900 ‘MacBook Pro’ stories
August 2010 – October 2021
has been the product name for Apple’s high-end laptop since early
2006 when the transition to Intel processors began. It has a storied history with many different models, and has lived through at least distinguishable generations. Here’s everything you need to know about the MacBook Pro at a high level, including a brief history and look at the most recent models.
Table of contents
MacBook Pro history
The aluminum build of the first generation models was significant, while the second generation took that innovation to the next level with a metal unibody. Then, the third generation MacBook Pro line introduced the famed Retina display, while the fourth generation brought the infamous Touch Bar and USB-C ports. The fifth generation models brought back the Magic Keyboard after years of Butterfly Keyboard madness, and the most recent sixth generation models brought the laptops into modern times with Apple Silicon.
Current generation 16-inch MacBook Pro
In November of 2019, Apple released a new high-end 16-inch MacBook Pro which replaced the 15-inch lineup. The model brings the return of the scissor switch mechanism with a ‘Magic Keyboard’, a six-speaker system, up to 8-core processor, and up to 64GB RAM.
In a statement, Apple VP Tom Boger described it as featuring a “larger display, blazing-fast performance, the biggest battery possible, the best notebook keyboard ever, awesome speakers and massive amounts of storage”.
The laptop brought a larger display, great performance, the biggest battery physically possible (literally — it’s the largest battery you can still carry on a plane), and high performance speakers. The keyboard is great, bringing back the inverted T arrow key.
While it’s not an Apple Silicon model (those are rumored to be coming later), Apple improved the thermal performance in the 16-inch model. The new models feature 6- and 8-core CPUs and up to 64GB RAM, and GPUs that offer up to 2.1 times faster graphics performance than the previous standard configuration.
Apple is claiming this is the first notebook in the world to offer an 8 TB option for internal storage. As standard, it now comes with 512GB SSD — double the previous generation. With the release of the 16-inch MacBook Pro, Apple discontinued the older 15-inch model.
16-inch pricing
There are two main base models for the 16-inch MacBook Pro: an i7 model with 512GB of storage and an i9 model with 1TB of storage. You can check Amazon prices below, or configure your own at Apple.
16-inch MacBook Pro i7 (
16-inch MacBook Pro i9 (Check Amazon)
Current-generation 13-inch MacBook Pro
Apple recently refreshed the 13-inch MacBook Pro, and with that refresh came one of the biggest changes to Apple’s lineup of laptops in quite some time: Apple Silicon. For right now, the difference between the 13-inch MacBook Pro and the 16-inch model are pretty major, and it all comes down to how the laptops fare in CPU performance. Both in raw performance and heat/battery consumption, the 13-inch models are better.
13-inch pricing
There are two main models for the 13-inch MacBook Pro: an M1 model with an 8-core CPU and 256GB of storage, and an M1 model with an 8 core CPU and 512GB of storage.
13-inch MacBook Pro 256GB (Check Amazon)
13-inch MacBook Pro 512GB (Check Amazon)
Differences between 13-inch and 16-inch models
In terms of size, the 16-inch is noticeably larger and heavier. In addition to the overall increase in footprint to accommodate the larger display, the 16-inch model is also around 1-pound heavier. You will notice slightly smaller bezels on the 16-inch model compared to the 13-inch. Here are all of the details:
Both the 13-inch and 16-inch are available in silver and space gray.
As mentioned, the biggest difference between the two MacBook Pro models sold by Apple is the CPU. Apple Silicon is a whole new ballgame, and until Apple launches a 16-inch model with the M1 or M2 chip, you might want to hold off on buying the larger one.
There’s also the display: the 16-inch MacBook Pro features a resolution of 3072×1920, which equates to a density of 226 pixels-per-inch (PPI). The 13-inch MacBook Pro features a resolution of 2560×1600, which equates to a density of 227 pixels-per-inch (PPI). Both displays feature things like Apple’s True Tone display technology for adaptable color temperature, a P3 color gamut, and more.
Perhaps a more apt comparison — apples to apples, no pun intended — would be the 13-inch MacBook Pro compared to the 13-inch MacBook Air. Both sport the M1 chip, and you can read about the differences here.
Apple today confirmed its upcoming special event on Monday, October 18, at which the company is expected to introduce its next-generation Apple Silicon chip with newly redesigned MacBook Pro models. However, contrary to what some people may think, the new M1X MacBook Pro is unlikely to replace the current entry-level models with the M1 chip.
Apple just confirmed that it will hold a special event on October 18, and we expect new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros to be the stars of the show. While multiple reports over recent months had suggested that the new MacBook Pros will feature mini-LED display technology, a new rumor today says they will also feature a 120Hz refresh rate for the first time.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro is showing as unavailable for pickup at many Apple stores, with online orders showing delayed shipping too.
That is naturally creating speculating about an imminent launch of the upcoming M1X model – which turned out to be correct!
USB-C/Thunderbolt display options have really grown over the last couple of years. While Apple is making its own monitor again with the Pro Display XDR, it’s not the best fit for the majority of Mac users with a starting price of $5,000 (without a stand). Let’s take a look at some of the best USB-C/Thunderbolt displays available in the $400-$1,500 range.
Rumors have long suggested that Apple is working on a new MacBook Pro refresh with Apple Silicon on the inside, a new design, and much more. As rumors gain steam about a release within the coming weeks, many would-be MacBook Pro buyers are debating whether to buy now or wait. Here’s what we recommend.
