Considering a MacBook Pro upgrade? The choice between the 2020 and 2021 models can be a tough one. Both offer exceptional performance and Apple’s signature build quality, but subtle differences might sway your decision.
The 2021 MacBook Pro brought significant changes, especially with the introduction of the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, promising a leap in power and efficiency. Meanwhile, the 2020 models, while still potent, represent a different era of Apple’s silicon journey.
This comparison dives deep into what sets these two generations apart. We’ll explore performance benchmarks, display technology, port selection, and battery life to help you determine which MacBook Pro aligns best with your needs and budget.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 2020 MacBook Pro | 2021 MacBook Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 13-inch | 14-inch & 16-inch |
| Display Technology | Retina Display | Liquid Retina XDR Display |
| Processor | Intel Core i5/i7 | Apple M1 Pro/M1 Max |
| RAM | 8GB/16GB | 16GB/32GB/64GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD – 1TB SSD | 512GB SSD – 8TB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Plus Graphics | Integrated GPU (M1 Pro/Max) |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 3 | 3x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC Card Slot, MagSafe 3 |
| Webcam | 720p FaceTime HD | 1080p FaceTime HD |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers | High-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers |
| Keyboard | Magic Keyboard | Magic Keyboard |
| Trackpad | Force Touch Trackpad | Force Touch Trackpad |
| Biometrics | Touch ID | Touch ID |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- 2020: Featured Intel 10th and 11th generation Core processors. These offered good performance for everyday tasks and some demanding workloads, but were less power-efficient and prone to thermal throttling under sustained heavy use.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Introduced Apple’s M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. These ARM-based SoCs offer significantly improved performance per watt, leading to faster processing, better battery life, and superior thermal management.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Display
- 2020: Employed a Retina display with excellent color accuracy and brightness. However, it lacked the ProMotion technology and had thicker bezels compared to its successor.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Boasts a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology (up to 120Hz refresh rate). This offers stunning contrast ratios, HDR capabilities, and smoother scrolling and animations, making it ideal for creative professionals. The bezels are also significantly thinner.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Ports and Connectivity
- 2020: Primarily relied on Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports for charging and peripherals. While versatile, it often required dongles for users with older accessories.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Reintroduced a wider array of ports, including HDMI, an SDXC card slot, and MagSafe 3 charging, alongside Thunderbolt 4 ports. This significantly enhances connectivity and reduces the need for adapters.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Webcam
- 2020: Featured a 720p FaceTime HD camera. While adequate for basic video calls, the image quality was often grainy, especially in lower light conditions.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Upgraded to a 1080p FaceTime HD camera. This provides noticeably sharper and clearer video, improving the quality of remote meetings and video communications.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Audio
- 2020: Offered decent stereo speakers and a three-mic array. The audio quality was good for general listening but lacked the depth and spatial awareness of the newer models.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Features a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers. This delivers richer, more immersive audio with improved bass response and spatial audio support. The three-mic array also offers studio-quality sound for recordings.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Battery Life
- 2020: Provided good all-day battery life for typical use, especially with the efficiency of Intel processors. However, demanding tasks could drain the battery faster.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Achieves exceptional battery life, often lasting longer than the 2020 models even under heavier workloads, thanks to the efficiency of Apple Silicon. This makes it a true all-day powerhouse for mobile users.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Design and Build
- 2020: Featured a sleek and premium aluminum unibody design, a hallmark of MacBook Pro. The bezels were relatively thick by modern standards.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Introduced a slightly redesigned chassis with flatter edges and significantly thinner display bezels. It maintains the premium build quality while offering a more modern aesthetic.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Performance for Demanding Tasks
- 2020: Capable of handling moderate video editing, coding, and design work. However, sustained heavy loads could lead to performance throttling due to thermal limitations.
- 2021 Macbook Pro: Excels in demanding professional workflows such as 4K/8K video editing, complex 3D rendering, and large-scale software development. The M1 Pro/Max chips provide desktop-class performance with sustained efficiency.
- Winner: 2021 macbook pro
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | 2021 MacBook Pro |
| Display | 2021 MacBook Pro |
| Ports & Connectivity | 2021 MacBook Pro |
| Battery Life | 2021 MacBook Pro |
| Value (for basic users) | 2020 MacBook Pro |
| Webcam | 2021 MacBook Pro |
| Audio | 2021 MacBook Pro |
What They Have in Common
- Design: Both models feature Apple’s signature aluminum unibody construction, offering a premium and durable feel.
- Operating System: They both run macOS, providing a familiar and user-friendly experience with access to the App Store and Apple’s ecosystem.
