Apple MacBook Pro A2485 Review – Still Worth Buying in 2025?

When Apple launched the MacBook Pro A2485 powered by the Apple M1 Pro chip, it was a game-changer in the laptop industry. This model redefined performance benchmarks, making it a go-to choice for professionals in video editing, 3D rendering, software development, and music production. Even today in 2025, many buyers are asking: Is the MacBook Pro A2485 still worth it?

In this detailed review, we’ll break down its features, performance, pricing, pros, cons, and how it compares to newer MacBook models.

Apple MacBook Pro A2485 – Key Features

Here’s a quick look at the main specifications of the Apple MacBook Pro A2485:

Design and Build Quality

The Apple MacBook Pro A2485 follows Apple’s minimalist design language but introduces a more functional layout. Unlike earlier Intel-based MacBooks, this version brought back the much-loved MagSafe charging port, HDMI port, and SD card reader—a big win for creative professionals.

The 16.2-inch chassis is slightly thicker than its predecessors, but this is to accommodate better thermal performance and more ports. It has an aluminum unibody design, available in Space Gray and Silver, and feels premium in every sense.

Display – One of the Best in Class

The Liquid Retina XDR display is arguably one of the highlights of this model. With mini-LED technology, it delivers:

• Up to 1600 nits peak brightness
• 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio
• Wide color (P3) and True Tone technology
• ProMotion with adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz

Whether you are editing 4K/8K video, retouching high-resolution photos, or simply streaming Netflix, the display on the A2485 is stunning and far ahead of most competitors.

Connectivity and Ports

Apple finally listened to professionals and brought back essential ports:

• MagSafe 3 charging
• 3 Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
• 1 HDMI port
• 1 SDXC card slot
• 3.5mm headphone jack

This makes the MacBook Pro A2485 much more versatile than its USB-C-only predecessors.

Performance – Powered by Apple M1 Pro

The M1 Pro chip was one of Apple’s biggest leaps in silicon technology. With a 10-core CPU and up to a 16-core GPU, it handled workloads that previously required desktop-class machines.

Key performance highlights:

• Video Editing: Handles 8K ProRes video smoothly in Final Cut Pro.
• Software Development: Xcode builds are significantly faster.
• Machine Learning: Neural Engine accelerates AI/ML workflows.
• Multitasking: Unified memory architecture ensures no lag even with multiple heavy apps open.

For comparison, benchmark scores put the M1 Pro well ahead of Intel’s i9 processors of 2020 and still competitive with many 2024 mid-range chips.

Battery Life – Marathon Performer

Apple claimed up to 21 hours of video playback and 14–16 hours of regular usage on the MacBook Pro A2485. In real-world use, even under demanding tasks like coding and media playback, it easily crosses 10–12 hours, which is impressive for a powerhouse laptop.

This makes it one of the longest-lasting performance laptops even in 2025, beating most Windows-based machines in the same category.

Keyboard, Trackpad, and Speakers

• Keyboard: The Magic Keyboard offers a smooth, responsive typing experience, miles ahead of the problematic butterfly keyboards from older MacBooks.
• Trackpad: The Force Touch trackpad remains industry-leading in precision and gestures.
• Speakers: A six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers provides immersive audio, rivaling some standalone external speakers.

Connectivity and Ports

Apple finally listened to professionals and brought back essential ports:

• MagSafe 3 charging
• 3 Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports
• 1 HDMI port
• 1 SDXC card slot
• 3.5mm headphone jack

This makes the MacBook Pro A2485 much more versatile than its USB-C-only predecessors.

Pricing and Competition in India

When launched in 2021, the MacBook Pro A2485 started at around ₹2,39,900 in India for the base model (M1 Pro, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD). Prices scaled higher for upgraded RAM and storage options.

By 2025, refurbished and pre-owned versions of this model are available at significantly lower prices—sometimes between ₹1,20,000–₹1,50,000 depending on configuration and condition.

In terms of competition, it goes up against:

• Dell XPS 15
• HP Spectre x360 16
• Asus ROG Zephyrus M16 (for creative + gaming users)
• Newer MacBook Pro M2 Pro and M3 Pro models

While newer models are faster, the A2485 still holds its ground with excellent performance and a more affordable price tag in the refurbished market.

Should You Buy the MacBook Pro A2485 in 2025?

If you’re a professional looking for a powerful, reliable, and long-lasting laptop, the Apple MacBook Pro A2485 (2021) remains a solid choice. It offers desktop-class performance in a portable design, stunning display, and exceptional battery life.

For budget-conscious buyers, a refurbished MacBook Pro A2485 is a great option—offering flagship-level performance at a mid-range price.

👉 You can check Apple’s official refurbished store or trusted platforms like Amazon India and Refurbo.in for deals on refurbished MacBooks.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance with M1 Pro chip
• Stunning Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion
• Excellent battery life compared to Windows rivals
• Premium build quality and professional design
• Great port selection (MagSafe, HDMI, SD card slot back)
• Immersive audio system with six speakers
• Long-term software support from Apple

Cons:

• Expensive when launched, though refurbished models are more affordable now
• Heavier (2.1 kg) than the 14-inch MacBook Pro, less portable
• Not upgradeable – RAM and storage are soldered in, so you must choose configuration wisely
• Not ideal for gaming, limited to macOS-supported titles
• Newer M2 Pro/M3 Pro models offer slightly better performance at a similar price if bought new

This quick snapshot shows why the A2485 is still considered one of the most balanced MacBooks Apple ever released.

Conclusion

The Apple MacBook Pro A2485 (2021, M1 Pro) was a milestone in Apple’s laptop lineup. Even today, it’s capable of handling demanding workloads, making it ideal for content creators, developers, and business professionals. While newer M2 and M3 models exist, this machine continues to be a reliable, future-proof, and cost-effective option—especially if you get it refurbished.

FAQs About Apple MacBook Pro A2485

1. Is the MacBook Pro A2485 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes. It still offers powerful performance, an incredible display, and long battery life—making it great for professionals, especially if bought at a reduced refurbished price.

2. How much does the MacBook Pro A2485 cost in India now?
New units are rare, but refurbished models cost between ₹1,20,000–₹1,50,000, depending on the configuration.

3. Can the MacBook Pro A2485 run the latest macOS?
Yes. It originally shipped with macOS Monterey but can be upgraded to macOS Sequoia (2025) without issues.

4. How does it compare to the MacBook Pro M2 Pro or M3 Pro?
The newer chips offer better performance and efficiency, but the A2485 still competes well and offers better value when bought refurbished.

5. Is the MacBook Pro A2485 good for gaming?
While not built for gaming, it can handle Apple Arcade and some macOS-supported titles. However, it’s primarily designed for creative and professional workloads, not AAA gaming.