Is the MacBook Pro 2021 Worth Buying in 2024
If you’re in the market for a refurbished MacBook Pro, you might be weighing the pros and cons between the MacBook Pro 2021 and MacBook Pro 2020 models. With Refurbished MacBook Pro 2021 models selling for over $1000, and MacBook Pro 2020 models priced just above $500, the question is: is the newer model worth the extra cost?
Why Refurbished MacBook Pro?
A refurbished MacBook Pro is a great way to own a premium Apple laptop at a reduced price, without sacrificing quality. Unlike buying a used device directly from an individual seller, refurbished MacBooks go through rigorous inspection and repair processes to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s standards. Many certified refurbished MacBook Pros come with warranties and guarantees, offering peace of mind while saving you a significant amount compared to buying new.
MacOS 15 Sequoia Support: Both Models Still Supported
One of the key factors to consider when buying a used or refurbished MacBook is software support. Fortunately, both the MacBook Pro 2021 and MacBook Pro 2020 are compatible with MacOS 15 Sequoia, the latest operating system as of 2024. This means both models will receive the latest updates, security patches, and app compatibility for several more years.
Significant Price Gap and Recommendation
The biggest difference between these two models is the price. The MacBook Pro 2021 is priced at over $1000 for refurbished models, while the MacBook Pro 2020 can be found starting at $500+. While the 2021 model offers a hardware upgrade, the price gap is hard to ignore. Our recommendation: For most users, the MacBook Pro 2020 offers better value and performance for the price.
Hardware Comparison: 2021 vs. 2020
| Specification | MacBook Pro 2021 | MacBook Pro 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple M1 Pro/M1 Max | Apple M1 |
| Display | 14" or 16" Liquid Retina XDR Display | 13.3" Retina Display |
| Memory & Storage | 16GB to 64GB RAM, 512GB to 8TB SSD | 8GB to 16GB RAM, 256GB to 2TB SSD |
| Keyboard | Magic Keyboard | Magic Keyboard |
| Battery | Up to 21 hours (16") | Up to 17 hours |
| USB Ports | 3 Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC slot | 2 Thunderbolt 3 |
| Size & Weight | 3.5 - 4.7 lbs (depending on size) | 3.0 lbs |
Chipset: M1 Pro/M1 Max vs. M1
The MacBook Pro 2021 models come with the Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max chips, offering superior performance for intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. The M1 Pro and M1 Max provide more CPU and GPU cores, better memory bandwidth, and more unified memory than the M1 chip found in the 2020 model. However, for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and office work, the M1 chip still performs exceptionally well.
Display: Liquid Retina XDR vs. Retina Display
The 2021 model boasts a Liquid Retina XDR display, which is a major upgrade over the Retina Display found on the 2020 model. The Liquid Retina XDR display offers higher brightness, better contrast, and more vibrant colors, making it ideal for creative professionals who require top-notch visual performance. However, for most users, the Retina Display on the 2020 model still offers excellent quality for everyday use.
Memory & Storage: More Options in 2021
The MacBook Pro 2021 offers much more flexibility in terms of memory and storage, with options ranging from 16GB to 64GB of RAM and 512GB to 8TB of SSD storage. In contrast, the 2020 model offers up to 16GB of RAM and 2TB of storage. For users working with extremely large files or running memory-intensive applications, the 2021 model provides more headroom. However, for most users, the 2020 model's configurations are more than sufficient.
Keyboard: Magic Keyboard on Both
Both models feature the Magic Keyboard, which offers a comfortable and reliable typing experience. This keyboard resolves the reliability issues of the previous butterfly mechanism, making both the 2021 and 2020 models equally reliable in this regard.
Battery Life: Slight Advantage for the 2021 Model
The 2021 model offers slightly better battery life, with the 14-inch model providing up to 17 hours of web browsing and the 16-inch model offering up to 21 hours. The 2020 model, by comparison, delivers up to 17 hours of battery life. The difference may be important if you're frequently working on the go, but for many users, the 2020 model's battery life is more than adequate.
Ports: More Versatility on the 2021 Model
The MacBook Pro 2021 introduces additional ports, including an HDMI port, an SDXC card slot, and Thunderbolt 4 ports, making it more versatile for users who need extra connectivity. The 2020 model has 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, which may require additional adapters for certain tasks.
Size & Weight: Slightly Lighter 2020 Model
The MacBook Pro 2020 is slightly lighter, weighing in at around 3.0 lbs, while the 14-inch MacBook Pro 2021 weighs 3.5 lbs and the 16-inch model weighs 4.7 lbs. This difference may be important for users who prioritize portability.
Used vs. Certified Used/Refurbished
When buying a Used MacBook Pro, it’s important to understand the difference between standard used devices and Certified Used or Refurbished models. A standard used MacBook Pro may be sold as-is, without any guarantees regarding its condition or functionality. On the other hand, Certified Used or Refurbished models undergo professional inspections, repairs, and cleaning, ensuring they meet manufacturer standards.
Opting for a Certified Used or Refurbished MacBook Pro provides peace of mind, as these devices typically come with warranties and guarantees, minimizing the risk of potential issues.
Final Verdict
While the MacBook Pro 2021 offers clear hardware advantages with its M1 Pro/M1 Max chip, superior display, and additional ports, the price gap between the 2021 and MacBook Pro 2020 models is hard to justify for most users. At $1000+, the 2021 model is better suited for professionals who require high-end performance. For most buyers, however, the MacBook Pro 2020 at $500+ provides excellent performance and value, making it the smarter choice in 2024.
How UpTrade Helps You Find the Best Deal
At UpTrade, we simplify the process of finding the best deal on used or refurbished devices. Our platform allows you to compare prices from certified and trustworthy sellers like Apple, Amazon, and BestBuy, ensuring you get the best deal for your budget. With a focus on Certified Used and Refurbished products, UpTrade makes it easy to find high-quality tech at a fraction of the price, helping you make the most informed decision when purchasing a MacBook Pro 2021 or MacBook Pro 2020.
