I do heavy Photoshop / Illustrator work, video editing (4K video generally), and After Effects. These days though, I really only do this kind of work for freelance jobs which come up here and there throughout the year. At my day job I am more of a creative manager / ADHD multitasker / builder of presentations and don't often get into those apps much anymore.
Even though I don't do those freelance jobs every single day anymore, my 2019 i9 with 64gb RAM is no longer able to keep up when I do get them. I am curious which (over the top) configuration would work better for me. Rendering speed will be nice, but since I don't do that every single day, I am more looking for a machine that can be just as useful for day to day use as it can for the heavy jobs.
The configuration options I'm reviewing are:
M3 Max 16-Core | 64GB RAM
M3 Max 14-Core | 96GB Ram
M3 Pro 12-Core | 36GB RAM (for $1k less - though I'm inclined to round up and get a more future-proof machine)
You can absolutely do everything you need with the M3 Pro 12/36. I think it's more than enough. I think that getting the Max out of the Max would need a Mac Studio instead of a laptop.
If you want to future proof, 16/64 definitely, 96 is pointless for your workflow.
But the thing is, by the time Pro/12/36 becomes obsolete, M5/6 will probably be a thing and you'll be better off getting a new machine rather than using an old M3 Max. If I had to bet, those laptops will have an updated look as well so you probably won't like your old laptop anyway :)
Thank you for the in depth response. I have had the same thought about upgrading more often / with a lower end model, though the top of the line M3s seem so powerful they could easily last me much longer than that. The form factor is a good point, but most of the time I am using the laptop on my desk plugged into two external monitors, so that will probably bother me less.
At the end of the day, if your tool is making you money, then the expense is justifiable.
Go get that 16/64 you lucky dog you :)