The official brightness specifications for the Mini-LED display, as with the smaller MacBook Pro 14, apply only to HDR content. We can measure a peak brightness of up to 1620 nits and still very good 1174 nits at a completely white image (at least a 16:9 video with small black borders), proving Apple’s claims.

Another disadvantage is the constant PWM flicker at around 15 kHz, which we can even detect at maximum HDR brightness. The frequency is very high, so it will not be an issue for most users, but the new MacBook Pro 16’s panel is unsuitable for sensitive people. The constant flashing makes it almost impossible to establish response times.

The notch and the adjacent areas, which are utilized for menu items, sit above the standard 16:10 aspect ratio display and do not obstruct any of the screen. The notch appears unattractive, although there may still be some practical difficulties.