Apple MacBook Pro 2021 Apple MacBook Pro Laptop 2021 Apple M1 Pro Review

This 2021 MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro chip is a solid workhorse that's still kicking. It's got a killer screen and enough power for most professional tasks, all wrapped up in that classic Apple build. For under a grand, it's a tempting option if you're not chasing the latest silicon.

The 10-core M1 Pro CPU is still plenty fast for daily work and creative apps, landing in the 64th percentile. The 32GB of RAM is a huge plus for multitasking. The big catch is the integrated GPU, which scores in the 18th percentile. It's fine for basic stuff, but don't expect to game or do serious 3D work. The 512GB storage is also on the smaller side.

At around $980, the value proposition is interesting. You're getting a premium Apple laptop with a great screen and a ton of RAM for less than a grand. The trade-off is you're buying older tech. The CPU is a few generations behind, and the storage is small. If those specs fit your needs, it's a decent deal.

Compared to a newer M4 MacBook Pro, you're giving up a lot of CPU and GPU performance for a much lower price. Against a Windows machine like the Lenovo ThinkPad P14s, you lose some upgradeability and raw power for the Apple ecosystem and that superior screen. The Asus Zenbook Duo offers wild dual-screen flexibility this MacBook can't touch, but the MacBook's build and screen are better. For gaming, forget it—the MSI Vector or Gigabyte AORUS will run circles around this.

Buy this if you're a business user, student, or creative pro who needs a reliable, well-built laptop with an amazing screen for everyday tasks and light creative work. Don't buy it if you need serious graphics power, lots of storage, or want to play modern games.