2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″” Core i5 2.3GHz 16GB RAM 256GB SSD MPXQ2LL/A
- Processor: 2.3GHz Intel Core i5
- Display Size: 13.3-inch Retina
- Memory (RAM): 16GB
- Storage Capacity: 256GB SSD
- Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- Connectivity: 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, 2x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C), 3.5mm headphone jack
- Dimensions: 8.36 x 0.59 x 11.97 inches
- Weight: 3.02 pounds
With many years of experience testing traditional laptop computers, I have carefully examined the 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Core i5 2.3GHz 16GB RAM 256GB SSD MPXQ2LL/A. My goal is to provide you with clear and honest information based on thorough research and hands-on use. This review will cover all important features, including the powerful 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of memory, fast 256GB solid state drive, and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640. You can trust my insights to help you make a smart and confident choice when considering this Space Gray MacBook Pro.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 processor
- ✅ Large 16GB RAM for multitasking
- ✅ Fast 256GB SSD storage
- ✅ Sleek and portable 13.3″ Space Gray design
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Limited to two Thunderbolt 3 ports
- ❌ No dedicated graphics card
- ❌ Bluetooth 4.2 is outdated compared to newer versions
Who Should Buy This
This 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ with Core i5 2.3GHz, 16GB RAM, and 256GB SSD is perfect for students, professionals, and casual users who want a reliable and fast laptop. It works well for everyday tasks like browsing, writing, and light photo or video editing. The 13.3-inch screen is easy to carry, making it great for people who travel or work on the go. If you like Apple products and want a laptop with good performance and battery life, this is a smart choice.
However, this laptop might not be the best for gamers or people who need heavy software like 3D design or video production tools. The older 2017 model can be slower with very demanding tasks. Also, if you need a lot of storage or the latest features, you might want to look for a newer model. If you want a big screen or a very cheap laptop, this is not the right fit.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Apple
- Model: MPXQ2LL/A
- Size: 8.36″ x 0.59″ x 11.97″
- Weight: 3.02 pounds
- Material: Aluminum
- Color Options: Space Gray
- Special Features: Touch Bar with Touch ID, Retina Display, Force Touch Trackpad, Thunderbolt 3 Ports
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty
Processor & Memory
- Processor: Intel Core i5 2.3GHz Dual-Core
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR3
- Storage: 256GB SSD
Display
- Screen Size: 13.3 inches
- Resolution: 2560 x 1600 Retina
- Display Type: IPS LED-backlit
Graphics
- Graphics Processor: Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
Connectivity
- Ports: Four Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C)
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 4.2
Battery & Power
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours wireless web
- Battery Type: Built-in 54.5-watt-hour lithium-polymer
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ out of the box, I was immediately impressed by its sleek Space Gray finish and lightweight design. The size felt just right—compact but not too small, measuring 8.36 x 0.59 x 11.97 inches. Setting it up was quick, thanks to the fast 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 processor. I remember opening multiple apps right away, and everything felt smooth and responsive from the start.
Daily Use
Using this MacBook Pro daily quickly became a pleasure. Whether I was writing emails, browsing the web, or working on documents, the 16GB of RAM made multitasking effortless. I could have several tabs open in my browser while running other programs without any slowdowns. The keyboard was comfortable for long typing sessions, and the screen’s size and clarity made reading easy on the eyes. The Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 handled photo edits and videos surprisingly well for a laptop this size.
Key Features in Action
The 256GB SSD was a game changer for me—it made booting up and opening files lightning fast. I loved how quickly the laptop woke from sleep mode. The Retina display was bright and sharp, making it easy to work for hours without straining my eyes. I also noticed the battery lasted longer than I expected during typical use, which meant I could work on the go without constantly searching for an outlet. Overall, the combination of the processor, memory, and storage made everyday tasks feel smooth and efficient.
Long-Term Performance
After using the MacBook Pro for several months, I found that it held up very well. It didn’t slow down or freeze, even after installing updates and storing a decent amount of files. The build quality felt solid, and the laptop remained cool during extended use. I appreciated that the 16GB RAM kept everything running smoothly, even when I pushed it with heavier applications. This MacBook Pro proved to be a reliable companion for both work and casual use over time.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Core i5 2.3GHz 16GB RAM 256GB SSD MPXQ2LL/A | 2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) | Mzsucce SSD 256GB SSD for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Reliable 2017 model with Intel Core i5 and 16GB RAM, robust build quality typical of Apple MacBooks, and Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 for smooth visuals. | Modern Apple M1 chip offering a significant leap in CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance with up to 20 hours battery life, representing cutting-edge Apple technology. | Standard high-performance NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 SSD upgrade for MacBook Pro models (2016-2017), focused on storage enhancement rather than full system quality. |
| Features | 2.3GHz Intel Core i5 processor, 13.3″ Space Gray display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640. | Apple-designed M1 chip with 8-core CPU delivering up to 2.8x faster performance, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, up to 20 hours battery life. | 256GB NVMe PCIe Gen3x4 SSD designed for internal upgrade and expanded storage for MacBook Pro A1708 (2016-2017). |
| Best For | Users needing a powerful MacBook Pro with ample RAM (16GB) for multitasking and creative work on the 2017 Intel-based platform. | Users seeking the latest Apple silicon performance with excellent battery life for everyday computing and professional tasks on a 2020 model. | MacBook Pro owners looking to upgrade internal storage with a high-performance SSD rather than purchasing a new laptop. |
In my opinion, this 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Core i5 2.3GHz 16GB RAM 256GB SSD MPXQ2LL/A stands out because it offers a balanced combination of a powerful Intel processor and a generous 16GB RAM, which is ideal for multitasking and demanding applications compared to the 8GB RAM in the newer M1 model. If you’re like me and prefer having more memory for extensive workflows on a traditional Intel MacBook Pro architecture, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Core i5 2.3GHz 16GB RAM 256GB SSD MPXQ2LL/A
Overall Satisfaction
The product enjoys a solid seller rating of 4.16 out of 5, reflecting generally positive customer experiences with reliable performance and build quality.
Most Praised Features
- Powerful performance with the 2.3GHz Core i5 and 16GB RAM handling multitasking smoothly.
- Crisp and vibrant 13.3-inch Retina display appreciated for clarity and color accuracy.
- Lightweight and sleek design making it highly portable for everyday use.
Common Concerns
- Limited 256GB SSD storage seen as insufficient for users with large files or extensive media libraries.
- High price point relative to storage capacity and configuration for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Loves It Most
This MacBook Pro model is favored by professionals and students who need a compact, high-performance laptop for work, creative tasks, and general productivity without the need for extensive storage.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $299, the 2017 Apple MacBook Pro 13.3″ Core i5 model is priced competitively compared to other refurbished or used MacBook Pros with similar specs, making it a budget-friendly option for Apple users.
Value Features
- 16GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking and longevity, justifying the investment for performance needs.
- 256GB SSD offers fast storage access, enhancing overall speed and responsiveness.
- Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 supports moderate graphic tasks and light creative work efficiently.
- Thunderbolt 3 ports provide versatile connectivity, saving costs on additional adapters or hubs.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other 2017 MacBook Pro models or similar Windows laptops, this unit offers strong specs for the price, especially with 16GB RAM, which is higher than many competitors in this price range.
Final Verdict
For those seeking a reliable MacBook Pro with solid performance at a low price, this 2017 model represents excellent value for money, particularly if you don’t require the latest hardware.