The best MacBook Pro laptops balance performance, screen size, memory, and long-term usefulness for the work you actually do. My best overall pick is the 2025 14-inch MacBook Pro with M5, a practical choice for most people who want a current-generation Pro in a portable size. For demanding creative work, the 2026 14-inch M5 Pro adds more memory, while the 16-inch M5 Pro suits buyers who value a larger workspace. The older 2020 and 2021 renewed models may fit narrower needs, but their age and smaller storage call for more careful tradeoffs. Read on for the full breakdown and a guide to choosing the right configuration.
Get the latest gadgets delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 14-inch M5 is the strongest all-around fit: it pairs a current-generation chip with 1TB of storage in a more portable size than the 16-inch picks.
- M5 Pro separates demanding workloads from everyday use: its 24GB memory configuration makes the 2026 models a better match for heavier creative and professional tasks.
- Screen size is a real workflow choice: the 16-inch versions provide more room to work, while the 14-inch models are easier to carry.
- The 2020 and 2021 renewed options are compromise picks: their 16GB memory and 512GB storage may work for lighter needs, but buyers give up newer-generation hardware.
- The two 16-inch M5 Pro listings differ in stated connectivity and finish: one explicitly lists Wi-Fi 7 and Silver, so check the exact configuration rather than assuming listings are interchangeable.
| MacBook Pro laptop | Processor | Display | Memory | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2025 MacBook Pro Laptop | Apple M5 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU | 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 16GB unified memory | 1TB SSD |
| Apple 2020 MacBook Pro 13-inch | 2.0GHz Intel Core i5 | 13.3-inch Retina, 2560 × 1600 | 16GB | 512GB SSD |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | Apple M5 Pro chip with 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU | 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 24GB unified memory | 1TB SSD |
| Apple MacBook Pro Late 2021 wi | Apple M1 Pro | 16-inch, 3456 × 2234 | 16GB | 512GB |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | Apple M5 Pro chip with 15-core CPU and 16-core GPU | 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 24GB unified memory | 1TB SSD |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | Apple M5 Pro chip with 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU | 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR | 24GB unified memory | 1TB SSD |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple 2025 MacBook Pro Laptop with M5 Chip, 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Space Black
The 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro is my best all-around pick for buyers who want a current Pro laptop without the larger size of the 16-inch models. Its 10-core M5 CPU and GPU suit demanding everyday creative work, while the Liquid Retina XDR display gives photo and video projects a bright, high-contrast workspace. Compared with the 14-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro, this model has less memory and a less capable chip, but it still offers 1TB of storage and a useful mix of ports for common workflows. The tradeoff is headroom: professionals handling large, sustained workloads may benefit from the M5 Pro models’ 24GB memory and stronger processors. I’d choose this one for a balanced mix of portability, display quality, and performance.
Pros:- M5 chip with a 10-core CPU and GPU for demanding everyday work
- 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with high brightness and contrast
- 1TB SSD provides room for large project files
- Includes Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3, SDXC, HDMI, and a headphone jack
Cons:- 16GB of unified memory offers less headroom than the 24GB M5 Pro models
- Thunderbolt 4 is an older generation than the Thunderbolt 5 connectivity listed for the M5 Pro laptops
Best for: Creative professionals and advanced everyday users who want a portable 14-inch MacBook Pro, a high-quality display, and 1TB of storage without stepping up to an M5 Pro configuration.
Not ideal for: Users running large professional projects that need more than 16GB of unified memory, or buyers whose work benefits from the stronger M5 Pro processors.
- Processor:Apple M5 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU
- Display:14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Memory:16GB unified memory
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Battery life:All-day
- Ports:Three Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3, SDXC card slot, HDMI, headphone jack
- Color:Space Black
Our verdict“Choose this 14-inch M5 model for a portable, well-rounded MacBook Pro; opt for an M5 Pro model if your workloads need more performance and memory.”
Apple 2020 MacBook Pro 13-inch, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray (Renewed)
This renewed 13-inch Intel MacBook Pro is the entry point for buyers who value a familiar macOS laptop and can accept older hardware. Its 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD can cover routine office tasks, browsing, and lighter creative projects, while the smaller Retina display keeps the machine more compact than the 16-inch M1 Pro and M5 Pro options. But its 2.0GHz Intel Core i5 and Intel Iris Plus graphics sit well behind the newer M5 and M5 Pro chips in this roundup, so I would not pick it for demanding video work, 3D rendering, or a long-term professional workstation. Refurbished condition also means buyers should check the seller’s warranty and device condition. Compared with the 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro, it gives up newer performance and an XDR display to serve a simpler-use case.
