Buying a Used M1 Pro MacBook Pro: What to Check

Updated September 2026: in late 2022, as M2 Pro chips approached, M1 Pro MacBook Pro models were being discounted heavily, and I argued they were better value than the M2 MacBook Air. I have rewritten it as a guide to buying an M1 Pro MacBook Pro second-hand or refurbished.

With the M2 Pro announcement expected, the M1 Pro MacBook Pro was widely available with large discounts. At the time I saw offers of around 400 US dollars off, bringing the 14-inch model to about 1,599 dollars. That made it look better value than the new M2 MacBook Air, with stronger performance, a 120Hz ProMotion mini-LED display, and 16 GB of memory with 512 GB of storage in the base model. I expected that configuration to keep it supported for years.

Why is the M1 Pro still a good laptop?

The 14-inch and 16-inch M1 Pro models brought the features that later MacBook Pros kept: the mini-LED display, HDMI, an SD card slot, MagSafe and a full-size function key row. Performance remains strong for photo and video editing and development work.

How does it compare with a newer MacBook Air?

A newer Air can match or beat it on single-core speed and is lighter. The M1 Pro still offers a better display, more ports, fans for sustained workloads and often more memory for the price. Choose based on which of those you need.

What should you check before buying used?

• Battery condition and cycle count in System Settings.
• Display for marks, bright spots or blooming on dark screens.
• Configuration: memory and storage, since neither can be upgraded.
• Activation Lock: the seller must remove it from their Apple ID and Find My.
• Ports and keyboard, tested with your own devices.

How long will it get macOS updates?

Apple does not publish end dates. M1-series Macs have been supported for several years so far, but a newer chip will likely be supported longer. Check the current macOS compatibility list.

Is refurbished better than a private sale?

Refurbished from Apple or a reputable seller costs more but includes a warranty and a checked battery. A private sale can be cheaper, but inspect the laptop in person and meet somewhere safe.

Keep reading

• M1 MacBook Air in Hindsight: Was It Worth Buying?
• M1 Air, M1 Pro or Wait for M2? How It Played Out
• iPad 9th Generation: Disappointing Then, Good Value Later?