Discover how the 13-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar, often featuring Intel processors, SSD storage, and ample 16GB RAM, transformed the pro laptop experience—and why a refurbished MacBook Pro with this touchbar innovation is still a remarkably smart choice for discerning users looking for that macbook pro with a touch.
Remember when Apple decided to shake things up with the MacBook Pro? They didn’t just give us a new MacBook Pro; they introduced a feature that got everyone talking: the Touch Bar.
This sleek, touch-sensitive strip replaced the traditional function keys on many MacBook Pro models, offering dynamic controls that adapted to whatever you were doing. Whether you were a creative professional working on a 16-inch MacBook Pro or someone who valued peak productivity on a 13-inch model, the Touch Bar aimed to make your interaction with your laptop more intuitive and efficient.
We’re talking about a real redesign here, often powered by robust Intel processors or later the groundbreaking M1, M2, and even whispers of M3 and M4 capabilities in newer generation MacBooks (though the Touch Bar itself was phased out before these).
This wasn’t just another Apple MacBook; it was a statement, a glimpse into a more interactive future, complete with speedy SSD storage and a versatile keyboard. Many macbook pro models from 2016 onwards, including the macbook pro 16 and macbook pro 13-inch, embraced this touchbar.
Even as we look towards 2024 and beyond, with Apple’s MacBook Pro line evolving, the legacy of the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar remains a fascinating chapter, especially with the appeal of a refurbished MacBook Pro that still offers this unique pro with a touch bar feature.
- SPEED OF LIGHTNESS MacBook Air with the M4 chip lets you blaze through work and play. With Apple Intelligence,* up to 18 hours of battery life,* and an incredibly portable design, you can take on anything, anywhere.
- SUPERCHARGED BY M4 The Apple M4 chip brings even more speed and fluidity to everything you do, like working between multiple apps, editing videos, or playing graphically demanding games...
What Exactly Was the Apple MacBook Pro Touch Bar?
So, what was all the fuss about with the MacBook Pro Touch Bar? Imagine the top row of your keyboard, where the function keys usually live. Now, picture that replaced by a thin, high-resolution OLED touchscreen – that, my friends, was the Touch Bar.
This wasn’t just a static display; it was a dynamic, touch-sensitive strip that changed based on the application you were using, or even what you were doing within that app on your Apple MacBook Pro.
This innovative touch-enabled interface aimed to make interacting with your MacBook Pro (whether it was a 13-inch MacBook Pro or a larger 16-inch beast) more fluid and context-aware.
Instead of memorizing keyboard shortcuts for various function buttons, the Touch Bar presented relevant controls right at your fingertips, effectively transforming the traditional function key row. It was a bold redesign for the pro model laptop, and for a time, it was a defining feature of the new MacBook Pro lineup, often paired with Intel processors and fast SSD storage.
The Magic Unveiled: How the Touch Bar Redefined Your Workflow
Let’s talk about the real magic. How did the MacBook Pro Touch Bar actually change the game for your daily grind and creative bursts on your Apple MacBook? Well, it was all about intuitive control and productivity.
The Touch Bar put contextual tools right where you needed them, adapting to apps like Photos, Final Cut Pro, Mail, and Safari. Imagine scrubbing through video timelines, quickly accessing formatting options, or even seeing predictive text suggestions, all without moving your hands far from the keyboard.
This touchbar was designed to streamline tasks. For instance, when composing an email, you might get quick formatting buttons or even suggestions for recipients. In Safari, your favorite websites could appear as tiny icons for instant access.
For those using a MacBook Pro 13-inch or the more expansive macbook pro 16-inch for creative work, the Touch Bar offered precision controls for editing tools, color pickers, and more, enhancing the capabilities of the Retina display with True Tone technology.
This wasn’t just about replacing function keys; it was about creating a seamless user experience and boosting efficiency on your pro laptop.
MacBook Pro Models That Featured the Iconic Touch Bar: From 13-inch to 16-inch
Apple first introduced the Touch Bar in October 2016, making it a signature feature on most new MacBook Pro editions. You could find this innovative strip on both the 13-inch MacBook Pro and the 15-inch (later 16-inch) MacBook Pro models. These macbook pro with touch bar machines were the flagships, representing Apple’s vision for the future of the pro laptop.
Over the years, several versions of MacBook saw updates while retaining the Touch Bar. We saw it on Intel-powered machines, including those with Intel Core i5 and the powerful Intel Core i7 processors. Later, even the first Apple silicon MacBook Pro 13 with the M1 chip, and subsequently the M2 chip (updated in 2022), kept the Touch Bar alive, offering a unique blend of new processor architecture and this distinctive interface.
