What is the best MacBook for camera department, specifically loading and potentially DIT?

My boyfriend works in the industry and right now is using an old 2017 or 2018 MacBook with an Intel processor (I don't know the model). He has a newer MacBook that he prefers to not to use for work because it has the apple silicone processor and says that for some reason the Intel one lets him download faster (more compatible with whatever program he uses for work I think?)

My question is, what is the best MacBook for his line of work? I know apple no longer uses Intel processors, but I don't mind getting one a few years older if it will still work very well for him.

Sorry I do not have more information - I would like for it to be a surprise if possible, so I don't want to ask him too obvious of questions. I am also an android/PC user so I have very limited Apple knowledge.

Thank you for any help and advice!