MacBook Pro Comparison: Intel i9 vs. M1 Max & M1 Pro Chips

Hey there! If you’re currently in the market for a MacBook Pro, you’ve got quite the lineup to choose from, especially with some of Apple’s recent releases. Whether you’re drawn to the classic capabilities of Intel’s processors or you’re excited about the innovative performance offered by Apple’s M1 chips, there’s a lot to consider. Each model has its strengths, and choosing the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. But fear not—we’re here to break things down and help you discover which MacBook Pro is your perfect match. After all, who doesn’t want a laptop that’s as stylish as it is powerful?

For years, the Apple MacBook Pro has been a go-to choice for professionals and tech aficionados alike. These laptops tend to offer robust processing power, high-quality displays, and sleek design—all characteristics that put Apple ahead in the game of computing technology. The transition from Intel processors to Apple’s custom-designed M1 chips has marked a significant milestone, boosting energy efficiency and computational speed. Owning any of these MacBooks means investing in a reliable, premium product that caters to both creativity and productivity. Whether you need to render video, compile software, or simply multitask with ease, these machines are built to handle the heavy lifting.

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these models. We’ll explore the 2019 Intel-powered options alongside the newer, Apple M1-enhanced versions. You’ll discover the real differences in performance, storage, and design, allowing you to make an informed decision. From renewed 2019 MacBook Pros to the powerhouse 2021 versions with M1 Max and M1 Pro chips, you’ll soon find out which laptop best suits your needs and lifestyle. Buckle up, and let’s get you going on finding your new favorite tech companion!

Renewed 2019 Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch, i9, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray

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The 2019 Apple MacBook Pro with a 2.4GHz Intel Core i9 processor is designed with professionals in mind, particularly those who engage in demanding tasks like video editing, graphic design, and software development. Its high-performance capabilities make it a solid choice for anyone requiring substantial computing power on the go. Whether you spend your day coding complex algorithms, rendering high-definition videos, or multitasking with large applications, this laptop aims to meet your professional needs with ease and efficiency.

You’ll find that this MacBook Pro handles high-performance workloads seamlessly, thanks to its powerful Intel i9 processor. It’s equipped with 32GB of RAM which ensures that even with multiple applications running, your system remains responsive. The 512GB SSD storage offers rapid data access, making file retrieval and application load times impressively quick. With its robust performance specifications, this MacBook Pro is designed to keep up with demanding creative software, be it Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro, or any resource-heavy application you might use in your professional capacity.

This MacBook Pro strikes a balance between power and portability, making it ideal for professionals who need to work from various locations. We appreciate its 16-inch Retina display, which provides a large, vibrant canvas that ensures accurate color reproduction — a critical factor for designers and video editors. This larger display compared to its predecessors offers an immersive viewing experience, crucial for precise creative work.

Despite being a renewed product, it’s been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers. You benefit from a reliable machine that shows no visible cosmetic imperfections at arm’s length distance. Its battery, exceeding 80% capacity relative to new, offers you ample power for your workdays. Knowing that you have a 90-day window for replacement or refund provides peace of mind with your purchase.

The Intel Core i9 processor with a clock speed of 2.4GHz ensures that this MacBook Pro can tackle advanced computing tasks. You’ll find it particularly beneficial if you’re involved in work that demands quick processing times, such as compiling code or running complex simulations. The 32GB of RAM further bolsters its ability to handle intense multitasking, allowing you to switch seamlessly between applications.

The 16-inch Retina display not only delivers stunning visuals but also boasts exceptional color accuracy. Professionals working with graphics or visual content will appreciate the clarity and depth of detail, which provides a superior viewing experience that aids precision and detail-oriented tasks.

The 2019 MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9 maintains the high-quality design standards associated with Apple products. Its sturdy build, sleek Space Gray finish, and ergonomic keyboard make it a pleasure to use, both physically and aesthetically. Even as a renewed product, its professional refurbishment ensures it retains core Apple quality. The enhanced battery life and non-original, but fully functional, accessories that accompany the device ensure you’re getting significant value.

• Exceptional Performance: Thanks to the Intel Core i9 processor and 32GB RAM, you experience smooth operations across demanding tasks.

• Vibrant Display: The large Retina display with high color accuracy is perfect for creative professionals.

• Renewed and Reliable: Professionally refurbished, this MacBook retains its quality and appeal.

• Heaviness: Being a 16-inch model, it’s slightly heavier, which may be cumbersome for frequent travelers.

• Non-Original Accessories: Accessories are compatible but not original, which could be a downside for those seeking a complete Apple experience.

• Limited Graphics Performance: While potent for many tasks, integrated graphics may not suffice for all high-end gaming or 3D rendering needs.

