The new MacBook Pro models restore Apple’s leading laptop line to its former glory – here’s how they look from every angle

First off, both sizes of the new MacBook Pro are identical in design, so we’ll be discussing both models together. From a straight on profile view, we can see that Apple has flattened any curvature in its design save for the corners. We can also see the laptops’ new “feet” that they stand on.

This shot also shows the new display in great detail, particularly highlighting the notch in the top center of the screen. While many fans are confused by this change, Apple touted how this new display design allows for more screen space and only the top-oriented menu bar of macOS is affected. Fair enough, but we’ll be the final judge of its application in practice.

Looking directly at the keyboard from above shows Apple’s daring decision to walk away from its Touch Bar technology and go back to traditional function keys and a round power button featuring Apple’s Touch ID sensor.

This keyboard is, of course, one of Apple’s Magic Keyboards with mechanical keys rather than that scissor switch used up until a year or two ago.

Getting a closer look at the MacBook Pro in a closed position shows the exact nature of its manufacturing process, using 100% recycled aluminum as well as a list of other sustainably-sourced materials.

This design also looks a lot like MacBook Pro models of several years ago, before 2016, with more straightforward lines, curves, and edges used in its profile.

While we’re on the laptop’s closed position, we can see all of its ports on display. Yes, the MagSafe port, HDMI output, and direct SD card support all return.

Both the 14- and- 16-inch models come featuring three Thunderbolt 4 ports on the USB-C standard. This means all USB-C Mac accessories you already have are supported, and these ports can be used to charge the devices.

However, when connected to power via the returning MagSafe port and connector, the MacBook Pro laptops can charge up to 50% in as quick as 30 minutes.

This is also a newly redesigned version of the MagSafe system, using a threaded cable rather than simple rubberized plastic of years past.

Finally, the new MacBook Pro models look largely indistinguishable from earlier versions when viewed from behind the lid.

The new 14-inch MacBook Pro starts at $1,999.00, meanwhile, the 16-inch model starts at $2,499.00, and both are available for preorder now with general availability starting on October 26. Turns out that, while you’re also getting Apple’s latest M1 Pro processor in each of these new models, getting those back-to-basics upgrades are going to cost more than you may have expected.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) (small)MacBook Pro 16-inch (2021) (small)