Skip to main content

I saw the new Space Black MacBook Pro, and it’s stunning

Two MacBooks Pro renders side by side against a black backround.
Apple

It’s not often that MacBook Pros get new color options. But with this most recent update to M3 chips, the MacBook Pro will add Space Black, a color that first appeared on the iPhone, to the mix. I was shown an early preview of the new color ahead of the “Scary Fast” launch event, and I have to say: I’m smitten.

This new Space Black is not true black, of course. In truth, it’s a slightly darker gray than Space Gray, which it replaces. And it’s a good thing this isn’t true black. Because remember, this is aluminum, and Apple isn’t just slapping a coating or layer of paint on here like so many laptop manufacturers do when making true black aluminum laptops. These laptops, such as most gaming laptops or even something like the Surface Laptop, tend to scratch easily and fade over time.

A new chemical compound is being used to achieve this color, and the result is not only a darker color. It’s also designed to deter fingerprints, which is another problem with laptops that are all black. And remember, this is a laptop. Your palms and fingers are going to be all over this thing.

The keyboard of the Space Black MacBook Pro.
Apple

How badly a device attracts fingerprints can’t be tested in the few minutes I had with the new MacBook Pro (unless it’s really bad), but I did get to handle it a bit. I’m happy to report that the surface of the device doesn’t feel any different to the touch either. Because, again, this isn’t an additional coating added on top.

The Space Black color is exclusive to the M3 Pro and M3 Max configurations of the MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch). If you opt for the entry-level, 14-inch M3 MacBook Pro, you’ll still have the option of Space Gray instead of the new Space Black.

Editors' Recommendations

Luke Larsen
Luke Larsen is the Senior editor of computing, managing all content covering laptops, monitors, PC hardware, Macs, and more.
iPad Pro M4 vs. MacBook Air M3: a harder choice than ever
iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard.

The line between the iPad Pro and the MacBook Air has always been slim. Despite being very different devices, they're the two 13-inch devices in Apple's lineup -- and with the updated M4 iPad Pro, they are more competitive with each other than ever.

There's a lot we still don't know about the M4 iPad Pro, but here's a preliminary look at how the two devices stack up against each other.
Specs

Read more
MacBook Pro OLED: Here’s everything we know so far
Halo running on a MacBook Pro.

While many of Apple’s laptop rivals have embraced OLED screens, Apple has stuck firmly with mini-LED in its MacBook Pro -- and the results have been spectacular. As we said when we reviewed the M3 Max MacBook Pro, it has the best display out of any laptop, bar none.

Yet, there whispers that Apple is working on something even better: its own brand of OLED display that could take the MacBook Pro to the next level. It’s still early days, and there are all sorts of different rumors flying about, but it seems that something big is definitely in the works.

Read more
Here’s everything we know about the M4 MacBook Pro so far
An open MacBook Pro on a table.

With the launch of the M4 iPad Pro, you might be wondering what’s in the cards for the MacBook Pro. Is it following hot on the heels of Apple’s flagship iPad, or will we have a significant wait before Apple’s laptop gets an upgrade?

We’ve scoured the rumor mill to find the answer, as well as worked out what sort of performance, features and designs we can expect. If you’re interested in learning more about the upcoming M4 MacBook Pro, you’re in the right place.
Price and release date

Read more