Shopping for a renewed MacBook Pro means weighing a newer Apple silicon model against older Intel machines that may still suit a narrower budget or software need. My leading pick is the 14-inch 2021 M1 Pro for a strong balance of portability, creative capability, and modern connections. The 16-inch 2021 M1 Pro is the larger-screen choice for demanding work, while the 2020 13-inch Intel model offers 16GB of memory and a practical everyday configuration.
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The key tradeoff is not just screen size: it is Apple silicon versus Intel. The M1 Pro models bring newer architecture and strong performance potential, while the 2019 Intel options may be useful when Intel compatibility or dedicated graphics matters. All five are renewed, so condition, battery health, included accessories, and the seller’s return terms deserve a check before purchase. I rank these by their overall combination of capability, configuration, portability, and stated features—not by claims about an individual unit’s condition.
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Key Takeaways
- The 14-inch 2021 M1 Pro is my best all-around choice for buyers seeking modern performance in a more manageable size than the 16-inch models.
- The 16-inch 2021 M1 Pro pairs the newest chip in this group with a Liquid Retina XDR display, but its 4.6-pound weight limits easy carrying.
- The 2020 13-inch Intel model has 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, giving it a stronger starting configuration than the 2019 13-inch model’s 8GB and 256GB.
- The 2019 16-inch Intel model is the lineup’s dedicated-graphics option, with AMD Radeon Pro 5300M, but it is older and heavier than the M1 Pro alternatives.
- Renewed battery condition and cosmetic wear can vary, so check the specific listing’s warranty, return window, and item-condition details before choosing.
| renewed macbook pro laptop | Processor | Memory | Storage | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch | Apple M1 Pro | 16GB unified memory | 512GB SSD | 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR |
| Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch | Apple M1 Pro | 16GB | 512GB SSD | 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR |
| Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch | 2.0GHz Intel Core i5 | 16GB RAM | 512GB SSD | 13.3-inch Retina, 2560 x 1600 |
| Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch | 2.6 GHz 6-core Intel Core i7-9750H | 16GB DDR4, 2666 MHz | 512GB SSD | 16-inch Retina; listed resolution is inconsistent |
| Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch | 8th-generation Intel Core i5, 1.4 GHz | 8GB DDR3 SDRAM, 2133 MHz | 256GB SSD | 13-inch Retina, 2560 x 1600, 60 Hz |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) with M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
I rank this 14-inch M1 Pro first because it offers the most balanced blend of newer Apple silicon, professional display quality, and practical size in this group. Its 16GB unified memory and 512GB SSD match the core configuration of the larger 2021 model, while the smaller chassis is easier to fit into a work bag or share a desk with other gear. The Liquid Retina XDR display gives creative work more room and richer image capability than the 13-inch Retina screens listed here.
Compared with the 16-inch M1 Pro, this is the better pick if portability matters more than maximum screen area. The 16-inch model specifies up to 17 hours of battery life, while no battery estimate is supplied for this 14-inch listing, so I would not assume identical endurance. Its stated wide range of ports also makes it a more flexible connection choice than the 2019 13-inch, which has two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports. The listing does not itemize the ports, however, so check the seller’s configuration details if a particular connector matters.
The main drawback is the uncertainty that comes with a renewed unit: cosmetic condition, battery health, and included accessories may differ. It also costs more in practical terms than choosing an older, simpler Intel configuration, though I make no price comparison here. This is my best fit for buyers who want a compact professional MacBook Pro and can verify the unit-specific condition before ordering.
Pros:- M1 Pro chip and 16GB unified memory for demanding creative workflows
- 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
- Wide range of connectivity ports described
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera and six-speaker audio system
Cons:- Renewed condition can mean prior use and variable cosmetic wear
- The listing does not give a battery-life estimate or itemize every port
Best for: People who want an Apple silicon MacBook Pro with a high-end display and professional-work capability in a more portable size than a 16-inch laptop.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a confirmed battery-health figure, the largest possible built-in screen, or a specific port that the listing does not name.
- Model:MacBook Pro (2021)
- Processor:Apple M1 Pro
- Memory:16GB unified memory
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Display:14-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
- Audio:Six-speaker system with spatial audio support
- Condition:Renewed
Our verdict“I would choose this 14-inch M1 Pro as the most balanced renewed MacBook Pro here, provided the seller’s condition and return details meet your needs.”
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (Late 2021), M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
This 16-inch 2021 model is the lineup’s clear choice when screen space and M1 Pro capability matter more than carrying weight. Its Liquid Retina XDR display runs at a listed native resolution of 3456 x 2234, and the 16GB memory plus 512GB SSD align with the 14-inch M1 Pro. The description also lists up to 17 hours of battery life and a 1080p camera, making it a compelling desk-to-meeting option on paper.
