Is the 2019 MacBook Pro Still Worth It? A Software Engineer's Perspective

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Performance
  • Processor and RAM
  • Peak Performance
• Display
• Touch Bar
• Speakers
• Keyboard and Trackpad
• Cons
  • Heating
  • Fan Noise
  • Incompatibility with M1 Accessories
• Who is this MacBook for?
• Conclusion

💻 Is the 2019 16-Inch MacBook Pro Still Worth It in 2022?

As an avid user of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro for over a year, I find myself questioning whether this laptop is still worth investing in, considering Apple's transition to their new Silicon M1 and M2 chips. With the complete ecosystem that Apple has built around their new chips, one might assume that the obvious choice would be to opt for a MacBook with the latest technology. However, having extensively used this laptop for my full-time software engineering job and part-time YouTube endeavors, I believe there is more to this question than a simple yes or no answer.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro has not disappointed me. Equipped with a 2.5 GHz, 8-core Intel Core i9 processor and 32 GB of RAM, this laptop provided me with six months of peak performance. It effortlessly handled tasks ranging from coding to video editing, as well as my day-to-day activities. It's essential to note that at the time of purchase, this model was the most powerful MacBook Pro available. However, with the release of the new 14-inch and 16-inch M1 MacBook Pros in October 2021, the performance landscape has changed.

Display

One aspect of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro that continues to impress me is the display. The 16-inch screen offers ample space, providing a delightful user experience for various tasks. With a brightness of 500 nits and True Tone technology, the display is vibrant and accurate, whether I'm engaged in creative work or my everyday programming projects.

Touch Bar

The Touch Bar, a unique feature of this MacBook Pro, has had mixed reviews. While some find it useful, there isn't a substantial market for it. This is evident from Apple's decision to remove the Touch Bar from their more recent lineup. Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with it. I find it beneficial while video editing and chatting, thanks to the presence of emojis and WORD suggestions. However, beyond those specific use cases, I haven't found much practicality in the Touch Bar.

Speakers

One of the standout features of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro is its speakers. The sound quality is simply outstanding and easily ranks among the best in the realm of laptops. Whether I'm enjoying Music, watching movies, or engaging in video conferences, the audio experience on this machine never fails to impress.

Keyboard and Trackpad

Apple made a significant improvement by transitioning from the butterfly keyboard to the magic keyboard in the MacBook Pro. The switch brought a more satisfying typing experience, with keys offering 0.5 millimeters more travel. Additionally, the spacious trackpad contributes to an effortless scrolling experience. The overall user experience is commendable, with smooth operation and precision.

Cons

With every laptop, there are bound to be some drawbacks. Here are a few aspects of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro that I find less enjoyable:

Heating

One significant issue I've encountered with this MacBook Pro is heating. When running intensive or resource-heavy applications, using it as a laptop becomes almost impossible due to the excessive heat generated. It's not uncommon for the laptop to reach uncomfortably high temperatures. I've resorted to placing something underneath the laptop to reduce heat transmission when using it on my lap. Additionally, I've found significant relief by using a foldable ergonomic laptop stand, which further minimizes heat buildup.

Fan Noise

Under heavy workload, the fans in this MacBook Pro can become quite loud. When running apps like Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Notion, and Chrome simultaneously, the fan noise becomes particularly noticeable. This can be a bit distracting, especially in quiet environments.

Incompatibility with M1 Accessories

As Apple has transitioned to their new M1 chips and subsequently released M1-compatible accessories, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro experiences some incompatibility issues. For instance, I purchased a new Magic Keyboard only to discover that the fingerprint sensor is only supported with M1 Max chips. This limitation has proven to be quite inconvenient, as I often prefer to use dual external monitors without having to open my laptop. Now, I am forced to turn on the laptop solely for the purpose of using the fingerprint sensor.

Who is this MacBook for?

Considering the pros and cons discussed, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro is a viable option for certain individuals. If you are someone who has used Windows in the past and is considering a switch to macOS, or if you are a budget-conscious student in need of a high-performing laptop, this MacBook Pro is worth considering. You can find attractive deals on platforms like eBay or Amazon, with prices ranging from $900 to $1500, depending on the specifications you desire. Refurbished models may also offer an even more affordable option. However, if you are not within these categories, opting for the newer M2 MacBook Air might be a more appealing choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro still holds its ground and remains a powerful machine in 2022. With its impressive performance, stunning display, excellent speakers, and comfortable keyboard and trackpad, it continues to satisfy users' needs in various professional and creative domains. However, it's crucial to consider the heating issues, fan noise, and compatibility limitations with M1 accessories. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision on whether this MacBook Pro is the right fit for your specific requirements.

Highlights

• The 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro offers powerful performance with an Intel Core i9 processor and 32 GB RAM.
• The display provides ample screen real estate with high brightness and True Tone technology.
• The Touch Bar, while not widely embraced, can be useful in specific scenarios.
• The speakers on this laptop are among the best in the laptop market.
• The magic keyboard and spacious trackpad contribute to a pleasant user experience.
• Heating issues and fan noise can be drawbacks in resource-intensive tasks.
• Compatibility with M1 accessories is limited on the 2019 model.
• The MacBook Pro is ideal for Windows users transitioning to macOS and budget-conscious students.
• Consider the newer M2 MacBook Air if you don't fall into the specific categories Mentioned.

FAQs

Q: Can I upgrade the RAM in the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro? A: Unfortunately, the RAM in the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro is soldered and cannot be upgraded.

Q: How long does the battery last on the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro? A: The battery life of the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro varies depending on usage. Under normal conditions, it can last for approximately 10 to 11 hours.

Q: Does the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro support external displays? A: Yes, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro supports multiple external displays, allowing for increased productivity and flexibility.

Q: Is the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro compatible with macOS Monterey? A: Yes, the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro is compatible with macOS Monterey, Apple's latest operating system.

Resources:

• Apple MacBook Pro