Is the MacBook Pro 2022 Worth Buying in 2025
Introduction
When Apple launched the MacBook Pro 2022, it refined the 13-inch lineup by upgrading its internals with the powerful new Apple M2 chip, while keeping the familiar design and beloved Magic Keyboard. Fast-forward to 2025, and this sleek and speedy laptop is now available at a significantly lower price—starting around $700+ for Certified Used or Refurbished models, according to UpTrade’s Price Tracker.
If you’re looking for a portable and capable MacBook with long-term software support, excellent battery life, and modern Apple Silicon performance, the MacBook Pro 2022 offers tremendous value in 2025—especially when compared to both older M1 models and pricier M2 Pro or M3 options. In this blog, we’ll break down what makes the 2022 model stand out, how it compares to alternatives, and why buying Certified Refurbished or Used through UpTrade is a smart decision.
MacBook Pro 2022 at a Glance
The 2022 MacBook Pro is a 13.3-inch laptop that continues Apple’s transition to its in-house chip lineup. On the surface, it may look nearly identical to the 2020 model, but under the hood, it brings a meaningful performance boost thanks to the second-generation Apple M2 chip.
Here’s a quick look at the MacBook Pro 2022 specs:
- Model Year: 2022
- Display: 13.3-inch Retina, 2560x1600 resolution
- Processor: Apple M2 chip (8-core CPU, 10-core GPU)
- Memory: 8GB / 16GB / 24GB Unified Memory options
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD
- Keyboard: Magic Keyboard (scissor-switch, backlit)
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt / USB 4, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Operating System: Ships with macOS Ventura, supports macOS Sequoia (2025)
- Build: Aluminum unibody, 3.0 lbs
- Colors: Silver, Space Gray
In short, this model combines compact design, efficient power, and long battery life—making it ideal for students, professionals, and casual users who don’t need the larger screens or high-end chips from Apple’s Pro/Max models.
Performance and M2 Chip
The standout feature of the MacBook Pro 2022 is the M2 chip. As the successor to Apple’s breakthrough M1, the M2 offers up to 18% faster CPU performance and up to 35% faster GPU performance, depending on the configuration. It also supports more memory bandwidth and offers a maximum of 24GB unified memory, compared to the 16GB cap on the M1.
For everyday tasks like web browsing, video calls, and productivity apps, the M2 handles everything with ease. But it also steps up for more demanding workflows—photo editing, light video rendering, and multitasking with multiple apps open. Unless you’re doing serious 4K video production or complex 3D rendering, most users won’t need the extra horsepower of the M2 Pro or M2 Max chips found in the larger and more expensive models.
The 2022 MacBook Pro remains fan-cooled, which gives it better sustained performance than the fanless MacBook Air M2, making it a solid pick for anyone who values consistent speed under load.
Display and Design
The MacBook Pro 2022 keeps the same compact and portable 13.3-inch Retina display that’s been a hallmark of Apple’s laptops for years. With a 2560x1600 resolution and True Tone technology, the screen is sharp, bright, and color-accurate—perfect for students, creatives, and everyday users.
While it doesn’t offer the newer mini-LED display or ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate found in the higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, the display quality is still excellent for the price point.
In terms of design, this model sticks to Apple’s classic aluminum unibody, weighing just 3.0 pounds. It includes two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports and a headphone jack. While it doesn’t have MagSafe charging or an HDMI port like the newer models, it’s still highly functional for most users, especially with a USB-C hub.
Magic Keyboard
One of the most welcome features in the MacBook Pro 2022 is the inclusion of Apple’s Magic Keyboard—a major upgrade over the controversial butterfly mechanism used in earlier MacBooks. Introduced in 2020, the Magic Keyboard uses a refined scissor-switch design that offers more key travel, better stability, and improved durability. It's quiet, responsive, and far more reliable, making it ideal for long typing sessions, whether you're writing papers, coding, or working remotely. For anyone upgrading from older Intel models, this keyboard alone is a big quality-of-life improvement.
Software Support in 2025
The MacBook Pro 2022 originally shipped with macOS Ventura and is fully compatible with macOS Sequoia (macOS 15). It’s also expected to support macOS Tahoe (macOS 16), which is slated for release in Fall 2025. Apple typically provides full OS support for at least 6 to 7 years after a MacBook's release, so the 2022 model should receive updates through at least 2028, possibly beyond.
This makes the 2022 MacBook Pro a smart long-term investment for users who want to stay current with new features, app compatibility, and system security.
Unlike older Intel-based models, the M2-powered MacBook Pro is part of Apple’s future-facing Silicon lineup. With each software update, users benefit from better performance optimization, longer battery life, and a seamless ecosystem experience—ensuring this model stays relevant and reliable for years to come.
