Performance on fully spec'd 2018 15" MacBook Pro vs 2019 16'' MacBook Pro?

[superspiffy]

How fast is the 2019 fully spec'd 16 inch MacBook Pro compared to the fully spec'd 2018 15 inch MacBook Pro? I mostly use Lightroom and Final Cut Pro and do some gaming on Steam and Battle.net via Boot Camp.

I have the 2018 MBP with i9, 32 GB Ram, a 2 TB SSD and Vega 20. I'm happy with it but I worry that the thermal throttling issue would run the system too hot and the components could wear down over time. I aim to keep my workhorse Macs for about 6-8 years so I'm debating whether to just keep it or sell it to upgrade to the 2019 16 inch model, and if taking the loss will be worth it.

 

[ctjack]

Spoiler: Video

Basically it is better. But not worth it in your case. Gaming got better, but still runs very hot. And will always do. Sleek designs is not about gaming at all.
Lightroom - no difference.
FCPX - editing flow and smoothness is all the same. Difference starts at stabilizing and editing something above 4k video.
Gaming - you will lose money to flip MBP 15 to 16. For this lost money you could buy PS, Xbox, or Ryzen laptop or Ryzen desktop PC. And your gaming experience will be better.

but I worry that the thermal throttling issue would run the system too hot and the components could wear down over time.

If you are hitting thermal throttling zone with MBP 15, then you are definitely choosing the wrong machine. Because MBP 16 thermal throttling ceiling is maybe 20-25% higher. But that is nothing compared to iMac, Imac Pro, Mac Pro or any desktop PC. So 20% better thermals won't save you, if you often hit the temp roof with your MBP 15.
Second, thermals is not an issue and laptop handles it by itself. The only thing, which will be bad is battery because of high temps. No danger for other internal of your laptop.
Or and maybe you will just have to repaste it in year or two if you will boil it every time. So only 2 cons.

 

[maflynn]

but I worry that the thermal throttling issue would run the system too hot

You'll still incur heat particularly in Bootcamp, if you already own the 2018, I don't think its worth the upgrade but that's just me.

 

[macnmac]

OP: best buy having a sale on the 15"

might make it very worth it for you now?