Mac Studio refreshed: the M5 Ultra chip runs local AI models with 512GB of memory
Apple unveiled the new Mac Studio with M5 Max (from $2,499) and M5 Ultra (from $5,499) chips — the Ultra model's up to 512GB of unified memory can run large language models locally.
Alongside the Mac mini, Apple announced an updated version of its most powerful desktop, the Mac Studio, on August 25. The new model comes in two chip configurations: M5 Max and M5 Ultra.
The M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips deliver twice the storage speed, a 1.3x CPU performance gain, and up to 1.8x faster graphics compared to the previous generation — making the Mac Studio even better suited to video editing, 3D graphics, and scientific computing.
The standout feature is memory capacity. The M5 Max configuration supports up to 128GB of unified memory, while the M5 Ultra scales up to 512GB. That much memory lets an M5 Ultra Mac Studio run substantial large language models entirely on-device, with no internet connection required — a significant capability for developers and researchers working with AI.
The M5 Max Mac Studio starts at $2,499, while the top-tier M5 Ultra configuration starts at $5,499 — aimed at professional video studios, AI researchers, and heavy production workloads.
The new Mac Studio models go on sale alongside the Mac mini on September 22.
