Apple MacBook Pro 2020 13-inch: Release date, Price, Magic Keyboard and Specifications
Apple finally released the MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch). It’s one of the most awaited Apple products of 2020. Obviously, we can’t forget about its famous tag too- Apple’s smallest Macbook pro.
With an enhanced 10th generation with Ice Lake processor, a standard 16GB RAM (up to 32GB RAM), and storage options up to 4TB, things seem pretty ramped-up.
Certainly, Apple changed the butterfly keyboard in the new Macbook Pro 2020 with the Magic keyboard as you have seen in the Mackbook Pro (16-inch). Above all the new MacBook just got a slight bump in some hardware specs, not some major changes.
After the 16-inch MacBook Pro, MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) is considered as a popular Apple product among the Apple users and the geek world. Similarly, before the release of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch), we’re expecting a release of Macbook Pro 2020 (14-inch) first. However, sometimes things don’t work as we think but still have to manage.
There are some rumors about the new Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch). For example, it still got an 8th gen CPU. But what’s the truth, what features it consists of, what are the specifications, and how much it’ll cost?
iGeekfunnel created a comprehensive guide to answer all of your questions/queries about the MacbookPro 2020 (13-inch).
So, Let’s get started.
Macbook 2020 Release Date
Apple announced the MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) on Monday, May 4, 2020. It’s also appeared that the first shipment will be scheduled for Thursday, May 7, 2020. However, some higher-end configuration may not be placed before a certain date of Mid May.
Alongside this update, tech analyst Jon Prosser stated- 14-inch Macbook Pro could fall in 2020. He’s the guy who made Front Page Tech. And, he makes some pretty-accurate guesses about Apple products. On April 4, 2020, he actually shared the release date of 13-inch Macbook Pro, in his twitter post.
We can expect a new 14-inch Macbook Pro as Apple has already launched Macbook 13-inch in May 2020. Moreover, Digital trends stated a release of 14.1-inch Macbook this fall through some resources alongside a refreshed 16-inch Macbook Pro.
MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) Specifications
Probably, you’ve heard the rumors about the processor that new Macbook Pro still using an 8th generation processor. Well, we can’t say this statement is totally right or vice versa. Before going in detail, let’s get a brief of specifications that we’ll get in the new Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch).
Here’s a Specification table of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch):-
| Weight | 3.1 pounds | 3.1 pounds | 3.1 pounds | 3.1 pounds |
| CPU | 1.4-GHz quad-core 8th gen Intel Core i5 processor | 1.4 GHz quad-core 8th gen Intel Core i5 processor | 2 GHz quad-core 10th gen Intel Core i5 processor | 2 GHz quad-core 10th gen Intel Core i5 processor |
| RAM | 8GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 memory | 8GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 memory | 16GB 3733MHz LPDDR4X memory | 16GB 3733MHz LPDDR4X memory |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 1TB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Plus 645 | Intel Iris Plus 645 | Intel Iris Plus | Intel Iris Plus |
| Display | 13-inch Retina Display (2560 x 1600) | 13-inch Retina Display (2560 x 1600) | 13-inch Retina Display (2560 x 1600) | 13-inch Retina Display (2560 x 1600) |
| Ports | Two Thunderbolt 3 | Two Thunderbolt 3 | Four Thunderbolt 3 | Four Thunderbolt 3 |
| Size | 11.97 x 8.36 x 061 inches | 11.97 x 8.36 x 061 inches | 11.97 x 8.36 x 061 inches | 11.97 x 8.36 x 061 inches |
| Price | $1,299 | $1,499 | $1,799 | $1,999 |
1. Processor/CPU
As you can see in the table, Apple launched 4 models of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch). 2 basic models come with an 8th generation quad-core whiskey lake browser with a speed of 1.4-GHz. On the flip side, the other 2 models come with a 10th generation quad-core with an enhanced speed of 2 GHz. Apple didn’t reveal many details about the processors they’re using in the new Macbook. However, Nowadays every new Macbook comes with Intel Iris Graphics, so we can assume it would be running on the Ice Lake processor.
Some of the resources point out users won’t see a huge speed or performance difference, no matter they’re using 8 generations or 10 generations. However, Apple says that the 10th-gen quad-core chip comes with turbo boost speeds of up to 4.1GHz. Apple also added that customers will see up to 2.8x faster performance with the MacBook Pro which has a dual-core processor.
We checked out personally by visiting Apple Macbook Pro 2020 official page.
