The newly launched M4 MacBook Pro has brought an exciting upgrade with its nano-textured display, a feature that reduces glare while maintaining color accuracy and brightness. While the matte finish is a familiar concept (Apple first introduced nano-texture with the Pro Display XDR), its inclusion on the MacBook Pro has been eagerly anticipated. However, is it truly revolutionary, or just a modest improvement?
Nano-texture technology uses microscopic etchings on the glass surface to scatter light, dramatically reducing reflections and glare. This is particularly beneficial for those who work outdoors or in bright environments. Unlike traditional matte screens, which can compromise clarity and vibrancy, the nano-texture display preserves sharpness and color accuracy, even in challenging lighting.
Apple’s decision to offer this as an upgrade option for the M4 series MacBook Pro is significant. The $150 price tag for the nano-textured display is an additional investment, but it promises a smoother, glare-free viewing experience—ideal for users who frequently work in direct sunlight or need a screen that performs in diverse environments. The display offers up to 1,000 nits of brightness for SDR content outdoors, and 1,600 nits for HDR, making it particularly strong for media professionals or anyone working under bright conditions.
While early reviews have praised the feature, some concerns persist. Experts note that although the nano-texture significantly improves visibility, it may slightly reduce contrast and black levels compared to glossy displays. Users also report that the texture can reveal fingerprints more easily, which may detract from its overall appearance.
Nonetheless, for those who work outside or in bright offices, the nano-textured display is a game-changer. Its ability to improve usability without sacrificing color accuracy or sharpness is a win.
Will this technology make its way into other Apple devices like iPhones? Only time will tell, but for now, the M4 MacBook Pro’s nano-textured display is definitely a standout feature for those in need of a versatile, glare-free viewing experience.