The recent announcement from UL Solutions at Apple’s WWDC 2025 event regarding the launch of a new version of its 3DMark benchmarking application specifically for Macs marks a significant milestone for Mac gamers. This development reflects a growing recognition of Macs as viable gaming platforms, especially with the release of high-profile titles like Assassin’s Creed: Shadows and Cyberpunk 2077 for macOS.
While Apple introduced a new Games app intended for the upcoming macOS Tahoe, many gamers were eager to learn about performance evaluation tools. The new 3DMark provides Mac users with the ability to benchmark their systems effectively, enabling comparisons not only between different Mac models but also against Windows PCs.
Exploring Benchmarking Options for Mac Users
For those looking to assess their Mac’s gaming performance, the 3DMark app is a key tool. Originally a staple for Windows gaming PCs, 3DMark’s availability on macOS opens avenues for comprehensive performance testing. The app offers various benchmarks that focus on 3D graphics performance, allowing users to gauge how their systems handle demanding games.
In addition to 3DMark, gamers can utilize built-in benchmarking tools in some titles. For instance, games such as Assassin’s Creed: Shadows feature their own performance testing options, providing players with a direct look at their frames-per-second (FPS) capabilities. However, these game-specific benchmarks may not offer insights into overall performance across different titles or systems.
For a more generalized performance overview, the popular Geekbench 6 test suite is a reliable choice. Available on multiple platforms including Windows and Linux, Geekbench facilitates comparisons across various devices. It includes CPU and GPU benchmarks, although its graphics tests primarily focus on 2D tasks, which may not fully represent 3D gaming performance.
Utilizing Apple’s Metal HUD for Performance Analysis
Apple also provides users with the Metal HUD, a tool designed to display performance metrics during gameplay. Accessible through the Terminal application, the Metal HUD allows users to see their screen resolution, refresh rate, and average FPS while playing 3D games. This feature can help gamers optimize settings for the best performance on their specific hardware.
To activate the Metal HUD, users can execute a simple command in the Terminal, making it a straightforward process for those comfortable with basic commands. Once enabled, the HUD will overlay technical information on the gaming screen, facilitating informed decisions about graphical settings.
The introduction of 3DMark for Macs has been particularly noteworthy. While an earlier version existed on the Mac App Store, it was primarily an outdated application designed for iPads and lacked modern testing capabilities. The current version available on Steam is tailored for the latest Macs equipped with Apple Silicon processors, enhancing its relevance in the current gaming landscape.
The new 3DMark includes a demo version for users to test, while the full version is priced at $34.99 or £29.50. It features four main tests designed to evaluate 3D graphics performance. Notably, these benchmarks provide scores directly comparable to those from the PC version of 3DMark, allowing for effective cross-platform assessments.
Among the tests, two notable benchmarks are Steel Nomad and WildLife Extreme, both designed to gauge performance at high resolutions. Additionally, the Solar Bay test specifically measures performance with ray-tracing technology, which has become increasingly important in modern gaming. Ray tracing simulates realistic lighting effects, demanding significant processing power, and is supported by Apple’s latest M3 and M4 processors.
As benchmarking tools become more accessible for Mac users, the ability to evaluate gaming performance is enhanced. Most options, including the demo versions of 3DMark and Geekbench, are free to use, providing gamers with valuable insights without incurring costs. This shift not only empowers Mac users but also solidifies the platform’s growing legitimacy within the gaming community.
In conclusion, the launch of 3DMark for Macs represents a crucial step in acknowledging the capabilities of Apple’s hardware for gaming. With tools like 3DMark, Metal HUD, and Geekbench, Mac users can now benchmark their systems effectively, paving the way for a more competitive gaming environment.