What we found is – The first two basic models come with 1.4GHz quad‑core 8th‑generation Intel Core i5 processor plus Turbo Boost of up to 3.9GHz with the price tag of $1,299. And, if you want to upgrade them as a 1.7GHz quad‑core 8th‑generation Intel Core i7 processor, with a Turbo Boost up to 4.5GHz, you can do that by paying an extra $300.00. Others 2 high-end Macbook Pro models 2.0GHz quad-core 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, with a Turbo, Boost of up to 3.8GHz. And you can upgrade them as a 2.3GHz quad-core 10th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, with a Turbo Boost up to 4.1GHz by paying an extra $200.00.
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2. GPU
Moreover, 10th generation chips have Intel Iris Plus Graphics version which is equal to better graphics performance.
Also, Tom’s guide stated that Macbook Pro 2020(13-inch) will deliver 80% better performance than its previous generation because of the Intel Iris Plus graphics on the graphics front. It’s also said that the new Macbook Pro delivers smoother 4K video, better gameplay with faster rendering.
On the other hand, the eighth-generation processors in the 2020 models use the same Iris Plus Graphics 645 as those in the 2019 edition.
Therefore, it’s concluded that the tenth-generation chips have a powerful GPU than the 8th generation. As a result, from the perspective of graphic performance, models with 10th generation chips are way better than models with 8th generation chips.
3. RAM
The basic two MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) models with 8th-generation Intel chips consist of an 8GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 RAM that can also be upgradable to 16GB by paying an extra $100. Moreover, the same amount of memory Apple provided in Macbook Pro 13-inch of 2019 but with an LPDDR4 version of it.
The other two high ends MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) models come with 10th-generation Intel chips include 16GB 3733MHz LPDDR4X RAM. Also, you can upgrade the 16GB RAM up to 32GB at an additional cost of $400. It’s the first time Apple include the memory of 32GB in a 13-inch Macbook Pro.
Therefore, if you go with Macbook Pro higher-end version you’ll see much better performance, due to its memory upgrade, especially if you compare it with the low-end version or with the Macbook Pro of 2019.
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4. Storage
First, we’ll talk about the two Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) low-end models. In one of the low-end models, you’ll get storage of a minimum 256GB SSD which is expandable up to 2TB with an additional cost. In another model, you’ll get a minimum of 512GB SSD storage which is also expandable up to 2TB with an additional cost. Apple made a significant improvement in Macbook Pro 2020. As in Macbook Pro 2019 (13-inch), the minimum storage was 128 GB SSD which was expandable up to 2TB.
In high-end models, the first model comes with a minimum memory of 512GB SSD and the second model will get minimum storage of 1TB SSD. Both models come with an expandable memory of up to 4TB with an additional cost.
We also noticed one thing while upgrading the first low-end model’s storage. You have to pay more bucks to purchase the same amount of memory in comparison to the second model. Same thing you’ll notice while upgrading the memory in high-end models.
5. Design, colors, and ports
It’s sad news for Apple users who’re waiting for Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch). Even more for the users who wanted a light & sleek Macbook to carry around freely and to fit it into their traveling needs.
Unfortunately, the new Macbook Pro doesn’t come with a sleek and light design. Even it’s a bit heavier than the Macbook Pro 2019. Furthermore, it comes with a 3.1 pounds and 0.61 thick body while the Macbook Pro 2019 has a body of 3.02 pounds and a thickness of 0.59 inches.
From the perspective of Design and looks, Both Macbook Pro doesn’t have much difference. While the new Macbook Pro comes with the dimensions of 304.1mm x 212.4mm x 15.6mm. On the other hand, Macbook Pro 2019 has dimensions of 304.1mm x 212.4mm x 14.9mm.
The new Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) comes with the same 2 colors (Silver and Grey) as the previous version.
The new Macbook Pro’s basic models come with Two Thunderbolt 3 ports and you’ll get Four Thunderbolt 3 ports which are the same as the Macbook Pro 2019 (13-inch).
6. Audio and Visual Upgrades
As we can already see, except few tweaks, Macbook Pro doesn’t consist of some major changes. Some of the features are just repeated as the previous version.
Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) comes with the same 13.3-inch 2,560×1,600 IPS Wide Color (P3) display as we’ve already seen in Macbook Pro 2019. The display also has the same True Tone feature as its previous version.
However, Apple made some updates in external display support of high-end models. They’re capable to run a 6k display with 60Hz or two 4K displays at 60Hz. While low-end models are able to run an external 5K monitor at 60Hz, and two 4K displays at 60Hz. The low-end models have the same external display support as the Macbook Pro 2019.
Also, Apple made some updates with the Stereo speakers of the new Macbook Pro. These stereo speakers now have a new “wide stereo sound” feature and a “Dolby Atmos playback support“. Apple also configured the three microphones by adding the new “directional beamforming” feature. The rest of the visual and audio features are almost the same as the previous Macbook Pro.