The 2019 MacBook Pro with Intel i9 is a powerhouse for professionals needing superior performance in a portable package. It’s well-suited for those who value display quality and processing power in their work tools.

Renewed 2021 Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch, M1 Max, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Space Gray

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If you are in the market for a powerhouse laptop that doesn’t compromise on performance, the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip is designed for you. Built to handle intensive workloads, it shines particularly in fields like video editing, software development, and graphic design. This laptop is crafted to support professionals who need a machine capable of handling multiple high-performance tasks simultaneously.

The 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip is a standout for several reasons. Mainly, its game-changing performance capabilities make it a top choice for power users in any creative field. The 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is stunning, providing vivid images and deep blacks that are perfect for creative projects. Additionally, with excellent battery life reaching up to 17 hours, you are no longer tethered to your desk, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. The inclusion of a 1080p FaceTime HD camera is a boost for those of you who rely heavily on virtual meetings, ensuring you present yourself, as well as your work, in the best light possible.

The 2021 MacBook Pro is powered by Apple’s revolutionary M1 Max chip. This processor marks a substantial leap in CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance, making it an ideal system for demanding professional workflows. Boasting a 10-core CPU, it offers up to 3.7x faster performance. This means that tasks like video rendering, coding simulations, or 3D modeling happen almost in the blink of an eye.

Machine learning capabilities are also enhanced with a 16-core Neural Engine delivering up to 11x faster performance. This is incredibly beneficial if your work involves AI or data science experiments requiring quick data processing and analysis.

Complemented by 32GB of RAM and a roomy 1TB SSD, this MacBook Pro doesn’t just meet your high demands; it exceeds them, providing a seamless, lag-free experience even when you push it to the limits.

The build quality of the MacBook Pro is nothing short of exceptional. Sleek and sophisticated in its Space Gray hue, it feels robust yet elegant, a perfect match for professionals. The durability of the laptop assures you that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, from coffee shop excursions to intense marathon work sessions. The keyboard and touchpad are responsive and comfortable, making long typing sessions feel effortless.

Apple’s focus on quality shines through software as well, with macOS Monterey optimizing the remarkable hardware power of the M1 Max chip, offering intuitive and smooth user experiences.

While the 2021 MacBook Pro with M1 Max has stellar attributes, some trade-offs come into play.

• Revolutionary M1 Max Chip: Provides exceptional speed and efficiency, ideal for professionals needing serious compute power.

• Outstanding Battery Life: Up to 17 hours on a single charge helps you remain productive on the go.

• 16-Inch Liquid Retina XDR Display: Offers stunning, true-to-life images which are great for visual projects.

• Superb Build Quality: Durable and elegant design typical of Apple’s high standard.

• Pricey Investment: The power and performance come at a premium, which might not be feasible for everyone.

• Limited Port Selection: Although improved from previous models, it still trails behind in variety compared to some competitors, potentially requiring additional adapters for connectivity.

In offering such a comprehensive package, the 2021 MacBook Pro with M1 Max is an impressive tool for creators, innovators, and tech enthusiasts looking for uncompromised performance in a portable form.

2021 Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch, M1 Max, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD – Space Gray

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When you opt for the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, M1 Max chip with 10‑core CPU and 32‑core GPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) in Space Gray, you’re aiming for a laptop designed to handle some of the most demanding tasks in today’s digital landscape. Whether you’re a video editor, graphic designer, software developer, or someone who regularly juggles heavy computational tasks, this MacBook Pro has the horsepower to ensure that your workflow is smooth and efficient. The M1 Max chip inside this machine is the perfect fit for professionals who need to speed through graphics-intensive applications, video editing in 4K or 8K, and complex simulations or analyses. It’s not just another laptop—it’s a powerhouse crafted to push the boundaries of what you can achieve with a portable device.

The reasons to like the 2021 MacBook Pro are numerous. The first noticeable feature is its versatility and power, thanks to the M1 Max chip, which combines incredible CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine capabilities, making it an ideal companion for almost any professional task. The stunning 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is another highlight, presenting your work with pristine clarity, vivid colors, and deep contrasts—perfect for those who value precision in their visual work. But it’s not just about raw power and visual excellence. Apple’s attention to detail extends to a seamless integration of hardware and software, ensuring that the overall experience is fast, intuitive, and satisfying.

The 2021 MacBook Pro is crafted with the future in mind, ensuring you can navigate through increasingly complex digital terrains with ease. At its core is the M1 Max chip, which is designed to boost CPU and GPU performance drastically. This chip provides up to a 10-core CPU delivering up to 2x faster performance, ensuring you can fly through professional workflows effortlessly.

