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Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB

Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB

4.6· 20 ratings

Last price we saw

$210.00at Kontraste, last seen Oct 30

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Our take on the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB

The 13-inch MacBook Pro Retina with a 3.1GHz dual-core i5, 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD is one of Apple's last Intel-era 13-inch Pros. It pairs a 2560 x 1600 Retina display with a slim aluminum body and USB-C ports. The 512GB drive makes it more usable than the base 128GB or 256GB versions. It is a used or refurbished machine now, so condition and battery health matter more than the spec sheet.

Best forStudents and office workers who want a light MacBuyers who need macOS on a budgetPhoto and document work, not heavy video editingPeople who prefer a physical function row over the Touch Bar
Pros
  • Sharp 2560 x 1600 Retina display
  • Light, sturdy aluminum body
  • 512GB SSD is roomy for the class
  • USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports are fast and versatile
  • Runs macOS well for everyday tasks
Cons
  • Dual-core Intel i5 is slow by current standards
  • 8GB RAM cannot be upgraded later
  • Intel integrated graphics struggle with heavy editing
  • Battery is likely worn on used units
  • No USB-A, HDMI or SD card slot without adapters

Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB prices at every store

  • KontrasteCheck price at Kontraste

Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB price history

Lowest price we've seen: $210.00 on Oct 30 at Kontraste. Tracked across 1 store since Oct 30.

What reviewers say

Owners rate it well as a light everyday Mac, with the screen and build quality standing out. Complaints center on the dual-core chip, 8GB RAM and battery wear on older units.

Pros
  • Bright, sharp Retina screen
  • Solid, portable build
  • Fast SSD and Thunderbolt 3
  • Quiet in normal use
Cons
  • Slows down with many browser tabs or apps
  • Gets warm under load
  • Battery life drops with age
  • Limited ports without a hub

Specifications

Resolution
2560 x 1600
Operating System
Mac OS
Processor Brand
Intel CPU
Graphics Processor
Intel GPU
With Retina Display
Yes
Number Of Cores
Dual Core
Color
Space Gray
Available Ports
USB-C
Drive Capacity
512 GB drive
Screen Size
13 inches
Installed Memory
8 GB RAM
Processor Speed
3.1 GHz CPU

Questions and answers

Is the 3.1GHz i5 model worth it over the base 2.3GHz version?
Yes, if the price gap is small. The 3.1GHz chip is faster and the 512GB SSD avoids the storage squeeze of the base model. Check battery cycle count before buying.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage?
No. The 8GB RAM is soldered and the SSD is not a standard user-replaceable part on this model. Buy the configuration you need up front.
Is it good enough for video editing or gaming?
Only for light work. The dual-core i5 and Intel integrated graphics handle short 1080p edits but struggle with 4K timelines and modern games. It suits documents, browsing and photo editing.
What ports does it have?
It has USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports only, plus a headphone jack. You will need a USB-C hub or adapters for USB-A, HDMI or SD cards.
What should I check on a used unit?
Check battery cycle count and condition, screen for delamination or dead pixels, and that the SSD and keyboard work. Confirm macOS version support and whether it is still covered.
When is it cheapest?
Prices on Intel MacBooks tend to fall around back-to-school and holiday sales and when Apple Silicon models are discounted. Compare across stores before buying.
What do buyers say about the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch Retina 3.1GHz i5 8GB?
Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 20 ratings.

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