Alternatives: MacBook Pro 2022 vs 2020, 2021, 2023
The 2022 MacBook Pro is a strong mid-point in Apple’s lineup—it balances power, portability, and price better than most other models in 2025. But depending on your budget and performance needs, you may be considering other options like the M1 MacBook Pro (2020), the M1 Pro/Max models from 2021, or even the newer M2 Pro or M3 models from 2023.
Here’s how they compare:
| Model | Chipset | Display Size | Starting Price (2025) | Memory Options | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MacBook Pro 2020 | M1 | 13.3" Retina | ~$500+ | 8GB / 16GB | Entry-level Apple Silicon, great value, older keyboard design |
| MacBook Pro 2021 | M1 Pro / M1 Max | 14" or 16" Liquid Retina XDR | ~$800+ | 16GB / 32GB / 64GB | ProMotion, more ports, better display, heavier |
| MacBook Pro 2022 | M2 | 13.3" Retina | ~$700+ | 8GB / 16GB / 24GB | Magic Keyboard, M2 chip, better sustained performance |
| MacBook Pro 2023 | M2 Pro / M2 Max / M3 | 14" or 16" Liquid Retina XDR | ~$1000+ | 16GB+ | Cutting-edge performance, high cost, mostly for power users |
MacBook Pro 2020 (M1): If you’re tight on budget, this model still holds up well for everyday tasks. It’s not as futureproof and maxes out at 16GB RAM, but at $500+, it's the most affordable Apple Silicon laptop.
MacBook Pro 2021 (M1 Pro / Max): Starting at $800+, these models offer serious power, stunning displays, and more ports—but they’re bulkier and overkill for most non-professional users. Only worth considering if you do heavy video editing or software development.
MacBook Pro 2023 (M2 Pro / Max / M3): These are high-end machines with top-tier performance, but also come with high prices starting at $1000+. Unless you need the extra cores or GPU for creative workloads, the cost jump isn’t justified.
Bottom line: The 2022 MacBook Pro with M2 offers the best blend of performance and affordability for the average user. It's faster than the M1 model, more affordable than the Pro/Max versions, and still gets years of software support.
Conclusion
In 2025, the MacBook Pro 2022 stands out as one of the smartest MacBook purchases you can make. It delivers impressive performance thanks to the M2 chip, offers excellent battery life, includes the much-improved Magic Keyboard, and retains a sleek, portable design. Best of all, it now starts at just $700+ for Certified Used or Refurbished units—a great value considering its power and longevity.
Alternatives:
MacBook Pro 2023 ($1000+): If you're a creative professional needing the extra horsepower of an M2 Pro or M3 chip
MacBook Pro 2020 ($500+): If you’re a bargain hunter willing to settle for the previous M1 model
Otherwise, the 2022 MacBook Pro hits the sweet spot. It’s the ideal choice for students, remote workers, and anyone who wants a future-proof laptop that doesn’t break the bank.
Check the latest Certified Used and Refurbished MacBook Pro 2022 deals on UpTrade.
FAQs: Buying the MacBook Pro 2022 in 2025
How much does the MacBook Pro 2022 cost in 2025?
Certified Used or Refurbished MacBook Pro 2022 models start around $700+, depending on the condition and specs.
Is the MacBook Pro 2022 still supported by macOS in 2025?
Yes. It runs macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) and is expected to fully support macOS Tahoe (macOS 16) launching in Fall 2025. Apple will likely continue updates through at least 2028.
What’s the difference between M2 and M1?
The M2 chip offers up to 18% faster CPU performance, better GPU options, and more memory bandwidth. It also supports up to 24GB unified memory, compared to 16GB on the M1.
Is the 2022 model better than the 2020 MacBook Pro?
Yes. It uses the same design and screen, but adds the faster M2 chip and supports more memory. It's worth the extra cost for users looking for more longevity and performance.
Should I buy the 2022 MacBook Pro or spend more for the 2023 models?
Only go for the 2023 MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, M3, etc.) if you’re a creative professional who needs top-tier performance. Otherwise, the 2022 model offers much better value.
What is the Magic Keyboard, and why does it matter?
The Magic Keyboard replaced Apple’s older butterfly keyboard design. It’s more comfortable, reliable, and long-lasting—making typing a much better experience.
Is it safe to buy a refurbished MacBook?
Yes—if you buy from trusted certified resellers. UpTrade lets you compare real-time prices from sellers like Amazon Renewed, Apple Refurbished Store, and BestBuy Certified, so you can shop risk-free.
