into, feel free to proceed with your purchase.