The addition of a 32-core GPU gives you up to four times faster performance for graphics-intensive tasks, making it a top choice for creative professionals. Its 16-core Neural Engine delivers up to five times faster machine learning capabilities, paving the way for innovative AI-driven projects. The machine comes with up to 64GB of unified memory, ensuring all of your multitasking needs are swift and seamless. The 6-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers gives you studio-quality sound wherever you are. Combine this with an all-day 21-hour battery life, and you have a device ready to perform whenever and wherever you need.

The overall quality of the 2021 MacBook Pro is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and excellence. The build quality is robust, with the stylish Space Gray casing providing not only durability but also a sleek aesthetic appeal. The keyboard and trackpad offer a comfortable and responsive experience, ideal for long hours of editing or coding. The MacBook’s ability to cool efficiently and maintain peak performance without overheating reflects its superior engineering. Moreover, the long-term support and frequent software updates from Apple ensure that this machine remains a reliable partner for years.

• Exceptional Performance: The M1 Max chip truly transforms what you can do with a laptop.

• Outstanding Display: The 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display showcases your work with brilliant color and contrast.

• Impressive Battery Life: Up to 21 hours—ideal for on-the-go professionals.

• Capacious Storage and Memory: Up to 8TB SSD and 64GB of unified memory ensure ample room for data and efficient multitasking.

• Professional Sound System: The 6-speaker arrangement provides superior audio quality for media projects.

• Price Point: The features and performance come at a premium price, which might be prohibitive for some users.

• Port Selection: While improved over previous models, some users may still find their connectivity options limited.

• Weight: With its robust build, this MacBook Pro is heftier compared to other laptops.

Renewed 2021 Apple MacBook Pro, 14-inch, M1 Pro Chip, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Space Gray

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When it comes to the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with the Apple M1 Pro Chip (14-inch, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage), you’re looking at a powerhouse that suits a variety of professional and creative needs. Whether you’re a graphic designer, video editor, software developer, or someone who demands high-level performance from their laptop, this MacBook Pro is crafted to meet those demands. It’s the perfect companion for tasks that require substantial processing power and graphics capabilities.

We’re all about devices that pack a punch without compromising on efficiency or portability. The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the Apple M1 Pro Chip strikes a balance between performance and design. Apple has beautifully engineered this device to handle intense multitasking with ease. Its robust 32GB RAM allows you to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing a drop in speed. Integrated graphics ensure that your creative projects are rendered smoothly, and the 3.2 GHz processor speed ensures that every task is handled with precision and quickness.

At its core, this MacBook Pro is designed for professionals who require reliable performance on-the-go. Whether you’re editing complex 4K videos, developing software, or simply running your business, this MacBook is built to deliver:

• CPU Performance: The M1 Pro Chip introduces a new level of processing power. Combined with the CPU’s 8-core architecture, you’re assured fast and efficient performance.
• Display and Graphics: The display resolution offers a stunning 2560×1600 pixels and a maximum resolution of 3000×2000 pixels, providing the clarity and vibrancy needed for professional work.
• Storage and Memory: With a 512GB SSD and 32GB of DDR RAM, storage, and speed are hardly a concern, making larger file handling and serious multitasking a breeze.
• Battery Life: Being battery-powered, it allows for extended use without the constant need for charging, complementing busy professionals.
• Connectivity: Supports USB technology, enabling fast and versatile connectivity options for various peripherals.

The overall quality of this renewed MacBook Pro is exceptional, reflecting Apple’s aesthetics and functionality. The renewal process ensures you receive a product that performs like new, complete with the rigorous standards Apple is known for. With Mac OS running the show, you’ll have a seamless, stable, and intuitive user experience. Made with Space Gray aluminum, the rugged but sleek design encases a machine that feels durable yet modern in your hands.

• Performance: The M1 Pro chip delivers exceptional performance that caters to heavy-duty applications and tasks.

• Display: High-resolution display supporting excellent graphics, ideal for creators and designers.

• Storage Options: 512GB SSD offers ample storage with fast read/write speeds.

• RAM Capacity: With 32GB RAM, this MacBook manages several high-memory tasks effortlessly.

• Renewed Quality: Ensures a like-new condition that meets rigorous Apple standards.

• Price: While renewed, the price might still be steep compared to other laptops in the market.

• Port Availability: May require additional adapters for those accustomed to older connectivity options.

• Integrated Graphics: While exceptional, some users might still prefer discrete graphics for overly-intensive graphical tasks.

