M1 Max to M4 Max. Shell compatibility.

[steffi]

There’s a small difference in dimensions between 16” M1 Max vs M4 Max.

Are the plastic hard shells for top and bottom of the case still compatible between the m1 and m4?

 

[darkpaw]

Sometimes not, because vents and whatever are in different places, however you're in luck with certain cases.

Here's an example from the Apple Store UK: https://www.apple.com/uk/shop/product/HRY12ZM/A/incase-edge-hardshell-case-for-16-macbook-pro

Expand the "Compatibility" section and you'll see that case is compatible with:

• MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2024)
• MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2023)
• MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021)

 

[steffi]

This is the one I bought

EooCoo Hard Case Clear Compatible... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KTWJRF6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Looks like they claim it’s compatible with the M4

 

[Flyview]

I didn't realize the bodies were different on M1 vs M4 MacBooks. Any sources on this?

 

[darkpaw]

I didn't realize the bodies were different on M1 vs M4 MacBooks. Any sources on this?

They shouldn't be. I was just telling the OP to confirm that the case they're buying definitely fits the model they've got.

For example, I don't know if the ports down the sides are the same distance away from the back corners on every model. Is the HDMI port on the M1 2cm away but 2.1cm away on the M4? I don't know; I can't see that sort of information anywhere.

Case manufacturers create their cases for a particular model, but will certify it for a later model if it still fits. That's what Apple's website shows in the Compatibility section. Buy one that you're being told definitely fits is the message.

 

[steffi]

FWIW the old case seems to fit without issue.