How Long Do MacBook Pros Typically Last (and How Can You Extend Their Life)?

In 2006, Apple introduced the original MacBook Pro, billing itself as the “first Intel-based Mac notebook.” At the time, the company announced a number of never-before-seen features, a MagSafe charging mechanism, and a sleek 5.6-pound aluminum chassis. Since then, the MacBook Pro has undergone facelifts, feature upgrades, and unprecedented improvements (especially with the rise of Apple Silicon). But nearly two decades later, one thing hasn’t changed: millions of users still count on it as the perfect companion for their personal or professional needs. Among the many reasons to switch from Windows to Mac? MacBook Pros are said to last longer.

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These days, with the rate at which technology advances, a few years can seem like an eternity when it comes to what new devices can do. If you went back in time and showed early Apple adopters what the MacBook Pro could do now, they might have thought it was magic. Plus, with so many ways to customize the MacBook, it’s no wonder it remains a staple of the Apple ecosystem, especially considering how well it works with everything else. That said, laptops are often seen as investments that are meant to last through years of school or job promotions. But how long does Apple think each MacBook Pro is supposed to last, and does it really live up to those expectations?

Because they are often equipped with cutting-edge features right out of the gate, many users buy MacBook Pro models with the expectation that they will last for some time. While Apple doesn’t officially disclose how long each MacBook Pro model will last, its policies do provide some guidance, especially when products are no longer covered by official repair services.

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Depending on your device, location, and access to replacement parts, Apple says you should expect to have access to official repair support for at least five years after your Mac laptop was last distributed on official platforms. For that reason, any MacBook Pro model that is no longer sold in official stores during that period is considered a vintage model. As of August 2024, nine MacBook Pro models are currently listed as vintage, with the latest being the MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, 4 TBT3).

On the other hand, once your discontinued MacBook Pro model hits the obsolete category (or seven years after the recall), you’re on your own if something goes wrong or risk getting help from unauthorized repair centers. Unfortunately, Mac laptop owners can only expect to get help fixing battery issues for up to 10 years, but all other hardware and repairs will no longer be supported. As of August 2024, the latest MacBook Pro to join the obsolete list is the MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid 2014).

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In general, experts are divided on how long you can expect MacBook Pro laptops to last, especially since there are so many factors involved. For example, your lifestyle, how you use it, and whether or not you can repair a particular laptop model can all impact how long you can keep it running and how long it can last. Still, Asurion and his experts say that MacBooks can last an average of 5.5 years, more than enough to last you through your bachelor’s degree at university.

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But if you’re ready to upgrade, even if your MacBook Pro is still working pretty well, you’ll be happy to know that they also retain good resale value. And if you don’t want to sell it, we can give you plenty of ideas for repurposing your old MacBook, like using it as a security hub or a media server. When it comes to the durability of technology, it’s always a matter of balance between how it’s designed and how you use it.

Fortunately, you’re not limited by expectations of how long Apple thinks it should be maintained, or how long other people’s MacBook Pros have been known to last. With the right combination of care, there are a number of ways to make your MacBook Pro last longer. To extend the life of your MacBook Pro, you need to consider two things: hardware and software. Here’s how to manage both.

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When it comes to protecting your MacBook hardware, you need to be careful about critical issues like moisture, temperature, and physical damage. Unfortunately, no MacBook Pro model is waterproof, so if you tend to travel with your MacBook to places near water or in wet weather, it’s best to invest in a waterproof or water-resistant sleeve or bag. If you don’t know where to start looking, you can check out our list of the best laptop backpacks for protecting your devices.

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Plus, a good case can be the first layer of protection against unexpected bumps, drops, and other forms of physical damage. When choosing between a case and a sleeve, it really comes down to preference and how much risk your device is exposed to due to your lifestyle. For example, you might want something a bit more durable if you’re using it for off-road projects. Regardless, if you’re using a case, make sure you choose one that won’t cause your device to overheat.

To avoid burning the internal components of your MacBook Pro, it’s best to make sure your MacBook Pro isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures and is adequately ventilated, especially if you’re running complex programs. Like other electronic devices, they have standard operating temperatures that are designed to keep you and your device safe. Of course, while privacy is important, Apple warns users against using webcam covers when closing their laptops, as improper use can damage your MacBook’s screen.

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Once you’ve covered all your basics hardware-wise, here are a few suggestions to make sure your MacBook stays healthy on the inside, too. While it’s common knowledge that lithium-ion batteries like the ones in MacBook Pros will eventually fail, there are ways to properly maintain your MacBook Pro battery to keep it in good shape for as long as possible. In addition to tweaking a few settings to get better MacBook battery life, you can also commit to not using unauthorized chargers, not overcharging it, and storing it properly when not in use for long periods of time.

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Next, you should avoid bad usage habits that can affect important components of your MacBook Pro, such as not updating the software regularly. Software updates not only prevent urgent security threats, but also help optimize your laptop to run more efficiently. Over time, this will reduce the overall usage burden and keep your device in good condition. To check if your MacBook urgently needs a software update, here’s how to do it.

1. On your Mac, click the Apple icon > System Preferences.
2. In the left sidebar, click General > Software Update.
3. If an update is available, click Update Now.

In some cases, you may not be able to update your MacBook Pro operating system if your memory is full. To fix this, you can clear your MacBook Pro cache or back up your MacBook to iCloud.