- Keyboard and Trackpad: Both MacBook Pros utilize the reliable Magic Keyboard and the responsive Force Touch trackpad, known for their excellent typing and navigation experiences.
- Touch Id: Security and convenience are enhanced in both models with the integrated Touch ID sensor for quick and secure authentication.
- Build Quality: Apple’s commitment to high-quality materials and construction is evident in both the 2020 and 2021 MacBook Pro models, ensuring longevity.
2020 Vs 2021 Macbook Pro Buying Guide
Performance & Power
The 2020 MacBook Pro, particularly the Intel-based models, offered solid performance for everyday tasks and moderate creative workloads. However, it was often outshone by the efficiency and raw power of Apple’s M1 chip. The 2021 MacBook Pro, featuring the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, represents a significant leap forward. These chips deliver unparalleled speed and graphics capabilities, making them ideal for demanding professional applications like video editing, 3D rendering, and complex coding projects. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Display & Design
While the 2020 MacBook Pro sported a Retina display, the 2021 model introduced the Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology. This means higher brightness, better contrast ratios, and a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and motion. The design of the 2021 model also saw a refresh with a flatter aesthetic, a notch for the webcam, and improved speaker placement, contributing to a more modern and immersive viewing experience.
Ports & Connectivity
A key differentiator for the 2021 MacBook Pro is its return to a more robust port selection. While the 2020 model was limited to Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, the 2021 MacBook Pro reintroduces the HDMI port, an SDXC card slot, and MagSafe 3 charging. This significantly enhances its versatility for professionals who need to connect to external displays, transfer files from cameras, and charge their laptops without occupying a Thunderbolt port.
Battery Life & Value
Both models offer excellent battery life, a hallmark of Apple’s MacBooks. However, the M1-powered 2020 MacBook Pro already set a high bar. The 2021 MacBook Pro, despite its increased power, maintains impressive battery longevity thanks to the efficiency of the M1 Pro and M1 Max chips. When considering value, the 2021 model offers a more substantial upgrade in performance, display, and features, justifying its higher price point for those who can leverage its capabilities. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 2020 If…
- You are on a tighter budget and looking for a capable MacBook Pro for everyday tasks.
- Your workflow primarily involves basic productivity, web browsing, and light content consumption.
- You don’t require the latest cutting-edge performance for demanding professional applications.
Buy 2021 MacBook Pro If…
- You are a creative professional (video editor, graphic designer, music producer) needing maximum performance.
- You require a larger, brighter, and more color-accurate display for your work.
- You need a wider array of ports for seamless connectivity with external displays and accessories.
- You prioritize the latest Apple Silicon performance and efficiency for demanding multitasking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which MacBook Pro has better speakers?
The 2021 MacBook Pro generally boasts superior speaker quality. It features a high-fidelity six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers, delivering richer bass and a more immersive audio experience compared to the 2020 model. While the 2020 MacBook Pro’s speakers are good, the 2021 model offers a noticeable improvement in clarity, depth, and overall sound reproduction.
Is the 120Hz display on the 2021 MacBook Pro worth it?
Yes, the 120Hz ProMotion display on the 2021 MacBook Pro is a significant upgrade for many users. It provides exceptionally smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a more responsive feel when interacting with the interface. While not essential for all tasks, it greatly enhances the user experience for creative professionals, gamers, and anyone who values visual fluidity and responsiveness.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on either model?
Unfortunately, neither the 2020 nor the 2021 MacBook Pro models offer user-upgradeable RAM or storage. Apple solders these components directly to the logic board. Therefore, it is crucial to select the appropriate RAM and storage configurations at the time of purchase to meet your future needs, as they cannot be expanded later. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which model is better for video editing?
For serious video editing, the 2021 MacBook Pro is the clear winner. Its M1 Pro and M1 Max chips offer substantially more processing power and graphics performance, enabling much faster render times and smoother playback of high-resolution footage. The improved display and enhanced connectivity also contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable video editing workflow.
Is the 2021 MacBook Pro worth the extra cost over the 2020 model?
For most users looking for the absolute best performance, display, and features, the 2021 MacBook Pro is worth the extra cost. It represents a substantial leap in technology. However, if your needs are more basic, or you can find a 2020 M1 MacBook Pro at a significant discount, it can still be a very capable machine for everyday tasks and light creative work.
Final Verdict
The 2021 MacBook Pro, with its groundbreaking M1 Pro and M1 Max chips, exceptional Liquid Retina XDR display, and enhanced port selection, offers a superior and more future-proof experience. While the 2020 MacBook Pro remains a capable machine, the 2021 model sets a new standard for performance, efficiency, and professional capabilities, making it the definitive choice for demanding users.
Winner: 2021 Macbook Pro