Now that the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 have officially been announced, attention has shifted to Apple’s highly-anticipated MacBook Pro refresh that has been rumored for the better part of 2021. Bloomberg reports today that the first ‘M1X’ Macs are still on track for this year.
Apple this week released the seventh beta of macOS Monterey, which was announced at WWDC 2021 and is expected to become available later this year along with the rumored M1X Macs. Interestingly, internal system code has revealed support for two new Retina display resolutions, which could potentially be from the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Apple’s September event included the unveiling of iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, the redesigned iPad mini 6, and more. However, there were a number of things absent. Let’s look at everything Apple didn’t announce at its iPhone 13 event.
Ben Lovejoy
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Sep. 16th 2021 4:22 am PT
An announcement by Samsung may be revealing future MacBook Pro displays – but not for the models we’re expecting to see later this year …
We’re finally headed into the fall Apple product releases, so perhaps you’re thinking about upgrading your suite of personal devices — or maybe you want to help a loved one do so. Whatever it is you’re planning to buy — a new iPhone, iPad, or other Apple device — it’s not an uncommon problem to not know what to do with the old devices you have laying around. Why not get some cash for them? The best trade deals for September 2021 below…
While Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 13 and Apple Watch Series 7 on Tuesday, it has additional announcements in store for later this fall. Perhaps most notably, this includes the long-awaited 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros powered by the M1X processor. A new report today indicates those machines could be available in “the next several weeks.”
Report: MacBook Pro mini-LED suppliers say shipments are on schedule
– Sep. 7th 2021 9:00 am PT
While all eyes are focused on the iPhone 13 and the Apple Event rumored for this month, DigiTimes Asia reports that LED suppliers for the upcoming MacBook Pro are saying shipments are on schedule.
Looking to add more screen real estate to your Mac that’s easy to use at home, work, or on the go? Whether you want to make use of your iPad or would rather pick up a dedicated portable monitor, read along for a look at the best portable displays for MacBooks.
A pair of new reports from Digitimes this morning claims to offer new details on production timelines for two highly anticipated new products from Apple this fall. According to the reports, new M1X-powered MacBook Pros are expected to launch later in the fall, while the Apple Watch Series 7 is slated for mass production at the end of September.
Apple’s M1 MacBooks bring some major performance gains and at first glance, the new MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro seem quite similar. They have the same CPU/GPU, same ports, same FaceTime camera, and more. However, let’s take a closer look at the M1 MacBook Air vs Pro to see what differentiates the two to help you decide which to buy.
A leaker with a good track record says that the upcoming Apple Silicon 14-inch MacBook Pro CPU will be identical to that of the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
This would represent a significant shift from Intel Macs, where Apple had reserved the fastest processors for the larger machines …
Concept replaces MacBook Pro’s Touch Bar with Apple Pencil dock
– Aug. 14th 2021 6:46 am PT
Rumors suggest that Apple will ditch the MacBook Pro’s Touch Bar in its new entry. While we still have to wait and see whether this will happen, a new concept imagines the Touch Bar replaced as an Apple Pencil case inside the computer.
If you’re waiting impatiently for the upcoming M1X-powered MacBook Pro machines, a new supply-chain report says that 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro production is now underway.
There’s still no certainty as to when the new machines will go on sale, however …
New Macs spotted in Eurasian regulatory filings, likely the redesigned M1X MacBook Pros
– Aug. 2nd 2021 9:16 am PT
As rumors about the upcoming M1X MacBook Pro continue to gain steam, new MacBook models running macOS 12 Monterey have appeared in Eurasian Economic Commission filings. As spotted by French site Consomac, Apple has filed two new Macs numbered A2442 and A2485 with the regulators.
Stephen Hall
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Aug. 2nd 2021 12:10 am PT
The MacBook Pro is one of Apple’s most popular laptops, and for good reason. With the exception of some keyboard stumbles and minor issues throughout the years, it’s certainly one of the best computers for professionals of all kinds. But as is the case with any other device we own, there comes a time to sell it or trade it in for an upgrade. In this article, we’re going to help you understand which MacBook Pro you have and check on its trade in value…
There have been multiple reports of M1 MacBook screen cracks occurring during normal usage of the machines, with both the M1 MacBook Air and M1 MacBook Pro affected.
In some cases, Apple has repaired or replaced the machines free of charge, while most other users have been charged …
Gurman: MacBook Pro with miniLED display coming between September-November
– Jul. 18th 2021 6:23 am PT
In today’s Power On newsletter, Bloomberg Mark Gurman discusses the availability of the new MacBook Pro with miniLED display, expected to be announced from September to November. Head below for the full details.
A new round of rumors claims to offer more details about what to expect from Apple’s forthcoming Apple Silicon MacBook Pro overhaul. According to YouTuber Luke Miani, the new MacBook Pros will feature SD card slot with high-speed UHS-II support and an illuminated Touch ID button for the first time, but could be limited to 32GB of RAM.
Poll: What’s the feature you’re looking forward to the most in your next MacBook?
– Jul. 11th 2021 7:51 am PT
Apple’s new line of M1 Macs, but as we approach one year since these first computers were unveiled, what else are you looking forward to the most in your next MacBook? Head below to let us know in a poll…