Compared with the 14-inch M1 Pro, the larger screen is more comfortable for timelines, side-by-side windows, and detailed visual work, but the listed 4.6-pound weight is a real portability penalty. The 14-inch is easier to carry day to day and also has a described wide port selection, which this listing does not spell out. Against the 2019 16-inch Intel model, this pick trades its predecessor’s named AMD dedicated graphics for Apple’s M1 Pro platform and a sharper XDR display.
This laptop is a strong match for buyers who want a large built-in workspace and do not mind a substantial machine. The tradeoffs are the renewed condition and the fact that the product details do not specify port selection or unit-specific battery health. I would compare those seller details carefully instead of assuming the advertised battery figure applies unchanged to a previously owned device.
Pros:- M1 Pro chip and 16GB memory for demanding work
- 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with 3456 x 2234 native resolution
- Advertised battery life of up to 17 hours
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera
Cons:- Listed weight of 4.6 pounds makes it the heaviest option here
- Renewed battery condition may differ from the advertised estimate
- Port details are not provided in the supplied listing information
Best for: Creative professionals, analysts, and home-office users who prioritize a large high-resolution screen and are comfortable carrying a 4.6-pound laptop.
Not ideal for: Frequent travelers who want the easiest laptop to carry, or buyers who need a confirmed port list before purchase.
- Model:MacBook Pro (Late 2021)
- Processor:Apple M1 Pro
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Display:16-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Native resolution:3456 x 2234 pixels
- Battery life:Up to 17 hours
- Weight:4.6 pounds
- Camera:1080p FaceTime HD
Our verdict“Choose this renewed 16-inch M1 Pro when display area is your priority and the extra weight is an acceptable tradeoff.”
Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020), 2.0GHz Intel Core i5, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
The 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro earns this spot because its configuration is notably more generous than the older 13-inch option: 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD rather than 8GB and 256GB. That gives buyers more room for multitasking and local files without moving to a larger laptop. The 13.3-inch Retina display has a listed 2560 x 1600 resolution, and the backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader cover useful everyday conveniences.
Compared with either 2021 M1 Pro, this is an older Intel-based choice without the listed Liquid Retina XDR display or Apple silicon. It may suit buyers whose software or workflows call for an Intel Mac, but people focused on demanding creative work should compare the M1 Pro models first. Against the 2019 13-inch, the stronger memory and storage configuration is its main advantage; the trade is a listed weight of 3.1 pounds versus 2.6 pounds for that older model.
The supplied description says the laptop is professionally inspected and tested, and notes eligibility under the Amazon Renewed Guarantee. That still does not establish the battery condition of the particular unit, and the stated battery life of up to 10 hours should be treated as an advertised figure, not a promise for a renewed machine. I see it as the sensible Intel pick for general work, not the best choice for buyers seeking the newest platform.
Pros:- 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD provide a stronger configuration than the 2019 13-inch model
- 13.3-inch Retina display with 2560 x 1600 resolution
- Backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader
- Professionally inspected and tested according to the listing
Cons:- Older Intel platform compared with both 2021 M1 Pro laptops
- Renewed battery life can vary from the advertised estimate
- Listed weight is greater than the 2019 13-inch model
Best for: Buyers who need an Intel-based MacBook Pro and want 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD in a compact 13-inch format.
Not ideal for: People prioritizing Apple silicon, the most capable creative-work platform in this lineup, or the lightest 13-inch option.
- Model year:2020
- Processor:2.0GHz Intel Core i5
- Memory:16GB RAM
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Display:13.3-inch Retina, 2560 x 1600
- Weight:3.1 pounds
- Battery life:Up to 10 hours
- Special features:Backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader
Our verdict“I recommend this as the best-configured compact Intel choice, but buyers without Intel-specific needs should compare the M1 Pro models first.”
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (Late 2019), Core i7, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
This 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro has a specific reason to remain on the shortlist: six-core Intel Core i7 processing and dedicated AMD Radeon Pro 5300M graphics. It also supplies 16GB DDR4 memory, 512GB storage, a 16-inch Retina display, and four USB/Thunderbolt ports as described. For a buyer who depends on Intel software compatibility or wants the listed dedicated graphics, it differs meaningfully from the M1 Pro models rather than simply being an older version of them.
Compared with the 2021 16-inch M1 Pro, this model gives you the named AMD graphics hardware and a stated four-port setup, but it uses an older Intel platform and a standard Retina display rather than Liquid Retina XDR. It is listed at 4 pounds, lighter than the 2021 16-inch model’s 4.6 pounds, though it remains a large laptop. The product information also flags inconsistent display-resolution specifications, so I would verify the exact screen details with the seller before buying.
