Currently priced at $1,399 (a markdown from $1,899), the 14-inch Apple MacBook Pro (2023, equipped with the M3 Pro chip) provides an impressive blend of high-performance features at a more affordable rate, especially in comparison to its selling price of $1,699 on Amazon.

This model features the M3 MacBook Pro base configuration, which includes an 11-core CPU, 14-core GPU, 18GB unified memory, and a 512GB SSD. This setup is highly capable of managing demanding tasks such as 4K video editing, coding, and multitasking with numerous applications and browser tabs without overheating or quickly depleting battery life. Operating on macOS Sonoma, it also boasts a backlit keyboard alongside support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, features that were present in the 2021 iteration as well.

The laptop showcases a stunning 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a resolution of 3024 x 1964 and brightness levels reaching up to 1000 nits—ideal for outdoor usage or HDR media. The screen produces vibrant colors, and Apple’s ProMotion technology facilitates smooth motion with a dynamic 120Hz refresh rate. This is beneficial during video playback or for fast-moving visuals, although it may not significantly enhance static office work. While lacking a touchscreen—a feature some Windows users might prefer—the display’s clarity compensates through its exceptional sharpness and depth. Furthermore, battery longevity is impressive, lasting up to 30 hours on a single charge, as highlighted in a PCMag review.

This model excels with a broader selection of ports compared to what is typically available on a MacBook Air or other laptops in the same category. The inclusion of three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI output, an SDXC card reader, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and MagSafe charging ensures that users won’t have to rely excessively on dongles. For individuals who do not require a powerhouse for tasks like 3D rendering or machine learning, the M3 Pro version is well up to the task. It serves as an excellent choice for creative professionals, developers, gamers looking to optimize their Mac experience, and anyone seeking top-tier screen quality and construction without opting for all the premium features.