Introduction
When Apple introduced the 2021 MacBook Pro models, they marked a major leap forward in performance, design, and usability. Equipped with the powerful M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, stunning mini-LED displays, improved battery life, and the return of essential ports, the 2021 lineup was built for professionals and power users. Now in 2025, these machines are available as Certified Used or Refurbished units—offering flagship-level performance at a fraction of the original cost. If you're in the market for a high-performance MacBook that doesn’t break the bank, the 2021 MacBook Pro deserves serious consideration.
Price and Availability in 2025
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished MacBook Pro 2021 models now start at just $850+, a steep drop from their original $1,999+ launch price. This pricing includes both 14-inch and 16-inch models powered by either the M1 Pro or M1 Max chips.
In comparison:
- The MacBook Pro 2020 (M1) starts at $550+, making it an attractive budget option.
- The MacBook Pro 2022 (M2) is available from $780+, slightly cheaper than the 2021 model but with fewer pro-level features.
Although not the cheapest option, the 2021 model offers the best balance between performance, ports, and display quality—making it an excellent value for users who need more than just the basics.
Performance and Longevity
The 2021 MacBook Pro was the first to feature Apple's M1 Pro and M1 Max chips—custom silicon that offered a dramatic leap in performance over the original M1 chip. Even in 2025, these machines are powerhouses capable of handling demanding tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, music production, and software development without breaking a sweat. The M1 Pro delivers up to 10 CPU cores and 16 GPU cores, while the M1 Max pushes that further with up to 32 GPU cores and enhanced memory bandwidth.
These chips aren’t just fast—they’re efficient and built for the long haul. The 2021 MacBook Pros are expected to receive macOS updates for many more years, giving you solid longevity and compatibility with future apps. For professionals or anyone needing serious computing power, this level of performance in a sub-$1,000 laptop is tough to beat.
Display, Ports, and Design
The 2021 MacBook Pro reintroduced some of the most user-requested features. Gone was the Touch Bar, and in its place came a physical function key row. It also brought back the HDMI port, SD card reader, and MagSafe charging—improving connectivity and usability without relying on dongles.
Its Liquid Retina XDR display is another standout. With mini-LED backlighting, ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate, 1,000 nits of sustained brightness, and stunning contrast, it remains one of the best laptop displays even in 2025. Whether you're editing photos or watching movies, the viewing experience is top-tier.
The overall design is also more robust and professional, with a slightly thicker and heavier body than previous models—but for many users, that trade-off is well worth it for the performance and features gained.
Battery Life and macOS Support
Despite its performance power, the 2021 MacBook Pro still offers impressive battery life thanks to Apple’s efficient silicon. You can expect up to 17 hours of web browsing or 21 hours of video playback on the 16-inch model—ideal for professionals on the go or students needing all-day use without a charger.
In terms of software, the MacBook Pro 2021 supports the latest version of macOS (macOS 26 Tahoe), and it will likely continue receiving updates for at least another 4–5 years. Apple’s excellent track record with long-term software support means this MacBook will remain secure, compatible, and relevant well into the future.
Comparison: MacBook Pro 2021 vs MacBook Pro 2020 (M1)
If you're deciding between the MacBook Pro 2021 and the MacBook Pro 2020 (M1), it's important to understand how much more you get—and whether you actually need it.
Specs Comparison: MacBook Pro 2021 vs MacBook Pro 2020 (M1)
| Feature |
MacBook Pro 2020 (M1) |
MacBook Pro 2021 |
| Release Year |
2020 |
2021 |
| Size |
13" |
14" or 16" |
| Chip |
M1 |
M1 Pro / M1 Max |
| CPU Cores |
8-core |
8-core or 10-core |
| GPU Cores |
7-core or 8-core |
14-core to 32-core |
| RAM |
8GB or 16GB |
16GB to 64GB |
| Display |
13.3" Retina Display |
14.2" / 16.2" Liquid Retina XDR, 120Hz ProMotion |
| Ports |
2x Thunderbolt 3/USB-C, 1x headphone jack |
3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 3 |
| Battery Life |
Up to 17–20 hours |
Up to 17–21 hours |
| Starting Price (2025) |
$550+ |
$850+ |
Performance
The MacBook Pro 2020 features Apple’s original M1 chip, which is excellent for basic productivity, light creative work, and general multitasking. However, the 2021 model steps things up significantly with the M1 Pro or M1 Max chip, offering more CPU and GPU cores, faster memory, and support for multiple high-resolution displays (See the table below for more details). For intensive tasks like video editing, software compiling, or music production, the 2021 model is in a completely different class.
