If you are searching for a powerful used MacBook in 2026, two models continue standing out in the second-hand Apple market — the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch (2017) and the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch (2018).

Both laptops still offer premium Retina displays, strong Intel performance, dedicated Radeon graphics, Touch Bar functionality, and professional-grade build quality. But when comparing overall value today, the differences between these two MacBooks become very important — especially for coding, video editing, multitasking, and long-term usability.

The 2018 MacBook Pro introduced major performance upgrades that still make it highly competitive in 2026, while the 2017 model remains attractive for buyers who want a lower-priced entry into the Apple ecosystem.

So which one actually gives better value today? Let’s break it down.

Design & Build Quality

Both the 2017 and 2018 MacBook Pro models still feel modern even by today’s standards. Apple’s aluminum unibody design remains sleek, durable, and professional-looking, making either laptop suitable for:

• Office work
• School and university
• Remote work
• Creative projects
• Business environments

Both models include:

• Large Retina displays
• Touch Bar support
• Touch ID fingerprint authentication
• Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports
• Premium speakers
• Slim portable construction

At first glance, the laptops look very similar. However, the real differences appear once you begin using them for heavier tasks.

Real-World Performance — The 2018 Model Pulls Ahead

The biggest difference between these two MacBooks is performance.

The 2017 MacBook Pro A1707 still performs well for:

• Web browsing
• Office work
• Coding
• Graphic design
• Light video editing
• Multitasking

However, the 2018 MacBook Pro introduced a major leap forward with its 6-core Intel Core i7 processor.

Compared to the 2017 quad-core architecture, the 2018 model handles:

• Video rendering
• Heavy multitasking
• Creative software
• Xcode development
• Docker environments
• Adobe applications

…much faster and more smoothly.

For users working with modern workflows in 2026, the 2018 MacBook Pro simply feels more future-proof and responsive.

If you regularly:

• Edit videos
• Run virtual machines
• Use professional creative apps
• Code large projects
• Keep many browser tabs open

…the 2018 version delivers noticeably better performance.

Radeon Pro 555 vs Radeon Pro 560X

Graphics performance is another important difference.

The 2017 MacBook Pro typically shipped with Radeon Pro 555 or 560 graphics, while the 2018 version introduced the upgraded Radeon Pro 555X and 560X GPUs.

The Radeon Pro 560X offers:

• Better rendering performance
• Faster GPU acceleration
• Improved creative workflow speed
• Better video editing support
• Smoother graphics performance

For users doing:

• Final Cut Pro editing
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• Photoshop
• Motion graphics
• Lightroom editing

…the 560X provides a noticeable advantage.

While neither MacBook is designed for modern AAA gaming, the 2018 model still performs better in GPU-intensive creative tasks.

Keyboard Differences — The 2018 Revision Matters

One of the most discussed topics with Intel MacBooks is the butterfly keyboard design.

The 2017 MacBook Pro uses Apple’s second-generation butterfly keyboard, while the 2018 model introduced a revised third-generation version designed to:

• Reduce typing noise
• Improve typing feel
• Help minimize dust-related keyboard issues

Neither keyboard is considered perfect today, but the 2018 version generally feels slightly more refined and quieter during typing.

For buyers purchasing used MacBooks, keyboard condition is extremely important. A well-maintained 2018 model often becomes the safer long-term option.

SSD Storage — More Flexibility on the 2018 Model

Storage also becomes increasingly important in 2026 because applications, creative files, and operating systems continue growing in size.

The 2017 MacBook Pro commonly shipped with:

• 256GB
• 512GB
• 1TB SSD options

The 2018 model expanded storage possibilities significantly, supporting much larger SSD configurations while also improving data speeds.

For creators, developers, and professionals working with:

• Video projects
• Design files
• Large software libraries
• Virtual machines

…the larger SSD options on the 2018 MacBook Pro provide more flexibility and convenience.

Thermals & Overheating

Thermals are one area where opinions differ.

The 2018 MacBook Pro is much faster, but the added power also generates more heat during:

• Heavy rendering
• Long editing sessions
• Gaming
• Intensive multitasking

Under sustained heavy workloads, the laptop can become noticeably warm.

The 2017 model generally runs slightly cooler because its processor is less demanding overall.

However, for normal daily usage such as:

• Browsing
• Streaming
• Office work
• Coding
• Light editing

…both MacBooks still perform comfortably in 2026.

If your workloads are moderate, overheating should not be a major concern on either model.

Intel MacBooks vs M-Series Macs

Apple’s M-series MacBooks are undeniably faster and more power-efficient today. The M1, M2, and M3 chips outperform Intel MacBooks in:

• Battery life
• Thermal efficiency
• Rendering speed
• Silent operation
• AI-powered workloads

However, Intel MacBooks still offer several advantages:

• Lower purchase prices
• Larger displays for less money
• Boot Camp Windows support
• Better compatibility with some legacy software
• Strong multitasking capabilities

For buyers who cannot justify the higher price of newer Apple Silicon laptops, the 2018 MacBook Pro still provides excellent value.

Where to Buy a Reliable Refurbished MacBook

When buying a used MacBook, the seller matters just as much as the specifications.

Ryan and Troy Store has become a trusted option for buyers looking for reliable pre-owned Apple laptops because the devices are professionally checked, tested, and prepared for everyday use.

Buying from Ryan and Troy Store gives customers greater confidence through:

• Professionally tested MacBooks
• Genuine Apple hardware
• Quality assurance
• Reliable customer support
• Competitive pricing
• Carefully maintained devices

This becomes especially important when purchasing older Intel MacBooks where battery condition and overall device health greatly affect long-term performance.

Visit us online.

2018 Apple MacBook Pro

Apple MacBook Pro A1707 (2017)

Why the 2018 MacBook Pro Gives Better Value

• Faster 6-core Intel processor
• Better multitasking performance
• Improved Radeon Pro 560X graphics
• Better for coding and video editing
• Larger SSD configuration options
• More future-proof for modern workflows
• Refined third-generation butterfly keyboard
• Excellent Retina display quality
• Premium Apple build and design
• Strong creative and productivity performance

Final Verdict

Both the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch (2017) and the Apple MacBook Pro 15-inch (2018) still offer strong value in 2026, especially for buyers who want a premium MacBook experience at a lower price than modern Apple Silicon models.

However, the 2018 MacBook Pro ultimately delivers better long-term value thanks to its significantly stronger processor, improved graphics, better multitasking performance, and stronger overall future usability.

The 2017 model still works well for lighter users and tighter budgets, but for developers, creators, students, and professionals who need more performance headroom, the 2018 version is clearly the smarter investment today.

And when buying a used MacBook, choosing a trusted seller like Ryan and Troy Store helps ensure you get a device that is reliable, professionally tested, and ready for daily use.