In this Apple MacBook Pro, you’re investing in a future-proof device that serves as an essential workhorse for your tech arsenal. Its impeccable design and groundbreaking technology let you achieve more — because it’s not just about having a laptop, it’s about having a seamless partner to power your productivity and creativity.

Renewed 2019 Apple MacBook Pro, 16-inch, Core i9, 64GB RAM, 1TB SSD – Space Gray

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The Apple 2019 MacBook Pro with the 2.3GHz Intel Core i9 is designed for professionals and creative enthusiasts alike. This powerful laptop is well-suited for tasks that demand significant processing power, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and software development. If you regularly engage in activities that require a robust machine capable of multitasking without lag, this MacBook Pro can effectively serve your needs.

Whether you’re working with high-resolution graphics or running complex computational tasks, this model offers the performance needed to keep up with demanding applications. Additionally, with its large 16-inch display, it is ideal for you if you prefer working on a bigger screen, especially in fields like digital art or graphic design.

We appreciate the Apple 2019 MacBook Pro for its blend of performance and elegance. What makes this laptop stand out is the impressive 2.3GHz Intel Core i9 8-Core processor, which ensures lightning-fast performance. This is complemented by the substantial 64GB of DDR4 RAM, making multitasking smooth and efficient.

Beyond the hardware, the display quality is exceptional. The 16″ 3072 x 1920 Retina Display, enriched with P3 Color Gamut and True Tone Technology, provides incredibly vibrant and accurate colors, which is perfect for creatives who rely on color precision. The presence of the Touch Bar and Touch ID Sensor adds a layer of convenience and security to your user experience.

The 2019 MacBook Pro is purpose-built to deliver high-end performance in a portable form factor. It is tailored to meet the demands of power users who run intensive applications. Key features include:

• 2.3 GHz Intel Core i9 8-Core Processor: Delivers unmatched speed and efficiency for heavy-duty tasks.
• 64GB of 2666 MHz DDR4 RAM: Ensures smooth operation during intensive multitasking.
• 1TB SSD Storage: Provides ample space for large files and rapid data access.
• AMD Radeon Pro 5500M GPU with 4GB GDDR6: Offers strong graphics performance ideal for rendering tasks or high-end gaming.
• 16″ Retina Display with True Tone: Ensures stunning visuals with accurate color reproduction.
• Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports: Offers versatility in connectivity and supports multiple high-resolution external displays.
• Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0: Provides reliable wireless connectivity.

The overall build quality of the Apple 2019 MacBook Pro reflects Apple’s ethos of excellence. The laptop’s unibody aluminum design not only looks sleek but also offers excellent durability. The keyboard and trackpad are responsive and user-friendly, enhancing the overall user experience. Plus, the retina display is among the best in class, making it a joy for creative work.

Performance-wise, the powerful hardware configuration ensures you won’t be slowed down, no matter the task at hand. Whether compiling code, editing motion pictures, or running virtual machines, this device tackles the challenge with ease. It lives up to the reputation of MacBook Pros as reliable workhorses in the tech ecosystem.

• Exceptional Performance: The Intel i9 processor paired with 64GB RAM supports seamless multitasking and heavy workloads.

• Stunning Large Display: Ideal for visual creators thanks to its sharpness and color accuracy.

• Ample Storage: 1TB SSD enables quick access to large files and plenty of room for all your important data.

• Superior Build Quality: The robust and elegant design inspires confidence in its durability.

• Versatile Connectivity: Four Thunderbolt 3 ports provide flexibility in peripherals and external display management.

• Price Point: This model can be quite an investment, which might be a consideration for those on a budget.

• Heavy: At 16 inches, it can be less portable compared to smaller laptops.

• Older Wi-Fi Standard: With Wi-Fi 5, it lacks the latest wireless technology available in newer models.

The 2019 MacBook Pro with an Intel i9 chip remains a strong contender for professionals seeking unparalleled performance in a sleek and sophisticated package.

Comparison of MacBook Pro Models

Let’s dive into how these MacBook Pro models stack up against each other. Are you ready to find the perfect one that fits your needs? Here’s a friendly comparison to help you decide!