Chipset Comparison: Apple M1 vs M1 Pro vs M1 Max
| Feature |
Apple M1 |
Apple M1 Pro |
Apple M1 Max |
| Release Year |
2020 |
2021 |
2021 |
| CPU Cores |
8-core (4 perf + 4 eff) |
8-core or 10-core (6/8 perf + 2 eff) |
10-core (8 perf + 2 eff) |
| GPU Cores |
7-core or 8-core |
14-core or 16-core |
24-core or 32-core |
| Unified Memory |
8GB or 16GB |
16GB to 32GB |
32GB to 64GB |
| Memory Bandwidth |
68.25 GB/s |
200 GB/s |
400 GB/s |
| External Display Support |
1 display |
2 displays (6K @ 60Hz) |
4 displays (3x 6K + 1x 4K) |
| Media Engine |
Basic |
ProRes Encode/Decode support |
2x ProRes Encode/Decode |
| Power Efficiency |
Excellent |
Very Good |
Good (High Performance) |
Size and Design
The MacBook Pro 2020 (M1) retains Apple’s older, more compact 13-inch chassis—featuring thicker bezels, a Touch Bar, and a more minimal port selection. Its design is familiar and lightweight, making it ideal for portability, but it lacks modern visual and functional upgrades. In contrast, the MacBook Pro 2021 received a full redesign. It comes in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes with slimmer bezels, a notch for the improved 1080p webcam, and a return to physical function keys in place of the Touch Bar. The 2021 model also introduces a sturdier, more angular chassis and improved thermal design.
The difference in screen size is also notable. The 14-inch model offers significantly more screen real estate than the 13-inch version without drastically increasing the overall footprint, thanks to the reduced bezel design. Meanwhile, the 16-inch model is geared toward those who need maximum display space and don’t mind the larger body. Overall, the 2021 models feel more modern, professional, and future-forward, while the 2020 model is more traditional and compact. If you prioritize aesthetics, display, and keyboard experience, the 2021 MacBook Pro is the clear winner.
Display Quality
The 2020 MacBook Pro has a standard Retina display, which is still sharp and color-accurate, but it doesn't come close to the 2021’s Liquid Retina XDR screen. The 2021 display offers higher brightness, better contrast, and a smoother 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate—ideal for creative professionals and users who value top-tier visuals (See the table below for more details).
Display Comparison: Retina Display vs Liquid Retina XDR Display
| Feature |
Retina Display |
Liquid Retina XDR Display |
| Model |
MacBook Pro 2020 |
MacBook Pro 2021 |
| First Introduced |
2012 |
2021 |
| Display Type |
IPS LCD |
Mini-LED |
| Resolution |
Up to 2560×1600 (13") / 3072×1920 (16") |
3024×1964 (14") / 3456×2234 (16") |
| Brightness (Typical) |
400–500 nits |
1000 nits sustained, 1600 nits peak (HDR) |
| Contrast Ratio |
~1,000:1 |
1,000,000:1 |
| Color Gamut |
P3 Wide Color |
P3 Wide Color |
| True Tone |
Yes |
Yes |
| HDR Support |
No |
Yes (HDR10, Dolby Vision) |
| Backlight Technology |
Standard LED Backlight |
Mini-LED with 10,000+ dimming zones |
| Key Benefit |
Sharp and color-accurate |
Extreme dynamic range, deep blacks, high brightness |
Ports and Connectivity
One of the biggest limitations of the 2020 M1 MacBook Pro is port selection: just two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports and a headphone jack. The 2021 model restores MagSafe charging, adds HDMI, an SD card slot, and up to three Thunderbolt 4 ports, greatly improving versatility without the need for dongles.
Battery Life
While both models offer impressive battery life, the 2020 M1 MacBook Pro edges out slightly in efficiency thanks to its less power-hungry hardware. That said, the 2021 model still delivers excellent battery performance considering its much higher processing power.