The introduction of the Touch Bar spanned several years and various configurations, including options with 256GB, 512GB SSD, and even 1TB SSD storage, and 8GB or 16GB RAM. So, if you’re looking for a MacBook Pro Touch Bar model, there’s a good range from 2016 up to the M2 13-inch model which was discontinued in October 2023.
- LEAN. MEAN. M3 MACHINE With a powerful 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, the blazing-fast MacBook Air with M3 chip is a superportable laptop that sails through work and play.
- BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCEApple Intelligence is the personal intelligence system that helps you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly. With groundbreaking privacy protections, it gives you peace of mind that no one else can access your datanot even Apple.*...
Notable Touch Bar Generations and Sizes
The first MacBook Pro generation to sport the Touch Bar was a significant leap. You had the option of a more portable 13-inch macbook pro or the larger, more powerful 15-inch model, which eventually grew to a 16-inch model.
These macbook models weren’t just about the touchbar; they also brought in other changes like the butterfly keyboard (which had its own story) and a focus on USB-C ports.
As Apple refined its MacBooks, the Touch Bar persisted. For instance, the MacBook Pro 13 saw several iterations with the Touch Bar, including updates in 2023 that featured the M2 chip.
Even when the larger 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models underwent a major redesign in 2021, bringing back physical function keys, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2 continued to offer the Touch Bar experience for a while longer, making it the last pro model standing with this feature. This makes specific refurbished MacBook Pro units quite unique.
Power and Performance: Beyond the Touch Bar – Intel, SSD, and More
While the Touch Bar was often the headline feature, these MacBook Pro laptops were serious powerhouses underneath. Many of the MacBook Pro Touch Bar models, especially in the earlier years (2016-2019), were equipped with capable Intel processors, ranging from the Intel Core i5 to the high-performance Intel Core i7.
This ensured that these macbooks could handle demanding tasks, from video editing on the Retina display with True Tone to complex coding projects.
Furthermore, SSD storage was standard, offering blazing-fast boot times and application loading. You could find configurations with 256GB, 512GB SSD, or even a massive 1TB SSD for those needing ample space.
Paired with options like 8GB, 16GB RAM, or even up to 48GB in some high-end 16-inch model configurations, these Apple MacBook Pro machines were built for productivity and professional workloads.
The GPU performance was also a key consideration, especially for the 15-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, crucial for creative professionals.
The Evolution and Eventual Redesign: Why Apple Moved On
Change is constant in tech, and the Touch Bar story is no exception. While innovative, the touch-enabled strip wasn’t universally loved. Some users missed the tactile feel of traditional function keys, and the utility varied depending on app support.
So, in 2021, when Apple introduced new MacBook Pro models – the stunning 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M1 Pro and M1 Max chips – they featured a significant redesign. This included bringing back a full row of physical function keys, MagSafe charging, and more ports.
This shift indicated that Apple was listening to professional user feedback. However, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with the M1 chip (released in November 2020) and later the M2 chip (released in June 2022) retained the Touch Bar, making it the last bastion for this feature. Eventually, in October 2023, with the announcement of the M3 family of chips and a new base 14-inch MacBook Pro, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar was officially discontinued.
This marked the end of an era for the Touch Bar in new MacBook Pro devices, but its legacy lives on, especially in the refurbished macbook pro market.
- Renewed products look and work like new. These pre-owned products have been inspected and tested by Amazon-qualified suppliers, which typically perform a full diagnostic test, replacement of any defective parts, and a thorough cleaning process. Packaging and accessories may be generic. All products on Amazon Renewed come with a minimum 90-day supplier-backed warranty.
- 2.9GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor with Turbo Boost up to 3.9GHz
- 16GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 memory
- 512GB SSD storage
Is a MacBook Pro with Touch Bar Still a Smart Buy in 2024/2025?
Now for the big question: should you still consider a MacBook Pro with Touch Bar today, especially as we head into 2024 and look towards 2025? The answer is a resounding YES, particularly if you’re looking at refurbished MacBook Pro options.
These macbooks can offer incredible value. You’re getting a premium Apple MacBook Pro with a unique, dynamic interface, often at a fraction of the cost of the latest MacBook Pro models.
