2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip, 16-inch, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD Storage (QWERTY English) Silver (Renewed)
- Processor: Apple M1 Max 10-core CPU
- Graphics: 32-core GPU for high-performance graphics
- Memory (RAM): 32GB unified memory
- Storage: 2TB SSD
- Display Size: 16-inch Retina display
- Battery Life: Up to 21 hours video playback
- Weight: 5.9 pounds
- Color: Silver (Renewed)
With many years of experience testing traditional laptop computers, I have carefully reviewed the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with the powerful Apple M1 Max chip. This review is based on thorough research and hands-on testing to provide you with honest and clear information. I understand how important it is to choose the right laptop, especially one with advanced features like a 10-core CPU and 16-core Neural Engine. My goal is to help you make a confident decision by sharing detailed insights about its performance, design, and value. Trust this review to guide you through the strengths and weaknesses of this renewed MacBook Pro model.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful Apple M1 Max chip
- ✅ 10-core CPU for fast performance
- ✅ 32-core GPU for excellent graphics
- ✅ Large 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD storage
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Higher price point
- ❌ Limited port variety
- ❌ Renewed condition may show minor wear
Who Should Buy This
This 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip is perfect for creative professionals. If you work with video editing, graphic design, or music production, this laptop gives you fast speed and great power. The 16-inch screen is big and clear, making it easy to see your work. With 32GB of RAM and 2TB of storage, you can run many apps at once and save lots of files without worry. It is also great for students or anyone who needs a strong and reliable laptop for school or work.
If you only need a laptop for simple tasks like browsing the internet or writing documents, this MacBook Pro might be more than you need. It is also quite expensive, so if you are on a tight budget, you might want to look for a cheaper option. Additionally, if you need a laptop with a touchscreen or more ports, this model may not be the best fit for you.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Apple
- Model: MacBook Pro 2021
- Processor: Apple M1 Max Chip
- Display Size: 16-inch Retina Display
- RAM: 32GB
- Storage: 2TB SSD
- Keyboard Layout: QWERTY English
- Color: Silver
- Dimensions: 1.0″ x 14.01″ x 9.77″
- Weight: 5.9 pounds
- Material: Aluminum Unibody
- Special Features: Liquid Retina XDR Display, Six-speaker sound system, Studio-quality mics, MagSafe 3 charging port, Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Warranty: Renewed product warranty (varies by seller)
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with the M1 Max chip, I was immediately impressed by its sleek silver design and solid build. The laptop felt sturdy yet surprisingly light given its 16-inch size. Setting it up was smooth and quick, and the QWERTY English keyboard was comfortable to type on right away. I started running some of my usual apps and noticed the device booted up almost instantly, which made me excited to see what it could really do.
Daily Use
Using this MacBook Pro daily was a joy. Whether I was editing photos, watching videos, or juggling multiple tabs and apps, the performance was consistently fast and smooth. The 32GB RAM really helped when I had several heavy programs open at the same time without any lag. I appreciated how quiet the laptop stayed too, even during intense tasks. The 2TB SSD gave me plenty of space for all my files and projects, and loading times were almost non-existent.
Key Features in Action
The M1 Max chip truly stands out. The 10-core CPU made multitasking and running professional software feel effortless and quick. I noticed how the 16-core Neural Engine sped up machine learning tasks, which was a big help when I worked on some AI-related projects. The graphics performance was impressive as well, making video editing and graphic design smooth and detailed. Overall, these features made my work flow faster and less frustrating.
Long-Term Performance
After using the MacBook Pro for several weeks, the performance stayed strong with no slowdowns or overheating issues. The battery life was excellent, lasting through long work sessions without needing a charge. The laptop’s responsiveness remained consistent, and the build quality showed no signs of wear. It’s clear that this device is built to handle heavy workloads over time, making it a reliable companion for any professional.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip, 16-inch, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD Storage (Renewed) | 2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) | (CTO) Apple MacBook Pro 16-in M4 Pro 14C CPU / 20C GPU, 48GB, 1TB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-end professional-grade laptop with Apple M1 Max chip delivering massive CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance; 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD ensure smooth multitasking and ample storage. | Mid-range performance with Apple M1 chip; 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD suitable for everyday tasks and moderate workflows; longest Mac battery life (up to 20 hours). | Top-tier configuration with latest M4 Pro chip, 48GB RAM, and 1TB SSD; outstanding display quality with Liquid Retina XDR and high brightness; ideal for demanding creative professionals. |
| Features | Apple M1 Max chip with 10-core CPU (up to 3.7x faster), 16-core Neural Engine (up to 11x faster machine learning), 16-inch display, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD Storage. | Apple M1 chip with 8-core CPU (up to 2.8x faster), 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, up to 20 hours battery life. | M4 Pro chip with 14-core CPU and 20-core GPU, 48GB RAM, 1TB SSD, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and 1600 nits peak brightness. |
| Best For | Creative professionals and power users needing exceptional performance for pro workflows, video editing, and machine learning tasks. | Everyday users and professionals requiring reliable performance with excellent battery life for general productivity. | High-end professionals demanding the latest hardware for intensive video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming with superb display quality. |
In my opinion, this 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip, 16-inch, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD Storage (Renewed) stands out because it offers a remarkable balance of cutting-edge performance and generous memory and storage capacity at a competitive level. While the 2020 M1 MacBook Pro is excellent for everyday tasks with outstanding battery life, it cannot match the power needed for professional workflows. On the other hand, the latest M4 Pro MacBook Pro provides even higher specs and display quality but at a higher cost and newer release. If you’re like me and prefer a proven powerhouse with ample RAM and storage for intensive creative tasks without jumping to the newest model, this renewed M1 Max MacBook Pro is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Max Chip, 16-inch, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD Storage (QWERTY English) Silver (Renewed)
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction, appreciating the powerful performance and sleek design, though some note minor issues typical of renewed products.
Most Praised Features
- Exceptional processing speed and graphics performance thanks to the M1 Max chip.
- Large 16-inch Retina display with vibrant colors and sharp resolution.
- Ample 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD providing smooth multitasking and fast storage access.
Common Concerns
- Some users report minor cosmetic wear consistent with a renewed device.
- Price remains high even for a renewed model, causing hesitation for budget-conscious buyers.
Who Loves It Most
Creative professionals, video editors, and power users who need top-tier performance and a large, high-quality display appreciate this MacBook Pro the most.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The renewed 2021 Apple MacBook Pro with M1 Max chip and top-tier specs is priced competitively compared to new models with similar configurations. While still a premium investment, the cost reflects its high-end performance and storage, making it fair for professionals seeking power without paying full retail.
Value Features
- Apple M1 Max chip delivers exceptional CPU and GPU performance, allowing for smooth multitasking and heavy-duty workflows, justifying the premium.
- 32GB RAM ensures seamless handling of large files and intensive applications, enhancing productivity for creative professionals.
- 2TB SSD offers ample, fast storage, reducing load times and improving overall efficiency, which is valuable for data-heavy tasks.
- Renewed condition offers significant savings compared to brand-new units without compromising on performance or reliability.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other high-end laptops in the same category, this MacBook Pro stands out for its optimized hardware-software integration and superior graphics capabilities, often at a similar or slightly lower price point, especially in renewed condition.
Final Verdict
If you require a powerful, reliable machine for professional use and prefer macOS, this renewed MacBook Pro offers excellent value for money, balancing high performance with cost savings.