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Apple MacBook Pro 16.2" Core M1 Pro (2021)

TLDR Review: MacBook Pro 16" M1 Pro

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: May 25th, 2026

Pros

•Performs exceptionally well with demanding tasks like 4K video editing, Adobe software, and local LLMs such as Llama 3.1
•Comes with all necessary ports including US, HDMI, and SDHC slots, great for photographers and videographers
•Fast processing speed that significantly outperforms other devices owned
•Excellent battery life, lasting nearly two days with moderate use
•Durable and reliable, still functioning well since 2021
•Smooth, responsive performance enhances overall user experience
•Return to physical function keys instead of Touch Bar improves usability and reduces accidental commands
•Higuality screen with good resolution, adjustable brightness, and a subtle notch that doesn’t interfere with work
•MagSafe power port for better damage protection and convenience
•Welalanced design that is manageable in various settings with increased wrist comfort

Cons

•Limited US / Thunderbolt 3 ports may require adapters for some peripherals
•External storage needs additional adapters or external drives as it lacks builn media options like CD/DVD
•The macOS Monterey can activate unnecessary features, which might be a distraction
•Transition to M1 architecture limits virtualization options, affecting running traditional x86 virtual machines
•Slightly heavy and thick compared to ultralight laptops, though still portable
•The 120Hz refresh rate is good but some users desire higher, like 144Hz, for smoother visuals
•Fingerprint sensor can be finicky and requires waking the device before use
•Some users miss the Touch Bar but appreciate the return of physical function keys

Bottom Line

The Apple MacBook Pro 16.2" Core M1 Pro (2021) is a powerhouse that handles demanding creative and professional tasks with ease, thanks to its robust M1 Pro chip, excellent build quality, and a wide array of ports. Its battery life, performance, and upgraded keyboard make it a top-tier choice for power users, especially those valuing a reliable and long-lasting machine. However, if you need extensive virtualization or more numerous ports without adapters, you might want to explore other options or consider the MacBook Pro models with additional connectivity or different specs.

How we researched this

About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 1 retailers to give you the short version.

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