So, you're wondering if the 2016 MacBook Pro is still a viable option in 2024, huh? Let's dive deep into whether this machine holds up in today's tech landscape. We'll cover everything from its design and performance to its notorious keyboard and overall value. By the end, you should have a clear idea if this is the right MacBook for you.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the 2016 MacBook Pro marked a significant shift from its predecessors. Apple introduced a thinner and lighter profile, making it more portable and sleek. The all-aluminum unibody construction gives it a premium feel, and it's available in Space Gray and Silver. While the design is aesthetically pleasing, it did come with some trade-offs, which we'll discuss later.

The build quality is what you'd expect from Apple – top-notch. The aluminum casing feels robust, and the hinge is sturdy. The overall construction gives you confidence that this machine can withstand daily wear and tear. However, the thinness of the design also made it more prone to certain issues, such as the infamous keyboard problems.

One of the standout features was the Touch Bar, aContext-sensitive OLED strip that replaced the function keys. While some users found it innovative and helpful, others saw it as a gimmick. The Touch Bar offered shortcuts and controls that changed depending on the application you were using. It had potential, but its usefulness was subjective.

Ports were another area of contention. Apple decided to go all-in on USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports, ditching the traditional USB-A, HDMI, and MagSafe. This meant that users needed to invest in dongles and adapters to connect their existing peripherals. While USB-C is versatile and offers fast data transfer speeds, the transition was not seamless for many users. The lack of legacy ports was a significant pain point for professionals who relied on older devices and interfaces. However, this decision pushed the industry forward, and USB-C has become more standard over time.

Performance

When it was released, the performance of the 2016 MacBook Pro was impressive. It came with Intel's 6th-generation Skylake processors, offering a decent boost in speed and efficiency compared to previous models. You could configure it with up to a Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD. For everyday tasks like browsing, email, and document editing, it performed admirably. Even more demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design were handled reasonably well, though it wasn't a powerhouse compared to later models.

The integrated graphics, however, were a weak point. The base models came with Intel Iris Graphics, which were okay for light gaming and basic graphics tasks, but struggled with more intensive applications. If you needed more graphical horsepower, you had to opt for the higher-end models with dedicated AMD Radeon Pro graphics. These offered a significant improvement in performance, making them suitable for more demanding creative workflows.

Storage speeds were excellent, thanks to the fast SSDs. Boot times were quick, and applications loaded swiftly. The ability to configure it with up to 2TB of storage was also a boon for professionals who needed to store large files. However, upgrading the storage after purchase was not possible, so you had to choose wisely when configuring your machine.

Thermal management was an area where the 2016 MacBook Pro struggled. The thin design meant that there wasn't much room for adequate cooling. As a result, the machine could get hot under heavy loads, leading to thermal throttling. This meant that the processor would reduce its clock speed to prevent overheating, which would impact performance. This was a common complaint among users who pushed their machines to the limit.

Keyboard Issues

The keyboard on the 2016 MacBook Pro is arguably its biggest flaw. Apple introduced the butterfly keyboard, which was designed to be thinner and more stable than traditional scissor-switch keyboards. However, it turned out to be incredibly unreliable. The keys were prone to getting stuck or failing completely due to even the smallest particles of dust or debris. This led to a widespread outcry from users, and Apple eventually faced multiple lawsuits over the issue.

Typing on the butterfly keyboard was also a controversial experience. Some users liked the shallow key travel and clicky feel, while others found it uncomfortable and fatiguing. The lack of travel made it feel like you were typing on a hard surface, which wasn't ideal for long typing sessions. The noise of the keyboard was also louder than previous models, which could be distracting in quiet environments.

Apple did attempt to address the keyboard issues with revised designs in subsequent years. However, none of these revisions completely solved the problem. It wasn't until the introduction of the Magic Keyboard with the scissor-switch mechanism in the 16-inch MacBook Pro and later models that Apple finally resolved the keyboard woes. If you're considering a 2016 MacBook Pro, be aware that you may encounter keyboard problems, and factor in the cost of potential repairs.

Battery Life

The battery life on the 2016 MacBook Pro was decent, but not exceptional. Apple claimed up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing and video playback, but real-world usage often fell short of that. Under typical usage, you could expect around 6-8 hours of battery life. Demanding tasks like video editing and gaming would drain the battery much faster.

The battery capacity varied depending on the model. The 13-inch MacBook Pro had a smaller battery than the 15-inch model. Over time, the battery would also degrade, reducing its capacity and shortening its lifespan. If you're buying a used 2016 MacBook Pro, it's worth checking the battery health to see how much capacity it has retained.

Charging was done via USB-C, which was convenient. You could use the included power adapter or any USB-C charger that supported Power Delivery (PD). The charging speed was reasonably fast, but not as fast as some of the newer MacBooks with faster charging capabilities.

Software Compatibility

The 2016 MacBook Pro is still capable of running the latest versions of macOS, which is a significant advantage. Apple typically supports its Macs for many years, providing software updates and security patches. This means that you can continue to use the latest features and applications without any compatibility issues. However, as macOS evolves, older hardware may start to show its age, and performance may degrade over time.

Most modern applications are compatible with the 2016 MacBook Pro. However, some resource-intensive applications may run slower than on newer machines. If you're using professional software like Adobe Creative Suite or Final Cut Pro, you may notice a difference in performance compared to newer Macs with more powerful processors and graphics cards.

Driver support is also generally good. Apple provides drivers for most common peripherals, and third-party vendors also offer drivers for their products. However, you may encounter some compatibility issues with older devices that are no longer supported. It's always a good idea to check the compatibility of your peripherals before purchasing a used MacBook Pro.

Is It Still Worth It in 2024?

So, the big question: Is the 2016 MacBook Pro still worth it in 2024? The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you're looking for a cheap MacBook for basic tasks like browsing, email, and document editing, it could be a viable option. However, there are several factors to consider.

The price of a used 2016 MacBook Pro is significantly lower than newer models. You can often find them for a few hundred dollars, which makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, you need to factor in the potential cost of repairs, especially if the keyboard is faulty.

Performance-wise, the 2016 MacBook Pro is starting to show its age. It's not as fast as newer models, and it may struggle with demanding tasks. If you need a machine for video editing, gaming, or other resource-intensive applications, you're better off investing in a newer MacBook with a more powerful processor and graphics card.

The keyboard issues are a major concern. If you're unlucky enough to get a machine with a faulty keyboard, you may end up spending a lot of time and money on repairs. It's worth considering whether you're willing to take that risk.

Alternatives to the 2016 MacBook Pro include newer used MacBooks, such as the 2018 or 2019 models, which have the improved keyboard. You could also consider a new MacBook Air, which offers better performance and battery life at a reasonable price. Ultimately, the best option depends on your individual needs and budget.

In conclusion, while the 2016 MacBook Pro might seem like a bargain, its age and potential issues make it a risky purchase in 2024. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision, and consider whether a newer or alternative option might be a better investment in the long run.