Price in 2025
As of 2025, Certified Used / Refurbished MacBook Pro 2020 (M1) starts at around $550+, whereas the more powerful 2021 model starts at $850+. For users who need a computer for writing, web browsing, or office tasks, the 2020 version is likely sufficient. But for anyone with performance-heavy needs—or who wants a more future-proof machine—the 2021 model is well worth the extra investment.
Comparison: MacBook Pro 2021 vs MacBook Pro 2022 (M2)
The 2021 MacBook Pro introduced Apple’s powerful M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, along with major design changes that made it ideal for professionals. A year later, Apple launched the 2022 MacBook Pro 13" with the M2 chip, ing more general users. While both are solid choices in 2025, they serve different audiences.
Specs Comparison: MacBook Pro 2021 vs MacBook Pro 2022 (M2)
| Feature |
MacBook Pro 2021 |
MacBook Pro 2022 |
| Release Year |
2021 |
2022 |
| Size |
14" or 16" |
13" |
| Processor |
M1 Pro / M1 Max |
M2 |
| RAM |
16GB to 64GB |
8GB to 24GB |
| Storage Options |
512GB to 8TB |
256GB to 2TB |
| Display |
14" or 16" Liquid Retina XDR |
13.3" Retina Display |
| Refresh Rate |
120Hz ProMotion |
60Hz |
| Peak Brightness |
1,600 nits (HDR) |
500 nits |
| Ports |
3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, MagSafe, SDXC, headphone jack |
2x Thunderbolt/USB 4, headphone jack |
| Battery Life |
Up to 17–21 hours |
Up to 20 hours |
| Build Quality |
New chassis, thinner bezels |
Older design |
| Price in 2025 |
$850+ |
$780+ |
Performance and Chipset
MacBook Pro 2021 offers M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, featuring more CPU and GPU cores, higher memory bandwidth, and support for up to 64GB of RAM. These machines are built for professionals handling intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development.
MacBook Pro 2022 uses the M2 chip, which improves over the original M1 with more GPU cores and better efficiency, but it’s still not in the same league as the M1 Pro or Max. Best suited for general productivity, light creative work, and students.
Chipset Comparison: Apple M1 Pro vs M1 Max vs M2
| Feature |
M1 Pro |
M1 Max |
M2 |
| Release Year |
2021 |
2021 |
2022 |
| CPU Cores |
8-core or 10-core CPU |
10-core CPU |
8-core CPU |
| GPU Cores |
14-core or 16-core GPU |
24-core or 32-core GPU |
8-core or 10-core GPU |
| Neural Engine |
16-core |
16-core |
16-core |
| Unified Memory |
16GB or 32GB (up to 64GB) |
32GB or 64GB (up to 96GB) |
8GB or 16GB (up to 24GB) |
| Memory Bandwidth |
200 GB/s |
400 GB/s |
100 GB/s |
| Transistors |
~33.7 billion |
~57 billion |
~20 billion |
| ProRes Acceleration |
Yes |
Enhanced (2x Video Engines) |
No |
| Target Audience |
Professionals & Creators |
High-End Content Creators |
Everyday Users & Students |
Size, Design, and Display
MacBook Pro 2021 comes in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes with a new design, slimmer bezels, and the advanced Liquid Retina XDR display. It also reintroduces ports like HDMI, MagSafe, and an SD card slot.
MacBook Pro 2022 retains the classic MacBook Pro 13" design with thicker bezels and the standard Retina display. It has only two Thunderbolt ports and no MagSafe or HDMI.
Display Comparison: Retina Display vs Liquid Retina XDR Display
| Feature |
Retina Display |
Liquid Retina XDR Display |
| Model |
MacBook Pro 2022 |
MacBook Pro 2021 |
| First Introduced |
2012 |
2021 |
| Display Type |
IPS LCD |
Mini-LED |
| Resolution |
Up to 2560×1600 (13") / 3072×1920 (16") |
3024×1964 (14") / 3456×2234 (16") |
| Brightness (Typical) |
400–500 nits |
1000 nits sustained, 1600 nits peak (HDR) |
| Contrast Ratio |
~1,000:1 |
1,000,000:1 |
| Color Gamut |
P3 Wide Color |
P3 Wide Color |
| True Tone |
Yes |
Yes |
| HDR Support |
No |
Yes (HDR10, Dolby Vision) |
| Backlight Technology |
Standard LED Backlight |
Mini-LED with 10,000+ dimming zones |
| Key Benefit |
Sharp and color-accurate |
Extreme dynamic range, deep blacks, high brightness |
Ports and Connectivity
MacBook Pro 2021 comes with more ports: HDMI, MagSafe 3, 3x Thunderbolt 4, SDXC card slot, and headphone jack.