The 90-day warranty is listed, but renewed condition can bring cosmetic wear and variable battery capacity. Its advertised battery life of up to 11 hours is not a guarantee for the particular unit. I rank it below the M1 Pro options for most buyers, while giving it a distinct role for those who specifically value Intel compatibility, its named graphics chip, or the stated port count.
Pros:- Six-core 2.6 GHz Intel Core i7 processor
- Dedicated AMD Radeon Pro 5300M graphics with 4GB GDDR6
- 16GB memory and 512GB SSD
- Four listed USB ports with Thunderbolt and USB-C
Cons:- Older Intel generation than the 2021 M1 Pro models
- Renewed battery condition and cosmetic wear may vary
- Supplied display-resolution specifications are inconsistent
Best for: Mac users who need an Intel platform, dedicated Radeon graphics, and a large screen with a stated four-port configuration.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want Apple silicon, an XDR display, verified display specifications, or a compact laptop for daily travel.
- Model year:2019
- Processor:2.6 GHz 6-core Intel Core i7-9750H
- Memory:16GB DDR4, 2666 MHz
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Display:16-inch Retina; listed resolution is inconsistent
- Graphics:AMD Radeon Pro 5300M, 4GB GDDR6
- Ports:Four USB ports, including Thunderbolt and USB-C
- Warranty:90 days
Our verdict“I would pick this 16-inch Intel model only when its dedicated Radeon graphics, Intel compatibility, or stated port setup better fits your work than an M1 Pro.”
Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (2019), 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
This 2019 13-inch MacBook Pro is the most compact and lightest option in the supplied list at 2.6 pounds. Its 13-inch Retina display includes True Tone, and the listing adds Touch Bar, Touch ID, and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645. Those features make it a straightforward choice for everyday tasks and routine portability, particularly for someone who values a small MacBook Pro more than spare capacity.
Its limitations become clear beside the 2020 13-inch model: this one has 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD, compared with 16GB and 512GB. That difference leaves less headroom for heavy multitasking and a large local library. It is also much less suited to sustained professional workloads than the 2021 M1 Pro options. On the other hand, its listed 2.6-pound weight is below the 2020 model’s 3.1 pounds, and its 90-day limited warranty is specified.
The two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports may be restrictive if you regularly connect multiple accessories without a hub. The 8GB memory is the more important long-term limitation, and because this is renewed, battery health can vary even though the listing advertises up to 10 hours. I would choose it for light tasks and portability only after checking the seller’s condition details; buyers needing broader multitasking capacity should step up to the 2020 13-inch configuration.
Pros:- Lightest listed laptop here at 2.6 pounds
- 13-inch Retina display with True Tone
- Touch ID fingerprint recognition and Touch Bar
- 90-day limited warranty listed
Cons:- 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD offer less headroom than the 2020 13-inch model
- Only two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports
- Older Intel platform with renewed battery condition that may vary
Best for: Students and everyday users seeking a light 13-inch MacBook Pro for browsing, writing, video calls, and other modest workloads.
Not ideal for: Buyers who multitask heavily, store many large files locally, need several built-in ports, or want the strongest performance in this group.
- Model year:2019
- Processor:8th-generation Intel Core i5, 1.4 GHz
- Memory:8GB DDR3 SDRAM, 2133 MHz
- Storage:256GB SSD
- Display:13-inch Retina, 2560 x 1600, 60 Hz
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics 645
- Weight:2.6 pounds
- Ports:Two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports
- Warranty:90-day limited warranty
Our verdict“This is the portability-first basic option, but I would favor the 2020 13-inch model if you need more memory and storage for everyday flexibility.”
How We Picked
I ranked these five renewed MacBook Pro configurations around the choices buyers actually face: chip generation, memory and storage, screen size, portability, and connection or graphics needs. The two 2021 M1 Pro models sit at the top because they combine Apple silicon with Liquid Retina XDR displays and 16GB of unified memory. Between them, the 14-inch earns the lead for a more useful balance of screen area and carryability; the 16-inch takes the larger-display role.
I then compared the Intel models by their distinct strengths rather than treating all older machines as interchangeable. The 2020 13-inch configuration has 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD, while the 2019 13-inch has half those capacities and a lighter listed weight. The 2019 16-inch stands apart with dedicated AMD graphics and four ports, but its older Intel platform and renewed battery uncertainty keep it below the M1 Pro choices for most buyers.
