The MacBook Pro 2019 was released with a starting price of $1,299, positioning it as a powerful machine for its time. However, technology moves fast, and many buyers are now looking for budget-friendly, certified refurbished models from previous years. Based on UpTrade’s price tracking data, a Certified Refurbished MacBook Pro 2019 can be found for $400+ in 2024, which represents a significant discount from its original price.
But is it worth buying? Let’s explore the details and see if the MacBook Pro 2019 still holds up in today's market.
Price: A Steep Discount at $400+
The MacBook Pro 2019 offers a steep price discount, currently available for $400+ for a Certified Refurbished model. This is a substantial savings when compared to its original release price of $1,299. On paper, this makes the MacBook Pro 2019 seem like a great deal, especially for those on a budget. But price isn’t the only factor to consider when buying a refurbished laptop.
The Major Concern: Keyboard Issues
One of the biggest drawbacks of the MacBook Pro 2019 is the butterfly keyboard. This keyboard design was notorious for being unreliable and prone to issues such as sticky or unresponsive keys due to dust and debris. While Apple introduced a keyboard replacement program to address this, it’s a risk that could lead to potential frustration down the road, even with a Certified Refurbished model.
The MacBook Pro 2020, released after the 2019 model, replaced the faulty butterfly keyboard with the much more reliable Magic Keyboard, resolving many of the issues found in earlier models.
Why We Recommend the MacBook Pro 2020 Instead
While the MacBook Pro 2019 may come at a lower price, we recommend investing a bit more and opting for the MacBook Pro 2020, which is available for $500+. Here’s why:
| Feature |
MacBook Pro 2019 |
MacBook Pro 2020 |
| Chipset |
Intel Core i5/i7 8th Gen |
Intel Core i5/i7 10th Gen / Apple M1 |
| Display |
13.3" Retina Display with True Tone |
13.3" Retina Display with True Tone |
| Keyboard |
Butterfly Keyboard (Prone to issues) |
Magic Keyboard (Reliable) |
| Battery Life |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 17 hours |
| Memory & Storage |
8GB to 16GB RAM, 256GB to 2TB SSD |
8GB to 16GB RAM, 256GB to 2TB SSD |
| Charging & USB Ports |
2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports |
2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports |
| Price |
$400+ (refurbished) |
$500+ (refurbished) |
Detailed Comparison of Components
Chipset: Improved Performance in 2020
The MacBook Pro 2019 comes with the Intel Core i5/i7 8th Gen chipset, which still performs well for everyday tasks but falls behind the Intel Core i5/i7 10th Gen and Apple M1 options available in the MacBook Pro 2020. The M1 chip, in particular, provides a significant boost in power, efficiency, and battery life, making the 2020 model a better long-term investment.
Display: Equal Quality
Both the MacBook Pro 2019 and 2020 feature a 13.3-inch Retina Display with True Tone. The color accuracy and sharpness are excellent on both, making them suitable for creative professionals and media consumption. In terms of display, there's no major difference between the two models.
Keyboard: Reliability Matters
The butterfly keyboard on the MacBook Pro 2019 is infamous for being prone to issues. Despite Apple’s repair program, many users still experience problems over time. In contrast, the MacBook Pro 2020 introduced the Magic Keyboard, which is much more reliable and comfortable to use. The improved typing experience on the 2020 model alone makes it a better choice for most buyers.
Battery Life: Longer Life in 2020
The MacBook Pro 2019 offers up to 10 hours of battery life, while the MacBook Pro 2020 can last up to 17 hours on a single charge. Thanks to the energy-efficient M1 chip in the 2020 model, you can get through a full workday without needing to recharge, which is a significant upgrade.
Memory & Storage: Similar Options
Both the MacBook Pro 2019 and 2020 offer similar configurations in terms of RAM and storage, with options ranging from 8GB to 16GB of RAM and 256GB to 2TB of SSD storage. For most users, either configuration will provide sufficient speed and space for daily tasks.
Charging and USB Ports: Equal Connectivity
Both the 2019 and 2020 MacBook Pro models feature two Thunderbolt 3 ports for charging and connectivity. This is enough for most users, but those who require additional ports may need to use adapters or hubs. There’s no major difference in this category.
Used vs. Certified Used/Refurbished
When purchasing a MacBook Pro, it’s crucial to understand the difference between standard used and Certified Used/Refurbished models. A used MacBook Pro may be sold as-is, without any guarantees about its condition, which can lead to unexpected issues down the line.
On the other hand, Certified Used/Refurbished MacBook Pros go through a professional inspection, repair, and cleaning process, ensuring they meet manufacturer standards. These models often come with warranties, providing extra peace of mind. We recommend always opting for Certified Used/Refurbished products for quality assurance.
Where to Buy
You can find Certified Refurbished MacBook Pros from reputable sellers such as Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store, Amazon Renew, and BestBuy. These platforms offer certified devices that come with warranties, ensuring you're getting a high-quality product. Using UpTrade’s Price Tracker, you can compare deals from these sellers and find the best value.
Alternatively, you can purchase a used MacBook Pro through open platforms like Craigslist, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp. While these platforms may offer lower prices, they come with significant risks. You often have no guarantees about the device’s condition, and many of these transactions are final, meaning you could end up with a laptop that has hidden issues or defects. Buying through open platforms can be risky, so if you choose this route, be sure to thoroughly inspect the device before purchasing.
How UpTrade Can Help
At UpTrade, we make it easy to find the best deals on Certified Refurbished MacBook Pros. Our platform tracks prices across multiple certified sellers to help you get the best offer. Whether you’re considering the 2019 or 2020 MacBook Pro, UpTrade ensures you get a high-quality product at a competitive price, backed by warranties and certified reliability.
Final Verdict
While the MacBook Pro 2019 may seem appealing at $400+, the keyboard issues make it a risky investment. We strongly recommend considering the MacBook Pro 2020 instead, which is available for just $500+. The 2020 model offers a more reliable Magic Keyboard, better battery life, and improved performance, making it a smarter long-term investment.
By shopping and comparing deals of Certified Refurbished MacBook Pros via UpTrade, you can find the best deals with quality assurance from trusted sellers.
