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Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch Core i7 2.6 Dual Graphics 16GB RAM ME874LL/A

Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch Core i7 2.6 Dual Graphics 16GB RAM ME874LL/A

Last price we saw

$698.00at Wellbots, last seen Oct 30

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Our take on the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch Core i7 2.6 Dual Graphics 16GB RAM ME874LL/A

The ME874LL/A is a mid-2012 15-inch MacBook Pro with a quad-core Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, a 1TB drive and dual graphics switching between Intel integrated and NVIDIA discrete GPUs. Its standout is the 2880x1800 Retina display, sharp for its era, plus a built-in SuperDrive and full-size Ethernet and FireWire ports that later Retina models dropped. It is a used-market machine now: Apple ended macOS support for it years ago, so check the latest price against other 2012-2015 Retina 15-inch listings before buying.

Best forBuyers who want a cheap Retina-screen Mac for writing and web useOwners of older FireWire or optical-media gearTinkerers comfortable with used laptops and battery replacementA secondary machine for light photo editing
Pros
  • Sharp 2880x1800 Retina display
  • Quad-core Core i7 with 16GB RAM handles everyday multitasking
  • Built-in SuperDrive, Ethernet, FireWire 800 and MagSafe
  • User-replaceable battery, RAM and drive, unlike later Retina models
  • Dual graphics switch automatically to save power
Cons
  • No macOS updates; stuck on an old, unsupported release
  • Heavy and thick by modern standards, around 5.6 lb
  • Aging battery likely needs replacement
  • NVIDIA GPU has known solder and failure issues on this generation
  • No USB-C or Thunderbolt 3

Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch Core i7 2.6 Dual Graphics 16GB RAM ME874LL/A prices at every store

  • WellbotsCheck price at Wellbots

Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch Core i7 2.6 Dual Graphics 16GB RAM ME874LL/A price history

Lowest price we've seen: $698.00 on Oct 30 at Wellbots. Tracked across 1 store since Oct 30.

What reviewers say

Owners remember the mid-2012 Retina 15-inch as a fast, well-built workhorse with a great screen for its time. The common complaints now are age-related: battery wear, GPU failures and the end of software support.

Pros
  • Excellent Retina display
  • Solid aluminum build
  • Easy RAM and drive upgrades
  • Quiet in everyday use
Cons
  • Graphics failures reported over time
  • Battery degrades with age
  • Runs hot under load
  • Heavy to carry

Specifications

Operating System
Mac OS
Processor Brand
Intel CPU
Graphics Processor
Intel GPU, NVIDIA GPU
With Retina Display
Yes
Number Of Cores
Quad Core
Drive Capacity
1 TB drive
Screen Size
15 inches
Installed Memory
16 GB RAM
Processor Speed
3.8 GHz CPU

Questions and answers

Is this MacBook Pro still worth buying?
Only as a cheap secondary machine for browsing, writing and light photo work. It no longer gets macOS updates, so don't rely on it for current software or security-sensitive tasks.
Can it run the latest macOS?
No. Apple dropped support for the mid-2012 non-Retina and Retina 15-inch models years ago, so it tops out on an old release. Some owners use patchers, but those are unofficial and can break.
How does it compare with the 2015 Retina 15-inch?
The 2015 model is lighter, has a faster GPU, a Force Touch trackpad and newer macOS support. This 2012 model wins only on price and its built-in optical drive and Ethernet.
What's in the box?
Expect the laptop and a MagSafe power adapter from most used sellers. Check the listing for the charger, since batteries and adapters are often missing or worn on machines this old.
Is the battery replaceable?
Yes. Unlike later Retina models, the battery is held with screws and is user-replaceable, and replacement kits are still sold. Budget for one if the listing shows high cycle counts.
When is it cheapest?
Prices on 2012 Retina 15-inch models tend to dip after each new MacBook launch and during back-to-school and holiday sales. Compare listings across stores rather than buying the first one you see.

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