Pros:- 16GB RAM supports routine multitasking
- 512GB SSD provides space for everyday files and applications
- 13.3-inch Retina display in a compact laptop body
- Backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader are listed features
Cons:- Older Intel Core i5 and integrated graphics trail the M5 and M5 Pro models
- Renewed condition may include cosmetic imperfections and comes with warranty considerations
- 512GB storage is less than the 1TB drives in the newer roundup options
Best for: Students, home-office users, and Mac buyers with light workloads who are comfortable purchasing a professionally inspected renewed Intel model.
Not ideal for: Video editors, 3D artists, and buyers seeking current-generation performance, an XDR display, or a new-device configuration.
- Display:13.3-inch Retina, 2560 × 1600
- Processor:2.0GHz Intel Core i5
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Graphics:Intel Iris Plus Graphics
- Battery life:Up to 10 hours
- Weight:3.1 pounds
- Condition:Renewed
Our verdict“Pick this renewed 13-inch MacBook Pro for basic macOS work on older hardware, but choose an M5 model for demanding tasks or a longer-lasting performance platform.”
Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop with M5 Pro Chip, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Space Black
For sustained creative and professional workloads, this 16.2-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro pairs the most powerful listed processor in this batch with a roomy display. The 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU, plus 24GB of unified memory, give demanding apps more resources than the standard M5 model or the 14-inch M5 Pro configuration. That larger screen is useful when arranging timelines, documents, or multiple panels without an external monitor. It also brings Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, HDMI, and an SDXC slot for a current, flexible desk setup. The tradeoff is portability: at 16.2 inches, it is less convenient to carry than either 14-inch option. I’d favor the 14-inch M5 Pro for frequent travel, but choose this one when workspace and performance matter more.
Pros:- M5 Pro chip with an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU
- 24GB unified memory and 1TB SSD suit demanding projects
- 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers a large work area
- Thunderbolt 5, Wi-Fi 7, HDMI, and SDXC card slot support flexible connections
Cons:- Larger 16.2-inch chassis is less convenient to carry than the 14-inch models
- Battery life is described only as all-day, without a specific duration
- The 14-inch M5 Pro offers a more portable alternative with 24GB memory and 1TB storage
Best for: Video editors, developers, and other power users who want a large built-in workspace and the strongest listed M5 Pro processor in this batch.
Not ideal for: Frequent travelers or users who prefer a smaller laptop; the 16.2-inch format is less portable than the 14-inch MacBook Pro models.
- Processor:Apple M5 Pro chip with 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU
- Display:16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Memory:24GB unified memory
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Battery life:All-day
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- Ports:Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC card slot, MagSafe 3
- Color:Space Black
Our verdict“Choose this 16-inch M5 Pro when screen space and demanding performance take priority over portability.”
Apple MacBook Pro Late 2021 with M1 Pro Chip (16-inch, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) – Space Gray (Renewed)
This renewed 16-inch M1 Pro MacBook Pro earns its place for buyers who want a large XDR display and Apple silicon, but do not need the newest chip generation. Its M1 Pro is a more suitable foundation for professional creative work than the Intel processor in the renewed 13-inch 2020 MacBook Pro, and the listed battery life reaches up to 17 hours. The 16-inch, 3456 × 2234 display gives editors and multitaskers plenty of room, while the 1080p FaceTime HD camera suits frequent video calls. Against the 2026 M5 Pro models, though, it has less memory, less storage, and an older processor. The renewed status and limited warranty add uncertainty, and its 4.6-pound weight makes it a poor fit for daily commuting.
Pros:- M1 Pro chip is better suited to demanding work than the Intel chip in the renewed 2020 model
- 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with 3456 × 2234 resolution
- Listed battery life of up to 17 hours
- 1080p FaceTime HD camera for video calls
Cons:- Renewed condition and limited warranty may leave less purchase certainty
- At 4.6 pounds, it is heavier than the 14-inch MacBook Pro choices
- 16GB RAM and 512GB storage are below the 24GB and 1TB configurations of the M5 Pro models
Best for: Creative professionals who want a large Apple silicon MacBook Pro display and are comfortable buying a renewed 2021 model with a limited warranty.
