The “Bang for Buck” score is a helpful metric designed to measure the overall value of a Mac computer by balancing performance against its cost. To calculate this score, we first take the Geekbench performance benchmarks for Single-Core CPU, Multi-Core CPU, and GPU Metal tests, normalize the GPU Metal score – dividing it by 7.3, and sum these normalized values to generate a combined Performance sc0re (sometimes called the Normalized Combined Geekbench Score).
This Performance score is then divided by the device’s MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) or its current market price to determine how much performance you get for each dollar spent.
A higher Bang for Buck score indicates a better performance-to-price ratio, highlighting models that provide superior value. This scoring system helps users easily compare various Mac models, allowing them to identify devices that deliver optimal performance relative to their cost, whether looking at newer releases or considering value in the used market.
The Bang for Buck grade is a curved A+ to C grading system to give you a general indication of the value of a machine. Less than a handful of machines get an A. That’s not necessarily a grade on the quality of the Mac itself.
For example, if you’re a high end video editor, you would get a lot of value of having a faster $7,000 M3 Ultra shave off a few hours of rendering times per month but if you judge that machine by the Bang for Buck grade that machine would get a C or D grade.
Bang for Buck score and grade are useful for those who are currently budget conscious. High end power users know that performance can be expensive but they also know their time is with a lot of money.