3DMark for Mac

3DMark, a long‑standing leader in cross‑platform gaming benchmarks, has officially launched a native macOS version as of June 2025.

Previously limited to Windows and mobile, the macOS app now allows Apple Silicon users to evaluate GPU and CPU performance using comprehensive tests—all powered by Apple’s Metal API.



Key Features of 3DMark for Mac

Four native benchmarks: Wild Life Extreme, Solar Bay, Steel Nomad Light, and, for the first time on Mac, the full Steel Nomad test previously exclusive to Windows. All run through Metal with cross-platform comparability.

Explorer Mode: For Steel Nomad and Steel Nomad Light—walk freely through scenes, adjust camera angles, and uncover hidden easter eggs.

Custom modes & settings: Adjust resolution, loop tests, enable HDR, and choose demo options tailored to your testing needs.

Immersive benchmarking: Sound effects, Steam achievements, and game controller support enhance the experience.

Account sync: Upload results to 3DMark.com for comparison across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android.



User Interface

The interface follows the familiar layout of 3DMark on Windows and mobile but feels right at home on macOS. A clean tabs‑based design separates benchmarks, settings, and Explorer Mode.

Benchmarks show progress bars, frame rates, and post‑run scores. Explorer Mode presents intuitive WASD/mouse or controller navigation. Steam integration ensures seamless achievements and updates.

Installation & Setup

From Steam: Search “3DMark” and install the Mac version (macOS 14 Sonoma or later, Apple Silicon only). 8 GB RAM and 2 GB free storage required.

Demo available: Free version includes all four benchmarks in basic mode.

Licensing: A new purchase ($34.99) unlocks Explorer Mode, custom settings, HDR, sound, account saving, and achievements. Existing Windows 3DMark owners receive macOS version for free.

Setup is quick—just meet system requirements and you’re ready to benchmark.

How to Use

Demo run: Start with the demo to assess general GPU capability.

Full benchmark: Run the demo benchmarks and note your Metal‑API scores.

Use Explorer Mode: Gain deeper insight into your GPU’s efficiency and capture custom shots.

Compare & monitor: Upload scores to your 3DMark.com account to track Apple Silicon progression or compare with Windows PCs.

Thermal testing: Use custom loop runs to check for throttling under sustained load.



FAQs

Does it support Intel Macs?
No—only Apple Silicon (M1 onward) on macOS 14 or later.

Are scores comparable across platforms?
Yes—thanks to Metal API consistency, scores align with Windows, mobile, etc.

Can I save and share results?
Full version lets you sync to 3DMark.com and share public leaderboards.

Is Explorer Mode limited without controller?
Not at all—you can control scenes via keyboard/mouse or use a gamepad.

What’s the price and upgrade path?
$34.99 full version on Steam. Owners of Windows 3DMark get macOS free; future licenses include both platforms.

Alternatives

Novabench: fast but not as graphically demanding.

Geekbench: Good for CPU/GPU stress, but lacks detailed 3D scenes.

Pricing

Demo: Free via Steam.

Full license: $34.99 USD one‑time purchase—includes all current and future macOS benchmarks where supported.

System Requirements

• macOS: 14 Sonoma or later
• CPU: Apple Silicon M‑series (M1, M2, M3, M4)
• RAM: 8 GB
• Storage: 2 GB
• Internet: Required for Steam, optional for result upload

PROS

• Native Metal performance: no frame‑rate caps like mobile ports.
• Cross‑platform benchmarks with Windows, iOS, Android.
• Explorer Mode adds value and visual flair.
• Steam integration for achievements and updates.
• Demo version enables risk‑free testing.

CONS

• Apple Silicon only—Intel Macs left out.
• No ray‑tracing or Speed Way test yet.
• Lacks hardware‑level telemetry (temps, clocks) due to macOS API limits.

Conclusion

3DMark for Mac is a significant milestone. It brings a powerful, Metal‑optimized benchmarking suite to Apple Silicon users for graphs, games, and hardware comparisons.

ith full cross‑platform parity, creative Explorer Mode, and Steam support, it’s a must‑have for enthusiasts, system builders, and gamers in the Mac ecosystem. At $34.99, the full license offers excellent value—especially considering cross-platform coverage and future updates. Highly recommended from FileHorse review team.

Also Available: Download 3DMark for Windows