Renewed listings describe previously owned or refurbished devices, not factory-new units. I use only the supplied specifications and product descriptions; I do not assume a particular battery cycle count, cosmetic grade, accessory bundle, or real-world performance result. A listing’s condition notes, warranty, and return policy should factor into the final choice, especially when the description does not specify battery health.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Macbook Pro Laptops
I would start by matching the laptop to your workload, then check whether the specific renewed unit’s condition and seller terms are acceptable. A model year or advertised battery figure cannot tell you the current battery health of an individual laptop.Choose the chip for the work you do
The two 2021 models use Apple M1 Pro, making them the strongest general-purpose choices here for buyers handling demanding creative or professional workflows. The Intel laptops remain relevant when a particular application, setup, or compatibility requirement depends on Intel. The 2019 16-inch has a named AMD Radeon Pro 5300M, a meaningful distinction if that graphics configuration fits your work. If you do not have a specific reason to choose Intel, compare the M1 Pro options first rather than assuming a higher Intel model number means a newer platform.
Treat memory and storage as practical limits
Among the 13-inch options, the configuration gap matters: the 2020 model has 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, while the 2019 model has 8GB and 256GB. More memory can give multitasking more room, and more storage leaves additional space for apps and local files. Both M1 Pro models also list 16GB memory and 512GB storage. The 2019 16-inch matches those capacities, though its memory is DDR4 rather than the unified memory specified for the M1 Pro configurations.
Balance display size against portability
The 16-inch laptops offer more workspace for documents, editing timelines, and side-by-side windows, but they are less convenient to carry. The 2021 16-inch is listed at 4.6 pounds and the 2019 16-inch at 4 pounds. The 14-inch M1 Pro is the more balanced choice if you want a large professional display without choosing a 16-inch chassis. For frequent travel and lighter tasks, the 13-inch models are smaller; the 2019 version is listed at 2.6 pounds and the 2020 at 3.1 pounds.
Check ports and accessories against your setup
Connection needs can change which model makes sense. The 2019 13-inch listing specifies two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, while the 2019 16-inch specifies four USB ports including Thunderbolt and USB-C. The 14-inch 2021 description promises a wide range of ports without naming each one, so verify the exact connectors for your peripherals. Also check whether the renewed listing includes a power adapter or other accessories; the supplied product details do not confirm a bundle for every option.
Read the renewed-condition and warranty details
Renewed laptops have prior ownership or refurbishment history, and their battery capacity and cosmetic condition can vary. Check the condition grade, return window, warranty coverage, and any available battery-health information for the exact listing. The 2020 13-inch description notes eligibility under the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, while both specified 2019 listings mention a 90-day warranty. Do not treat an advertised maximum battery-life figure as a guarantee of present-day runtime on a renewed device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which renewed MacBook Pro in this list is the best choice for most buyers?
I rank the 14-inch 2021 M1 Pro first because it combines Apple silicon, 16GB unified memory, 512GB storage, and a Liquid Retina XDR display in a smaller format than the 16-inch models. It is not the right fit for everyone: buyers who need the largest screen may prefer the 16-inch M1 Pro, while Intel-dependent users should compare the Intel configurations instead.
Is a 2021 M1 Pro model a better choice than these Intel MacBook Pros?
For buyers seeking a newer platform and strong capability for creative work, the 2021 M1 Pro models are the leading options in this lineup. The Intel models can still make sense when software compatibility, the 2019 16-inch model’s dedicated AMD graphics, or a specific configuration is the priority. Compare the computer with your own applications and connection needs rather than choosing on year alone.
Should I choose the 14-inch or 16-inch M1 Pro?
Choose the 14-inch if you want a professional display and M1 Pro hardware in a more portable package; its description also calls out a wide range of ports. Choose the 16-inch if screen area is central to your work and you accept its listed 4.6-pound weight. Both supplied configurations list 16GB memory and a 512GB SSD, so screen size and carrying comfort are the main differences to weigh.
What should I check before buying a renewed MacBook Pro?
Review the seller’s condition description, warranty, return policy, battery-health information if available, and the included accessories. Confirm the exact processor, memory, storage, ports, and display details against your needs. Renewed condition can vary from unit to unit, so an advertised maximum battery-life figure should not be treated as a promise about the laptop you receive.
Is the 2019 13-inch model enough for everyday use?
Its 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Retina display, and light 2.6-pound build can suit browsing, writing, video calls, and modest workloads. It offers less memory and storage than the 2020 13-inch model and has only two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, so heavy multitasking, large local projects, or multiple direct connections may call for another pick. Check the specific renewed unit’s condition and battery details before deciding.
Conclusion
For most buyers who want a modern professional laptop without committing to a 16-inch chassis, I recommend the 14-inch 2021 M1 Pro. Choose the 16-inch 2021 M1 Pro if your work benefits from more screen area and the added weight suits your routine. If you specifically need Intel, the 2020 13-inch is the more capable compact configuration, while the 2019 16-inch is the specialist option for its listed AMD graphics and four-port setup. The 2019 13-inch makes the most sense for lighter tasks and buyers who value its lower listed weight above memory and storage headroom. Whichever you choose, I would make the final call only after checking the exact renewed unit’s condition, battery information, warranty, and return terms.
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