The 2022 Model offers just 2x Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports and a headphone jack. Charging is done via USB-C.
Battery Life
Both machines offer excellent battery life, but the 2022 model may have a slight edge in efficiency for light tasks due to the M2 chip. However, for demanding workloads, the 2021 MacBook Pro performs better without draining as fast.
Price in 2025
MacBook Pro 2021 (Certified Used/Refurbished) starts at $850+, and MacBook Pro 2022 (Certified Used/Refurbished) starts at $780+. Although the 2021 model is one year older, it features a more advanced chipset and display. Therefore, it’s fair for the MacBook Pro 2021 to have a higher price.
Conclusion: MacBook Pro 2021 Is Still Worth It in 2025
If you’re shopping for a capable, future-proof MacBook in 2025, the Certified Used or Refurbished MacBook Pro 2021 remains a top-tier option. Starting at $850+, it blends pro-level performance, incredible display quality, and practical design—making it ideal for creative professionals, developers, and power users.
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ M1 Pro and M1 Max Chips still deliver excellent performance for heavy workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking.
- ✅ Liquid Retina XDR Display is brighter and more color-accurate than most laptops—even in 2025.
- ✅ macOS Support through at least 2028, ensuring longevity and security for years.
- ✅ More Ports than newer models, including MagSafe, HDMI, and SD card reader—no dongles required.
- ✅ Better value than M2 models if performance and display are your priorities.
Alternatives with Lower Prices
If you only need it for general use, consider a more affordable alternative, such as the M1 MacBook Pro 2020 (starting at $550+) or the M2 MacBook Pro 2022 (starting at $780+).
FAQ: Buying a MacBook Pro 2021 in 2025
1. Is the MacBook Pro 2021 still good in 2025?
Yes. With M1 Pro and M1 Max chip options, the MacBook Pro 2021 is still among the most powerful laptops Apple has made. It handles professional tasks with ease and will continue receiving macOS updates for years.
2. How much does a Certified Used or Refurbished MacBook Pro 2021 cost in 2025?
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, prices start at around $850+, depending on the chip, RAM, and storage configuration.
3. What’s the difference between M1 Pro and M1 Max?
The M1 Max offers more GPU cores (up to 32), higher memory bandwidth, and better video encoding capabilities compared to the M1 Pro. It’s better suited for graphics-heavy work like 3D rendering or video editing.
4. Is the 2021 MacBook Pro better than the 2022 M2 model?
For most power users—yes. The 2021 MacBook Pro with M1 Pro or M1 Max offers far superior performance, a better display, and more ports. The 2022 M2 model is more affordable and compact, but less capable.
5. Does the 2021 MacBook Pro support macOS updates?
Absolutely. The MacBook Pro 2021 supports the latest macOS 26 Tahoe and is expected to receive updates through at least 2028, making it a safe long-term investment.
6. Is the Liquid Retina XDR display worth it?
Yes. It offers mini-LED backlighting, 1000 nits sustained brightness (1600 peak), and excellent color accuracy—making it ideal for photo, video, and design work.
7. How long will the 2021 MacBook Pro last?
With proper care, it can last 5–7 years or more. Its build quality, powerful internals, and long software support make it highly durable and future-proof.
8. Which size is better: 14-inch or 16-inch?
That depends on your needs. The 14-inch is more portable, while the 16-inch has better battery life and slightly more thermal headroom for demanding tasks.
9. Does the 2021 MacBook Pro have MagSafe charging?
Yes. Apple reintroduced the MagSafe charging port in this model, which allows for fast and secure magnetic charging without occupying a Thunderbolt port.
10. What are some good alternatives?
If you’re on a tighter budget, the MacBook Pro 2020 (M1) at $550+ is a good entry-level option. If you want something newer but don’t need the power of M1 Pro/Max, the MacBook Pro 2022 (M2) at $780+ offers a modern experience at a lower price.