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7. MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) Magic keyboard
Let’s talk about the most awaiting feature of Macbook Pro 2020- Macbook Pro 2020 keyboard. Apple has changed Macbook Pro’s previous butterfly keyboard into an enhanced keyboard- Magic Keyboard. Certainly, it’s a piece of good news to hear is that all 4 models equipped with the new Magic Keyboard.
The previous butterfly keyboard was defamed by its problematic behavior. Finally, Apple changed it in Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) alongside the MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) and MacBook Air 2020. Moreover, this upgrade is considered as a major update by Apple, Also, senior director of Mac and iPad Product Marketing – Tom Boger quoted:-
“With these updates, our entire notebook lineup features the Magic Keyboard.”
Furthermore, the new Magic Keyboard features a redesigned scissor mechanism with 1mm of key travel. Even more, Apple introduces the new inverted-“T” arrangement for the arrow keys to make them easier to find. Besides these features, Apple also introduces a physical Escape key with Touch Bar and Touch ID in the new Magic Keyboard.
It seems like, Apple admitted and also improved some major issues of the previous butterfly keyboard so the user will get a comfortable, and reliable typing experience. Meanwhile, the new Magic Keyboard actually getting significant praise from its users. One of the Macworld’s reviewers use the New Magic Keyboard in 16in MacBook and praise by writing:-
“It’s softer on the fingers, and if you had sore fingers after a long typing session on the butterfly keyboard (like me), you won’t have that experience on the Magic Keyboard.”
8. MacBook Pro 2020 (13-inch) battery life
Come to the battery life of the new Macbook Pro. You’ll see almost no difference with its previous model. Apple still provides 58 or 58.2–watt-hour battery which is the same as we’re using in Macbook Pro 2019 (13-inch) version. Apple promises to give a battery life of up to 10 hours to wireless web usage and system playback as they claimed in Macbook Pro (13-inch) 2019. Hence a tech site named “Engadget” claimed they got a battery life of 11 hours and 33 minutes in their standard video rundown test.
In contrast, Apple Macbook Pro 2020 includes a 61W charger which is also the same as the Macbook Pro (13-inch) of 2019.
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9. Built-in Security and Privacy
New Macbook Pro comes with Apple’s own custom-designed second-generation silicon- Apple T2 Security Chip. Apple claims the T2 security chip provides an on-the-fly SSD data encryption, also delivers the boot process and computer storage in a secure way. Even more, the T2 security chip also protects Touch ID information while entering sensitive information e.g. entering a computer or social media’s profile passwords, while making an online transaction.
10. price and availability
There’re 4 models of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) – 2 Basic low-end models and 2 high-end expensive models. One basic model of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) starts with a minimum price tag of $1299 and the other one has a minimum starting price of $1499. However, you can upgrade both model’s CPU, RAM, and SSD with an additional cost. After maximum upgrading, both basic models will cost you the same which is $2499.
On the other hand, if we talk about high-end pc, they’ll jam more bucks from your budget. Likewise, the high-end models come with a starting price of $1799 and $1999 Simultaneously. And, after upgrading at its maximum, both models will cost you the same which is $3599.
Rather, Apple is giving a $100 discount to current and newly accepted college students, their parents, as well as faculty, staff, and homeschool teachers of all grade levels. If you’re one of them, you can purchase Macbook Pro at a discounted price by visiting Apple’s Education Store.
Also, all the 4 models come with a USB-C Charge Cable (2 m) and a 61W USB-C Power Adapter in their boxes.
You can get two pre-installed software in Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) with an additional cost. For Final Cut Pro X you’ve to pay $299.99 and in $199.99 you’ll get Logic Pro X.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Apple Store Pickup is currently unavailable. However, they’re providing no-contact 1-2 weeks free delivery of all models. However, you’ve to wait only 5-7 business days, if you’ll order the model with a price tag of $1499.
Therefore you can order online by visiting the official Buy Page of Apple’s Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch).
Final Words
Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) was one of the awaiting Apple’s products of 2020. Although some of the features are the same as its previous Macbook Pro (13-inch) 2019. As a result, we can say- except a few major changes like new Magic Keyboard Apple just made some tweaks in the new Macbook Pro. Above all, if you’ll buy the high-end models, you can expect more to get but the price is a considerable factor too.
Finally, here’s a comprehensive post on Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch). Tell us in the comments what feature you like most and what you wanted to see in Macbook Pro of 2020.
Here’s the first look of Macbook Pro 2020 (13-inch) by Verge.
