Apple has finally opened pre-orders for its most powerful Mac Studio configuration, featuring the M5 Ultra chip and up to 512GB of RAM. Announced earlier in 2026, this high-end desktop is designed for professionals who need serious computing power. However, getting the maximum memory and storage comes at a price that puts this machine far beyond the reach of most everyday users.
The Mac Studio M5 Ultra 512GB RAM configuration starts with Apple’s premium hardware and adds expensive upgrades. With the right components selected, the total price can reach $29,799.
Mac Studio M5 Ultra 512GB RAM: What’s New?
Apple introduced the M5 Ultra and M5 Max Mac Studio models in August 2026. At the time, the company mentioned that a 512GB RAM option would arrive later, but customers could not order it immediately.
That has now changed. Buyers can pre-order the new configuration, with the first orders expected to arrive on December 3, 2026.
The standard M5 Ultra model comes with 96GB of RAM, a 30-core CPU, a 64-core GPU, and 1TB of storage. Customers who need more performance can choose a version with a 36-core CPU and an 80-core GPU for an additional $1,300.
Mac Studio M5 Ultra Price and Specifications
Here is a quick look at the main configurations and upgrade costs mentioned in the announcement.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Base price | $5,499 |
| Base memory | 96GB RAM |
| Maximum memory | 512GB RAM |
| Base processor | 30-core CPU |
| Upgraded processor | 36-core CPU |
| Graphics | Up to 80-core GPU |
| Base storage | 1TB SSD |
| Maximum storage | 16TB SSD |
| Maximum configured price | $29,799 |
| First delivery date | December 3, 2026 |
The 512GB memory option is available only with the upgraded 36-core CPU and 80-core GPU model. This means customers cannot select the maximum RAM with the entry-level M5 Ultra configuration.
Why Does the 512GB RAM Upgrade Cost So Much?
Memory is not the only expensive upgrade. Increasing storage from 1TB to 16TB costs an additional $7,500. The high-memory configuration also requires the more powerful processor and graphics option.
The reported $15,500 cost for the 512GB RAM upgrade alone highlights how expensive Apple’s top-tier hardware can become. When customers combine memory, processing power, and storage upgrades, the final bill rises quickly.
This machine is aimed at demanding professional workloads, such as complex 3D projects, advanced video production, and large-scale AI tasks. Most everyday users who browse the web, edit documents, or watch videos will not need this much power.
Is the New Mac Studio Worth the Price?
For professionals who regularly work with huge projects, large datasets, or memory-intensive applications, the Mac Studio M5 Ultra could offer valuable performance. Its compact design also packs substantial computing power into a small desktop.
However, the maximum configuration costs more than many high-end workstation setups. Buyers should consider their actual workload before paying for 512GB of RAM or 16TB of storage.
Apple’s new configuration gives professionals more options, but the price makes one thing clear: maximum performance comes at a premium. For most people, a lower configuration should be more practical and affordable.
Suggested internal links: Apple Mac Studio M5 review, M5 Ultra chip specifications, Best Macs for video editing, Apple Mac comparison guide.