The resale value of MacBook models varies significantly based on age, condition, specifications, and market demand, with newer Apple Silicon models (M1/M2/M3) retaining 20-65% of their original price and older Intel-based models depreciating faster. A 2024 MacBook Pro can fetch between $94 and $3,299 depending on configuration, while a 2015 MacBook Pro typically sells for $100-$500. Apple’s own trade-in program offers $25-$700 credit, but third-party resale platforms often provide higher returns for well-maintained devices. Key factors influencing value include the transition to Apple Silicon chips, which command premium prices, and the popularity of models like the MacBook Air for portability.

• Apple Silicon models (M1/M2/M3) retain 50-65% of their value after 1-2 years, while Intel models lose 20-30% in the first year and 10-15% annually thereafter ^[3].
• MacBook Pro resale prices range from $94 for older models to $3,299 for high-end configurations, with refurbished M1 Pro 16” models still selling for $1,929-$2,689 on Apple’s site ^[4][5].
• Selling platforms matter: Apple Trade-In offers $25-$700, while private sales or third-party sites like SellYourMac can yield 20-65% of the original price ^[1][2].
• Condition and timing are critical—devices in "like-new" condition with original accessories sell for up to 30% more, and selling before new model announcements maximizes returns ^[2][7].

MacBook Resale Value by Model and Generation

Apple Silicon vs. Intel: Depreciation and Demand

The shift from Intel to Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3 chips) has created a clear divide in resale values, with Silicon-based MacBooks holding significantly higher market demand and slower depreciation. Apple’s custom chips offer better performance, battery life, and future-proofing, making them more attractive to buyers. Intel-based models, while still functional, lose value faster due to perceived obsolescence and lower efficiency.

• Apple Silicon retention rates:
• M1/M2 MacBook Air and Pro models retain 50-65% of their original value after 1-2 years, compared to 30-40% for Intel equivalents ^[3].
• A base M1 Pro 16” MacBook Pro (2021) still sells for $1,929 refurbished on Apple’s site, while the M1 Max version commands $2,689—just 15-20% below their original MSRP ^[5].
• MacBook Air M1 (2020) models resell for $600-$900 depending on condition, while Intel Air models from 2019-2020 average $400-$600 ^[4].

• Intel model depreciation:
• Intel-based MacBooks lose 20-30% of their value in the first year and 10-15% annually afterward, with 2018-2019 models now selling for 40-60% of their original price ^[3].
• A 2015 MacBook Pro (Intel) trades in for $115 via Apple but can sell privately for $100-$500 depending on specs (e.g., 16GB RAM/1TB SSD models fetch higher prices) ^[7].
• Older Intel models (pre-2018) often sell for under $300, with many buyers opting for refurbished units with warranties instead ^[6].

• Market demand drivers:
• Apple Silicon models are prioritized for their longer software support (expected 5-7 years vs. 3-5 for Intel) and superior performance-per-watt ^[9].
• Refurbished markets (e.g., Back Market, Mac of All Trades) show Silicon models selling 30-50% faster than Intel counterparts, with M2 Pro/Max configurations in highest demand ^[6][8].

Resale Value by Model: MacBook Air vs. Pro vs. Older Generations

Resale values differ sharply between MacBook Air, Pro, and discontinued models, with professional-grade Pro units commanding premium prices and Air models benefiting from portability demand. Older generations (pre-2018) see steep depreciation but remain viable for budget buyers, especially in refurbished markets.

• MacBook Pro (Highest Resale Value):
• Current-gen (M3/M2 Pro/Max): Sells for $1,500-$3,299 depending on specs. A 14” M3 Pro (2023) with 16GB RAM/512GB SSD resells for $2,200-$2,500, while a 16” M2 Max (2022) with 32GB RAM/1TB SSD fetches $2,800-$3,200 ^[4].
• M1 Pro/Max (2021): Refurbished units sell for $1,800-$2,700, with the 16” M1 Max (64GB RAM/2TB SSD) still valued at $2,689 on Apple’s site ^[5].
• Intel Pro models (2019-2020): 16” i9 models resell for $1,200-$1,600, while 13”/15” 2018-2019 models average $800-$1,200 ^[4].

• MacBook Air (Steady Mid-Range Value):
• M2 Air (2022): Sells for $800-$1,100 (original MSRP: $1,199), retaining 70-90% of value in the first year ^[3].
• M1 Air (2020): Resale prices range from $600-$900, with 16GB RAM/512GB SSD configurations at the higher end ^[4].
• Intel Air (2018-2020): Typically $400-$700, with i5/16GB/512GB models selling closer to $600 ^[7].

• Older/Discontinued Models (2015-2017):
• 2015-2017 MacBook Pro (Intel): $100-$500 depending on specs. A 2015 15” Pro with 16GB RAM/1TB SSD can sell for $400-$500, while base models fetch $100-$250 ^[7].
• 2017 MacBook Air: $200-$400, with higher prices for 8GB RAM/256GB SSD units ^[6].
• Refurbished markets (e.g., Back Market, Mac of All Trades) offer these models for 30-70% off new prices, with warranties improving their appeal ^[6][8].

• Key resale factors:
• Storage/RAM upgrades add 20-30% to value (e.g., 1TB SSD vs. 256GB in same model) ^[4].
• Original packaging/accessories increase resale by 10-15% ^[2].
• Timing: Selling before new model announcements (e.g., M4 release) can boost value by 10-20% ^[2][9].