Introduction
At first glance, the MacBook Pro 2018 might seem like an incredible deal in 2025. Priced around $300+ for a Certified Used or Refurbished model, it offers a sleek design, Retina display, and quad-core Intel processors. But don’t be fooled by the low price—this model comes with well-documented hardware problems that can cost you more in repairs and frustration. If you're shopping for a reliable MacBook in 2025, there are better options in the same price range, including the MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel), which avoids the 2018 model’s most critical flaws.
Price and Availability
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, the Certified Used / Refurbished MacBook Pro 2018 currently sells for $300 to $400 depending on configuration and condition. While that price tag is appealing for a Retina MacBook Pro with Thunderbolt 3 ports and an aluminum unibody design, the low price reflects the model’s declining reputation.
Many resellers are phasing out this generation due to high return rates and unresolved keyboard problems. Meanwhile, prices for the MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel) have also dropped to around $300+, putting it in the exact same price bracket—but without the same reliability concerns.
The Infamous Butterfly Keyboard Issue
One of the main reasons to avoid the 2018 MacBook Pro is its butterfly keyboard, which has been a long-running design failure for Apple. The 2018 version uses Apple’s third-generation butterfly keyboard, which attempted to improve upon previous versions but still suffers from the same flaws:
- Stuck or unresponsive keys
- Double-typing characters
- Keys registering intermittently or not at all
While Apple did offer a free keyboard replacement program, many refurbished units are now outside the eligibility window. Even with a replaced keyboard, issues can return, and repairs are costly if no warranty remains.
This keyboard issue affected productivity for many users and became one of Apple’s most criticized hardware decisions of the past decade. In contrast, the MacBook Pro 2020 switched back to a scissor-switch Magic Keyboard, solving the problem completely.
macOS Compatibility and Software Support
As of 2025, the MacBook Pro 2018 supports up to macOS 15 Sequoia, which was released in 2024. However, it does not support the latest macOS 26, launching in 2025. That means the 2018 model is now officially excluded from major new features, improvements, and long-term software support.
While macOS 15 Sequoia may continue receiving occasional security patches through 2025, you'll eventually miss out on updated apps, system enhancements, and performance optimizations. Some developers may begin phasing out support for older macOS versions, which can limit access to important productivity, security, and creative tools.
By contrast, the MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel) fully supports macOS 26 and is expected to remain compatible with future versions for at least 2–3 more years, giving it a much longer usable life and stronger value for the same price point.
Better Alternative: MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel)
If you're shopping for a reliable and affordable MacBook in 2025, the MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel) is a far better choice than the 2018 model. It shares a similar design and performance tier but corrects the major issues that made the 2018 version problematic—most notably, the unreliable butterfly keyboard. Even better, it's available at the same price range ($300+) for Certified Used or Refurbished units.
Spec Comparison – MacBook Pro 2018 vs. MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel)
| Feature | MacBook Pro 2018 | MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel) |
|---|
| Keyboard | Butterfly (3rd Gen) | Magic Keyboard (Scissor Mechanism) |
| macOS Support | Up to macOS 15 Sequoia | Supports macOS 26 (2025) |
| CPU Options | 8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 | 10th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 |
| RAM | 8GB / 16GB | 8GB / 16GB / 32GB |
| Storage | 256GB to 2TB SSD | 256GB to 4TB SSD |
| Ports | 2 or 4 Thunderbolt 3 | 2 or 4 Thunderbolt 3 |
| Display | 13.3" Retina Display | 13.3" Retina Display (500 nits) |
| Battery Life | ~10 hours | ~10 hours |
| Starting Price | $300+ | $300+ |
Magic Keyboard vs. Butterfly Keyboard
The 2020 model features Apple’s Magic Keyboard, a scissor-switch design that delivers a far better typing experience—quieter, more reliable, and without the chronic failure issues of the 2018’s butterfly keyboard. This change alone eliminates one of the biggest risks of buying a used MacBook.
Longer Software Support
The 2020 MacBook Pro supports macOS 26 in 2025 and is expected to continue receiving updates for several years. That gives you access to the latest features, security enhancements, and app compatibility—all things the 2018 model is beginning to lose.
Improved Performance and Efficiency
Thanks to newer 10th-gen Intel processors, the 2020 model runs cooler and handles multitasking more efficiently than the 2018 version. It also supports faster memory and has better thermals, which helps extend its usable lifespan.
Same Price, Better Longevity
With prices for Certified Used and Refurbished MacBook Pro 2020 models starting around $300, there’s no reason to settle for the older 2018 version. You get more years of life, fewer hardware headaches, and a better macOS experience for the same investment.
Final Verdict: Skip the MacBook Pro 2018 in 2025
The MacBook Pro 2018 may be available at a tempting price in 2025, but the savings come with real compromises. The butterfly keyboard is prone to failure, and macOS support stops at version 15 Sequoia—leaving you behind on future updates, features, and app compatibility. For the same $300+ price, you can get the Refurbished MacBook Pro 2020, which includes a reliable Magic Keyboard and support for macOS 26 and beyond.
If you're looking for a MacBook that can last a few more years, avoid frustration, and stay secure, the 2018 model simply isn’t worth it. Instead, use UpTrade to compare Certified Used and Refurbished MacBook Pro 2020 deals from trusted sellers—all in one place.
FAQ: MacBook Pro 2018 in 2025
Is the MacBook Pro 2018 still supported by Apple in 2025?
It supports up to macOS 15 Sequoia but does not support macOS 26, which launches in late 2025. This means limited future software compatibility.
Is the MacBook Pro 2018 still good in 2025?
Technically, you can still use it in 2025, but we don’t recommend buying one due to the following reasons: 1) Potential Keyboard Issue; 2) Not supporting the latest macOS; 3) Better alternative (MacBook Pro 2020) for the same price. You may read the blog above for more information.
What is the butterfly keyboard issue?
The butterfly keyboard used in the 2018 MacBook Pro is known for problems like sticky keys, repeated characters, and key failures. Even after Apple’s replacement program, issues may still return.
Can I fix the keyboard on the MacBook Pro 2018?
Only if it’s still eligible under Apple’s now-limited keyboard replacement program. If not, repairs can be costly and may not prevent future issues.
What is the best alternative to the MacBook Pro 2018?
The MacBook Pro 2020 (Intel) is the best option in the same price range. It uses the reliable Magic Keyboard and supports the latest macOS updates.
Does the MacBook Pro 2020 have a butterfly keyboard?
No. The 2020 model uses Apple’s Magic Keyboard, which features a scissor mechanism that’s far more dependable.
Why does macOS jump directly from macOS 15 to macOS 26?
Apple has rebranded its macOS versioning to align with other Apple OS (iOS, iPadOS, etc.). Now, all version numbers will be year-based, making them easy for users to remember. For example, similar to the car company, macOS 26 is launching in late 2025, ahead of 2026.