Not ideal for: People who carry a laptop daily, need 1TB of internal storage, or want the newer M5 Pro chips and Thunderbolt 5 listed on the 2026 models.
- Processor:Apple M1 Pro
- Display:16-inch, 3456 × 2234
- Memory:16GB
- Storage:512GB
- Graphics:Integrated M1 Pro
- Battery life:Up to 17 hours
- Weight:4.6 pounds
- Condition and warranty:Renewed; limited warranty
Our verdict“Choose this renewed M1 Pro for a large-screen Apple silicon workstation if you accept older hardware, lower storage, and limited-warranty terms.”
Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop with M5 Pro Chip, 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 24GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Space Black
This 14.2-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro is the portable performance pick: it keeps the compact size of the standard M5 model while adding a 15-core CPU, 16-core GPU, and 24GB of memory. That extra headroom makes it a better match for demanding creative apps and heavier multitasking than the 16GB M5 configuration. Compared with the 16.2-inch M5 Pro, this version gives up screen area and uses a lower-core-count chip, but it is the more practical choice for moving between workspaces. Its Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, and SDXC connections also make it easier to attach common production gear. A 1TB SSD rounds out the configuration. The main compromise is that this is still a performance-oriented machine, and the supplied battery details do not give a specific runtime.
Pros:- M5 Pro chip with a 15-core CPU and 16-core GPU
- 24GB unified memory supports heavier multitasking than the standard M5 configuration
- 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display in a more portable size than the 16.2-inch alternative
- Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC, and MagSafe 3 provide versatile connections
Cons:- Smaller screen than the 16.2-inch M5 Pro model
- Lower CPU and GPU core counts than the 16.2-inch M5 Pro configuration
- Battery life is described as all-day without a specific runtime
Best for: Traveling creative professionals and developers who need M5 Pro performance, 24GB memory, and 1TB storage in a 14-inch laptop.
Not ideal for: Users who want the largest built-in workspace or the higher-core-count M5 Pro configuration offered by the 16.2-inch model.
- Processor:Apple M5 Pro chip with 15-core CPU and 16-core GPU
- Display:14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Memory:24GB unified memory
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Battery life:All-day
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6
- Ports:Thunderbolt 5, SDXC card slot, HDMI, MagSafe 3
- Camera:12MP Center Stage
- Speakers:Six speakers with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos
Our verdict“Pick this 14-inch M5 Pro when you need strong professional performance in a more travel-friendly size than the 16-inch model.”
Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop with M5 Pro Chip, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 24GB Memory, 1TB SSD, Wi-Fi 7, Silver
I’d choose this configuration when screen space and sustained creative capability matter more than carrying weight. Its 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display gives detailed work, timelines, and multitasking more room than the 14.2-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro, while the M5 Pro chip with an 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU is aimed at demanding professional workloads. The 24GB of unified memory and 1TB SSD also provide a stronger working base than the renewed 2021 M1 Pro model listed here.
The tradeoff is portability: at 4.71 pounds, this is less appealing for frequent travel than the smaller M5 Pro model. Heavy-workload battery longevity is not specified, either, so I wouldn’t choose it on the assumption that intensive tasks will preserve all-day runtime. It makes the most sense for desk-based creators who want a large display and modern connectivity, including Thunderbolt 5 and Wi-Fi 7.
Pros:- 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display provides more workspace for creative tools and multitasking.
- M5 Pro chip pairs an 18-core CPU with a 20-core GPU for demanding professional tasks.
- 24GB unified memory and 1TB SSD support larger projects and local files.
- Three Thunderbolt 5 ports plus HDMI, SDXC, and MagSafe 3 offer versatile connections.
Cons:- At 4.71 pounds, it is a heavy choice for regular travel.
- Battery longevity under heavy workloads is not specified.
- Its large-screen design is less compact than the 14.2-inch M5 Pro alternative.
Best for: Video editors, designers, and developers who regularly work across large projects and want a 16.2-inch display with substantial memory and storage.
Not ideal for: Frequent travelers or commuters who prioritize a lighter laptop; the 4.71-pound weight makes it less convenient to carry than the 14.2-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro.
