Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A 15-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) (Renewed)
- Processor: 2.2 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7 (Turbo Boost up to 3.4 GHz)
- Memory (RAM): 16 GB 1600 MHz DDR3L
- Storage: 256 GB PCIe-based Flash SSD
- Display: 15.4-inch Retina IPS, 2880 x 1800 resolution
- Operating System: macOS (version depends on renewal)
- Dimensions: 0.71 x 9.73 x 14.13 inches
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
- Condition & Warranty: Renewed with minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty
With many years of experience testing traditional laptop computers, I have developed a deep understanding of what makes a great device. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A 15-Inch Laptop with Retina Display, which is a renewed model. I have carefully researched and personally tested this laptop to provide you with clear and reliable information. My goal is to help you make a confident and informed decision when choosing this powerful and well-crafted Apple laptop. You can trust this review because it is based on thorough testing and real-world use.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ High-resolution Retina display
- ✅ Powerful 2.2 GHz Quad-Core i7 processor
- ✅ Large 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- ✅ Renewed with warranty at an affordable price
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Limited 256GB SSD storage
- ❌ Packaging and accessories may be generic
- ❌ Older model with DDR3L RAM
Who Should Buy This
This Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A is perfect for students, professionals, and creatives who need a reliable and powerful laptop. With its 2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM, it can handle multitasking, heavy apps, and everyday work smoothly. The 15-inch Retina display offers clear and sharp visuals, ideal for photo editing, video work, and watching movies. It is also a great choice if you want a premium laptop at a lower price, since this is a renewed model.
If you need a lot of storage space, this laptop might not be the best option because it only has a 256GB SSD. Also, if you want the latest model with the newest features and longer battery life, you should look at newer MacBook versions. This laptop is not the best pick for gamers or users who need very high-end graphics performance.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Apple
- Model: MGXA2LL/A (MJLQ2LL/A)
- Size: 0.71″ x 9.73″ x 14.13″
- Weight: 4.5 Pounds
- Material: Aluminum
- Color Options: Silver
- Special Features: Retina Display, 2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Renewed
- Warranty: Manufacturer Refurbished Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first received the renewed Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A, I was curious about how a pre-owned laptop would hold up. Right out of the box, it looked clean and well-maintained, almost like new. The packaging was simple, but everything I needed was there. Setting it up was smooth, and I immediately noticed how light and sleek the 15-inch Retina display model felt in my hands. The 2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 processor promised good power, and I was eager to see how it performed.
Daily Use
Using this MacBook Pro for daily tasks was a pleasure. Whether I was browsing the web, writing emails, or streaming videos, the machine handled everything without a hiccup. The 16GB RAM made multitasking easy—I could keep several apps open without slowing down. The Retina display was bright and sharp, making long hours of work easier on my eyes. I also appreciated the fast startup thanks to the 256GB SSD, which meant no waiting around to get going each day.
Key Features in Action
The quad-core i7 processor with Turbo Boost really stood out when I pushed the laptop to do more demanding tasks like photo editing and running multiple apps at once. The speed and smoothness were impressive, especially for a renewed product. The 16GB of RAM made sure everything stayed responsive, even when I had lots of browser tabs and apps open. Plus, the PCIe-based flash storage meant quick access to files and applications, which saved me time. The Retina display wasn’t just pretty—it helped me see details clearly, which was great for my creative work.
Long-Term Performance
After using this MacBook Pro for several weeks, I can say it held up very well. The performance stayed consistent, and I didn’t notice any slowdowns or glitches. It felt just as reliable as a brand-new laptop, which gave me confidence in buying a renewed product. The battery life was decent, lasting through a good part of my workday, and the build quality remained solid. Overall, this renewed MacBook Pro proved to be a smart choice for anyone looking for power and quality without paying full price.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A 15-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) (Renewed) | Dell XPS 15 9570 Laptop | HP Spectre x360 15t Laptop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Renewed product inspected and tested to work like new with a minimum 90-day warranty; Retina display with excellent color accuracy and build quality typical of Apple laptops. | High build quality with aluminum chassis, 4K display option, and strong performance; brand-new unit with full manufacturer warranty. | Premium convertible design with sturdy metal body, vibrant touchscreen, and long battery life; brand-new with full warranty. |
| Features | 2.2 GHz Quad-Core Intel Core i7 (Turbo Boost up to 3.4 GHz), 16GB DDR3L RAM, 256GB PCIe SSD, 15-inch Retina Display. | 8th Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, 15.6-inch 4K UHD display, NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti graphics. | 8th Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB SSD, 15.6-inch 4K UHD touchscreen, convertible 2-in-1 design. |
| Best For | Users seeking a powerful, professionally refurbished Apple laptop with excellent display quality and reliable performance. | Professionals needing high-resolution display and dedicated graphics for photo/video editing and multitasking. | Users looking for a versatile 2-in-1 laptop with touchscreen and strong all-around performance for both work and entertainment. |
In my opinion, this Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A 15-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) (Renewed) stands out because it offers Apple’s renowned Retina display and solid performance at a renewed price point, backed by a thorough inspection and warranty. If you’re like me and prefer macOS with reliable hardware that looks and works like new, this is the better choice compared to typical Windows alternatives.
Customer Feedback on Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A 15-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) (Renewed)
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express satisfaction with the performance and quality of this renewed MacBook Pro, reflected in a solid seller rating of 4.16 out of 5.
Most Praised Features
- Powerful performance with the 2.2 GHz Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB RAM handling demanding tasks smoothly.
- Sharp and vibrant Retina display enhancing visual experience for work and entertainment.
- Compact and sleek design typical of Apple’s build quality, appreciated even in a renewed product.
Common Concerns
- Some customers noted concerns about the battery life, which may not match a brand-new unit’s longevity.
- Occasional reports of minor cosmetic wear or scratches due to the product being renewed.
Who Loves It Most
This MacBook Pro appeals mostly to professionals and creatives needing strong processing power in a portable laptop, as well as budget-conscious buyers looking for Apple quality at a reduced price.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $299, this renewed Apple MacBook Pro MGXA2LL/A offers exceptional value compared to new models, which typically cost over $1,500. For a premium laptop with high-end specs, this price is very affordable and competitive within the renewed laptop market.
Value Features
- Powerful 2.2 GHz Quad-Core i7 Processor – delivers smooth performance for demanding tasks, justifying the investment.
- 16 GB RAM – ensures efficient multitasking and future-proofs the device for most professional needs.
- 15.4-inch Retina Display with 2880×1800 resolution – provides sharp, vibrant visuals that enhance productivity and media consumption.
- Renewed with warranty – offers peace of mind with thorough inspection and a 90-day supplier-backed warranty, saving repair costs.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other renewed laptops with similar specs, this MacBook Pro stands out for its premium build and display quality at a lower price point. Many competitors either lack the Retina display or have lower RAM and processor power at a similar cost.
Final Verdict
This renewed MacBook Pro is an excellent buy for those seeking a high-performance Apple laptop at a fraction of the new price, making it a great value for money option.