Specifications Overview

Here’s a friendly table to highlight the core differences and features of each model, making it easier to see which MacBook Pro might best suit your needs:

Specification	2019 MacBook Pro (2.4GHz i9, 32GB, 512GB)	2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Max, 32GB, 1TB)	2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Max, 32GB, 1TB)	2021 MacBook Pro (M1 Pro, 32GB, 512GB)	2019 MacBook Pro (2.3GHz i9, 64GB, 1TB)
Processor	2.4GHz Intel Core i9	Apple M1 Max	Apple M1 Max	Apple M1 Pro	2.3GHz Intel Core i9
RAM	32GB	32GB	32GB	32GB	64GB
Storage	512GB SSD	1TB SSD	1TB SSD	512GB SSD	1TB SSD
Screen Size	16-inch	16-inch	16-inch	14-inch	16-inch
GPU	AMD Radeon Pro 5500M	Integrated M1 Max (32-core GPU)	Integrated M1 Max (32-core GPU)	Integrated M1 Pro	AMD Radeon Pro 5500M
Battery Life	–	Up to 17 hours	Up to 21 hours	–	–
Display Resolution	3072 x 1920	–	–	2560 x 1600	3072 x 1920
Ports	4 x Thunderbolt 3	–	–	–	4 x Thunderbolt 3
Special Features	Touch Bar, Touch ID	–	–	–	Touch Bar, Touch ID

In-Depth Comparison

Performance

1. Processor and Graphics:

   • The 2019 models with Intel Core i9 are traditional powerhouses but may fall short in energy efficiency compared to the newer M1 chips.
   • If you’re looking at maximizing your processing power, especially for graphics-intensive tasks, the 2021 MacBook Pros with the Apple M1 Max chip are your best bet. They are designed to handle demanding workloads with ease.

2. RAM & Storage:

   • While all models except the 2019 with 64GB RAM offer 32GB of RAM, those seeking more memory for multitasking will favor the 2019 MacBook Pro with 64GB RAM.
   • Storage needs are well-catered, with the 2021 models offering 1TB of SSD storage, which is twice as much as the 2019 32GB RAM model.

Display and Design

• The display quality is excellent across all models with Retina technology, but the 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR offers superior technology in some 2021 versions.
• For those who prefer portability, the 14-inch variant might be a better fit, without sacrificing performance significantly.

Battery Life

• The 2021 models boast impressive battery life, with the M1 Max model reaching up to 21 hours, making it perfect for long workdays or travel.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right MacBook Pro depends on your specific needs:

• High-End Performance Needs: Opt for the 2021 models with the M1 Max chip, especially if you need extensive graphics and processing power.
• Extreme Multitasking: Consider the 2019 MacBook Pro with 64GB RAM for memory-intensive tasks.
• Portability and Battery Life: The 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 chips will provide longevity and efficiency on the go.

We hope this comparison helps you in making a decision that’s perfect for you! If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to explore our comprehensive review of these remarkable Apple MacBook Pro models! Whether you’re a creative professional, a tech enthusiast, or someone in search of robust performance, these laptops offer a wide array of features tailored to meet various needs. Let’s wrap it up by summarizing the key points and helping you make an informed choice.

Overview of Products

• 2019 Apple MacBook Pro with 2.4GHz Intel Core i9 (16-inch, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage) in Space Gray (Renewed)
• 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip (16-inch, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) in Space Gray (Renewed)
• 2021 Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, M1 Max chip with 10‑core CPU and 32‑core GPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) – Space Gray
• 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Pro Chip (14-inch, 32GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage) in Space Gray (Renewed)
• Apple 2019 MacBook Pro with 2.3GHz Intel Core i9 (16-inch, 64GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) in Space Gray (Renewed)

Highlights of Each Model

1. Speed and Performance: The transition from Intel Core i9 to Apple’s M1 series marks a significant leap in processing power and efficiency. If performance is your top priority, the 2021 models with the M1 Max chip deliver incredible speed and are perfect for high-demand tasks like video editing.

2. Memory and Storage: With options up to 64GB RAM and 1TB SSD, these models are designed to handle heavy multitasking and provide ample storage space.

3. Display Quality: Across the board, the Retina displays on these MacBooks ensure stunning visuals, making them perfect for designers and visual creatives.

Drawbacks

• Price: These models, particularly the newer ones, come with a premium price tag, which might be a stretch for budget-conscious users.

• Port Selection: Some users have expressed the need for more versatile port options, which remains limited to USB-C/Thunderbolt 3.

• Keyboard Preferences: Although the recent MacBooks have improved keyboards, some users may still prefer more tactile feedback.

Recommendations

If you’re a professional looking for top-tier performance and are not constrained by budget, the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro models with the M1 Max chip offer unparalleled speed and efficiency that will future-proof your investment. For those in need of immense memory, the 2019 versions are a respectable choice given their robust RAM options.

However, if you’re someone who values a combination of power and cost-effectiveness and are comfortable with a slightly smaller display, the 14-inch 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro Chip might be your ideal match. It’s perfect for tech enthusiasts and professionals who desire performance without the full expense of the newer models.

Ultimately, whatever your choice, you’re investing in laptops that promise reliability and the exemplary performance that Apple is renowned for. Happy shopping!

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