Think about it: you can snag a 13-inch MacBook Pro or a 16-inch MacBook Pro with features like a brilliant Retina display, fast SSD storage (maybe a 512GB SSD or even 1TB SSD), a capable Intel Core i7 or an efficient M1/M2 processor, and of course, that distinctive touchbar, all for a much more accessible price.
For many, the Touch Bar is genuinely a productivity enhancer, offering quick access to tools and shortcuts. If you’re someone who appreciates this kind of interactive element, or if you’re a collector of Apple’s innovative designs, a MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar is a compelling choice.
Plus, many of these MacBook Pro models still receive macOS updates, ensuring they remain secure and functional for years to come. The MacBook Pro 13 with M2 and Touch Bar, for example, is a relatively recent machine.
Maximizing Your Touch Bar: Tips, Tricks, and Customization
If you do own or decide to get a MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, you’ll want to make the most of it! One of the best things about the Touch Bar is its customizability. You can often tailor the Control Strip (the rightmost part of the Touch Bar) to include the functions you use most, like screen lock, Siri, or media controls.
Dive into System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions) under “Keyboard” to explore these options.
Many apps offer specific Touch Bar integrations. In Safari, it can show your open tabs or bookmarks. In Photos, it can display thumbnails for easy scrolling or editing tools. In apps like GarageBand, it can even turn into a mini musical instrument or control panel.
Don’t be afraid to explore! The more you use it, the more you’ll discover how this touch-sensitive strip can genuinely speed up your workflow on your Apple MacBook Pro.
And remember, even if an app doesn’t have deep Touch Bar support, it will still display the standard system controls and the function key row (or an expanded Control Strip), so you’re never losing out on basic functionality. It’s all about enhancing your seamless user experience on your chosen pro laptop.
- 16GB Ram | 512GB SSD
- Intel "Core i7" processor (6700HQ)
FAQ
What are the main features of the new MacBook Pro with Touch Bar?
The new MacBook Pro with Touch Bar features a Liquid Retina XDR display, a Magic Keyboard, and the latest M2 or M3 chips, depending on the model. It comes in both 14-inch and 16-inch sizes and offers various SSD storage options up to 1TB.
How does the battery life compare between the MacBook Pro 14-inch and 16-inch models?
The battery life on both the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models is impressive, with the 14-inch model lasting up to 17 hours and the 16-inch model lasting up to 21 hours on a single charge, making them excellent choices for users needing long battery life.
What are the differences between the MacBook Pro 13-inch and the MacBook Pro 14-inch?
The MacBook Pro 14-inch offers a more advanced M1 or M2 chip, a Liquid Retina XDR display, and improved graphics performance compared to the MacBook Pro 13-inch, which typically features an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor. Additionally, the 14-inch model includes the Touch Bar and a better thermal design.
Can you explain the Touch Bar on the new MacBook Pro?
The Touch Bar is a thin touchscreen strip located above the keyboard that provides dynamic controls tailored to the application you are using. It replaces the traditional row of function keys and allows for customizable shortcuts, enhancing productivity on the new MacBook Pro models.
What configurations are available for RAM and SSD storage on the MacBook Pro?
The MacBook Pro offers various configurations, including options for 8GB, 16GB, and up to 48GB of RAM. For SSD storage, options range from 256GB to 1TB, allowing users to select the best configuration for their needs.
Is the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar suitable for gaming?
Yes, the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is suitable for gaming, especially the models equipped with M1, M2, or M3 chips, which provide powerful GPUs. However, for the best gaming experience, it’s recommended to check the specific game requirements and settings.
How does the MacBook Pro perform in terms of thermal management?
The MacBook Pro features an advanced thermal design that keeps the laptop cool during heavy workloads. With the efficient M1, M2, or M3 chips, users can expect high performance without the laptop overheating, making it ideal for intensive tasks.
What color options are available for the new MacBook Pro models?
The new MacBook Pro models are available in two elegant finishes: Space Gray and Silver. The Space Black option offers a sleek, modern look that appeals to many users.
What advantages does the Liquid Retina XDR display provide?
The Liquid Retina XDR display on the MacBook Pro offers exceptional brightness, color accuracy, and contrast ratio, making it perfect for creative professionals. It supports ProMotion technology for smoother scrolling and responsiveness, enhancing the overall user experience.
- Retina display; 13.3-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit display with IPS technology; 2560-by-1600 native resolution
- 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor | Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640
- 720p FaceTime HD camera
- 8GB Memory | 256GB Solid State Drive
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi wireless networking; IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n compatible | Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- System Ram Type: ddr3_sdram
- Included Components: Charging Cable