- Processor:Apple M5 Pro chip with 18-core CPU and 20-core GPU
- Display:16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
- Memory:24GB unified memory
- Storage:1TB SSD
- Battery life:All-day
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6
- Ports:Three Thunderbolt 5, MagSafe 3, SDXC, HDMI, headphone jack
- Weight:4.71 pounds
- Color:Silver
Our verdict“Choose this model for a spacious display and demanding creative work, but pick the 14.2-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro if portability matters more.”
How We Picked
I ranked these six MacBook Pro configurations by how well their chip, memory, storage, and display size fit common workloads, while weighing portability and the tradeoffs of buying an older renewed model. A newer chip alone did not decide the order: I also looked at whether the configuration offers a sensible balance for everyday use or provides enough headroom for heavier projects.
The 2025 14-inch M5 leads as the broadest fit for buyers who want a current-generation Pro without the larger 16-inch body. The 2026 M5 Pro configurations rank higher for sustained professional demands and larger working spaces, with screen size determining which is the better match. The renewed 2021 and 2020 models sit lower because their older generations and 512GB storage make them less versatile over time, even though their listed memory can still suit lighter workflows. The two near-matching 16-inch M5 Pro listings are distinguished only by details stated in their names, so I avoid assuming unlisted hardware differences.
| MacBook Pro laptop | Battery life | Ports | Color | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple 2025 MacBook Pro Laptop | All-day | Three Thunderbolt 4, MagSafe 3, SDXC card slot, HDMI, headphone jack | Space Black | — |
| Apple 2020 MacBook Pro 13-inch | Up to 10 hours | — | — | — |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | All-day | Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, SDXC card slot, MagSafe 3 | Space Black | Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 |
| Apple MacBook Pro Late 2021 wi | Up to 17 hours | — | — | — |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | All-day | Thunderbolt 5, SDXC card slot, HDMI, MagSafe 3 | — | Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 |
| Apple 2026 MacBook Pro Laptop | All-day | Three Thunderbolt 5, MagSafe 3, SDXC, HDMI, headphone jack | Silver | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best MacBook Pro Laptops
Before choosing among the best MacBook Pro laptops, match the configuration to your daily workload rather than buying the highest tier by default. These broader checks can help you avoid paying for capability you will not use—or choosing a configuration that feels constrained later.
Match the chip tier to sustained work
Think about the demanding tasks you repeat, not just the most intensive task you might try once. Document work, browsing, and routine photo edits often do not call for the same headroom as complex video projects or large creative files. The M5 Pro models are the stronger direction when heavier workloads are central to your job, while the standard M5 is a more measured choice for mixed everyday use. A common mistake is treating every MacBook Pro as interchangeable because the product names look similar. Choose more processing capability when it can save time regularly, not simply because a higher tier exists. If your workload is light, that extra headroom may be less useful than a more portable screen size.
Choose screen size around your work setup
A 14-inch display favors a laptop that is easier to carry between home, class, and work, while a 16-inch screen gives more room for timelines, side-by-side windows, and detailed editing. Ask whether you often work away from an external monitor; that makes built-in screen area more valuable. If the laptop usually stays at a desk, a larger display may reduce the need to rearrange windows. If you commute or travel often, carrying a larger model every day can become a bigger drawback than its extra workspace is a benefit. Do not assume that the larger display alone makes a model faster; screen size and chip tier are separate choices. Pick for where you work most, not for the occasional session.
Estimate memory and storage needs honestly
Memory affects how comfortably a laptop handles multiple demanding apps and large working files at once, while storage determines how much you can keep readily available on the computer. The 24GB configurations in this roundup offer more room for heavier multitasking than the 16GB models, but buyers with modest workloads may not use that extra capacity often. The 1TB options also leave more local space than the 512GB renewed models, particularly if projects include large media files. Before choosing, review what you currently keep on your laptop and how often you rely on external drives or cloud storage. A frequent mistake is buying too little storage and assuming file management will always be convenient. Choose capacity based on recurring work and retention habits, not an imagined worst case alone.
Treat renewed models as a separate decision
A renewed MacBook Pro can make sense when a buyer prioritizes an older configuration and accepts that it is not the same proposition as a current-generation model. Compare its generation, memory, and storage with your actual software needs rather than focusing only on the Pro name. Renewed products can vary in condition, included accessories, seller terms, and return coverage, so inspect the specific listing before ordering. Do not assume a renewed laptop has the same remaining support horizon or battery condition as a new one. The older 2020 and 2021 models here also have 512GB storage, which may require more external storage for large projects. If reliability details and long-term use matter more than minimizing the initial commitment, a newer configuration is the safer fit.
