iPad + AUM vs Mac Studio (M4 Max)
The Mac Studio (M4 Max) costs about $2,150 more than the iPad + AUM and buys you 8 more I/O, plus Thunderbolt and USB-A. It also costs you 1 more rack unit. Budget 60W more on the circuit.
Apple
iPad + AUMApple
Mac Studio (M4 Max)| Spec | iPad + AUM | Mac Studio (M4 Max) |
|---|---|---|
| Rack space | 1U half-rack | 2U |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs | 7.9 lbs |
| Power draw | 10W | 70W |
| Depth | 10 mm | 300 mm |
| I/O count | 1 | 9 |
| Price | ~$349 | ~$2,499 |
Highlighted where one is plainly lighter, smaller, cheaper or draws less. I/O count is left unmarked on purpose — more connectors you don't need is weight, cost and a bigger case.
Connectors only one of them has
iPad + AUM
- USB-C
Mac Studio (M4 Max)
- Thunderbolt
- USB-A
- HDMI
- RJ45 (Ethernet)
- IEC C14
Settle it in your own rack
Specs decide less than fit does. Drop either one into your rig and see the real answer — what space is left, what the circuit draws, and whether every cable it needs actually lands somewhere.
Open the rack plannerFree, no sign-up. Both units are in the catalog.