Check the exact listing configuration
Several models in this roundup share a chip tier, screen size, memory, and storage, so small listing details can carry more weight than the headline name. The 16-inch M5 Pro listings, for example, differ in the stated finish and one explicitly names Wi-Fi 7. Verify the exact model year and configuration on the seller page, especially when listings use similar titles. Do not infer that a feature is included just because it appears on a related model. Also confirm keyboard layout, included power adapter, and return terms where those details are listed. Careful configuration checking helps prevent ordering a model that is close to, but not the same as, the one you intended.
Pay for headroom only when your work can use it
Moving to a more capable chip or more memory is most useful when it affects work you perform often, such as handling larger projects or running several demanding applications together. For occasional intensive tasks, an M5 configuration may be a more balanced choice than a Pro model with capability that sits unused. On the other hand, a work machine that is already stretched can cost time through slower workflows and constant file juggling. Consider how long you plan to keep the laptop, whether your projects are growing, and whether your current setup feels constrained. Avoid choosing solely by the most impressive specification or by a desire to future-proof without a clear workload. The best fit is the one that supports your likely use over the time you expect to own it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 14-inch M5 a better choice than the 2026 M5 Pro?
It depends on whether portability and everyday balance matter more to you than extra performance headroom. The 2025 14-inch M5 has 1TB of storage and suits mixed workloads in a compact size. The 2026 M5 Pro models add 24GB of memory and are better suited to demanding creative or professional work. If those heavier tasks are occasional, the M5 may be the more sensible match. If they are part of your regular workflow, the Pro configuration is easier to justify.
Should I choose a 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro?
Choose based on where and how you work most often. A 14-inch model is easier to carry and can be more convenient when you move between locations. A 16-inch model offers more built-in workspace, which can help with editing timelines, detailed layouts, and side-by-side applications. If you usually connect to a large external display, the smaller laptop may be enough. If the laptop screen is your main workspace, the larger size may be worth the added bulk.
Is a renewed 2020 or 2021 MacBook Pro still worth considering?
It can be a fit for buyers with lighter needs who are comfortable choosing an older generation and checking the individual listing closely. Both renewed options here list 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, so consider whether that capacity suits your files and applications. Their older hardware makes them less compelling for buyers who want the longest practical runway or handle demanding projects. Review condition details, battery information if provided, seller terms, and return coverage before deciding. If those details are unclear, a newer model may be the lower-risk choice.
Is 16GB of memory enough, or should I choose 24GB?
For routine work and moderate multitasking, 16GB may be adequate, but the right answer depends on the applications and project sizes you use. Buyers who regularly work with large creative files or several demanding apps at once may benefit from the 24GB configurations in this roundup. More memory is most useful when it prevents slowdowns in work you do often, not as a specification to buy without a reason. Consider your current workload and whether it is likely to grow during the time you keep the laptop. If you are unsure, prioritize the tasks that already make your current computer feel constrained.
Which 16-inch M5 Pro listing should I choose?
The two 16-inch M5 Pro listings share the stated chip, display size, memory, and storage, so the available details do not establish a performance difference. One listing identifies a Space Black finish, while the other specifies Silver and explicitly names Wi-Fi 7. Check the complete product details to confirm which features and exact model are included before ordering. Choose based on the configuration you can verify, along with your preferred finish and any connectivity needs. Do not assume that information missing from one title means the feature is absent; confirm it on the listing itself.
Conclusion
For most buyers, I recommend the 2025 14-inch M5 as the best overall: it combines a current-generation chip, 1TB storage, and a portable size. The 2026 14-inch M5 Pro is the best choice for demanding work in a compact laptop, while either 16-inch M5 Pro is the best premium fit for a larger built-in workspace. Beginners who want a capable MacBook Pro without starting at the highest performance tier should look first at the 14-inch M5. The 2020 and 2021 renewed models are value-oriented picks only when their older generation and 512GB storage suit your needs and the listing checks out. For the specific need of a larger screen plus explicitly listed Wi-Fi 7, compare the Silver 16-inch M5 Pro listing carefully against the Space Black alternative.
Halloween Picks
halloween
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
