For professionals seeking a powerful workstation without paying full price, renewed Mac Pro desktops stand out as compelling options. The Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon offers impressive multi-tasking and expandability, perfect for demanding workflows. Meanwhile, the Apple Mac Pro 12-Core Intel Xeon combines raw processing power with a sleek, compact design, suited for those who need performance in a smaller footprint. Both options deliver high-end features but come with tradeoffs like cosmetic imperfections or limited storage. Here’s how these two top picks compare for different professional needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The Mac Pro Quad Core excels in expandability and connectivity, making it ideal for demanding workflows requiring multiple peripherals.
- The 12-Core Mac Pro offers superior processing power, suited for intensive multitasking and complex computations.
- Both are refurbished, so cosmetic condition may vary, and they lack new warranties.
- Storage options differ significantly; consider your capacity needs before choosing.
- Pricing reflects their professional-grade specs, but each has unique advantages for specific workflows.
| Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon (ME253LL/A) 64GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best for expandability and high-performance professional workflows | Processor: Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon | RAM: 64GB DDR3 ECC SDRAM | Storage: 512GB SSD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5 2.7GHz 12-Core, 32GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best for raw processing power in a compact, streamlined design | Processor: 12-core 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5 | RAM: 32GB DDR3 ECC | Storage: 256GB PCIe SSD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| renewed mac pro desktop | Processor | RAM | Storage | Graphics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.7GHz | Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon | 64GB DDR3 ECC SDRAM | 512GB SSD | Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 each |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | 12-core 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5 | 32GB DDR3 ECC | 256GB PCIe SSD | Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 VRAM each |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon (ME253LL/A) 64GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed)
This refurbished Mac Pro features a 3.7GHz quad-core Xeon processor paired with 64GB of RAM, making it a robust choice for demanding applications. Compared with the 12-core model, it offers easier upgrade paths and more connectivity options, including six Thunderbolt 2 ports and multiple USB 3.0 ports. While its powerful specs support multitasking and large data projects, it’s important to note the cosmetic imperfections common in refurbishments and the absence of peripherals. This pick is ideal for users who prioritize expandability and a high-performance workstation, but less so for those needing extensive storage or a sleek design.
Pros:- High-performance quad-core Xeon processor
- 64GB RAM supports heavy multitasking
- Fast 512GB SSD for quick data access
- Multiple connectivity options for peripherals
Cons:- Refurbished condition may include cosmetic blemishes
- No included peripherals or accessories
- Limited to standard packaging
Best for: Professionals needing expandability, multiple peripherals, and a workstation that can grow with their needs
Not ideal for: Users who prefer a compact design or require large storage capacity upfront
- Processor:Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon
- RAM:64GB DDR3 ECC SDRAM
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Graphics:Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 each
- Connectivity:Six Thunderbolt 2 ports, 4 USB 3.0 ports, 1 HDMI 1.4 port
Our verdict“A versatile, high-performance workstation best suited for professionals who need expandability and robust multitasking capabilities.”
Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5 2.7GHz 12-Core, 32GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
This refurbished Mac Pro features a 12-core 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5 processor, paired with 32GB of ECC RAM and a 256GB PCIe SSD. It’s designed with a sleek cylindrical shape that saves space on your desk while packing serious processing punch. Unlike the quad-core model, this unit emphasizes raw compute power, making it suitable for complex calculations and multitasking. Its dual AMD FirePro D300 graphics ensure capable visual performance, but the limited storage may require external solutions for larger data needs. This model makes the most sense for professionals who prioritize processing power within a smaller footprint, though the higher price and modest storage are tradeoffs to consider.
Pros:- 12-core Intel Xeon processor offers high-speed multi-threaded performance
- Compact design fits easily on any desk
- Dual AMD FirePro D300 graphics support demanding graphics tasks
- Good multitasking with 32GB RAM
Cons:- Limited storage capacity at 256GB SSD
- Refurbished condition may show minimal signs of wear
- High price for the specifications
Best for: Power users needing intense processing in a compact, space-saving package
Not ideal for: Those needing large internal storage or expandability
- Processor:12-core 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5
- RAM:32GB DDR3 ECC
- Storage:256GB PCIe SSD
- Graphics:Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 VRAM each
- Connectivity:Six Thunderbolt 2, four USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac
Our verdict“A powerful, space-efficient workstation ideal for processing-intensive tasks where desk space is at a premium, but storage might need external support.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on refurbished Mac Pro models that balance performance, expandability, and value. We prioritized units with high specs, versatile connectivity, and positive reviews on reliability. Both models are certified refurbished, ensuring they meet Apple’s quality standards, but we also considered tradeoffs like potential cosmetic imperfections and storage limitations. The goal was to identify options that serve different types of professional users, from those needing maximum raw power to those valuing expandability and connectivity.
| renewed mac pro desktop | Graphics | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Mac Pro Quad Core 3.7GHz | Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 each | Six Thunderbolt 2 ports, 4 USB 3.0 ports, 1 HDMI 1.4 port |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | Dual AMD FirePro D300 with 2GB GDDR5 VRAM each | Six Thunderbolt 2, four USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Mac Pro Desktops
Choosing a renewed Mac Pro requires balancing raw power, expandability, storage, and design. Whether you need maximum processing capability, extensive connectivity, or a compact form factor, understanding these factors helps pinpoint the best fit for your professional needs.Performance Needs
If your work involves heavy multitasking, 3D rendering, or large data sets, the 12-core Mac Pro offers superior processing power. For those requiring a workstation that can handle demanding applications but with more flexibility for upgrades, the quad-core Xeon model provides a strong foundation with its higher RAM capacity and expandability.
Design and Space
The cylindrical Mac Pro is designed for minimal desk space while delivering high performance. If your workspace is limited, this model’s form factor is a compelling choice. Conversely, the traditional tower offers more internal expansion options but takes up more room.
Storage and Connectivity
Consider your storage needs carefully. The 512GB SSD on the quad-core model caters to users with large data requirements, while the 256GB SSD on the 12-core model might necessitate external drives. Connectivity options like Thunderbolt ports are crucial for peripherals, so check your device ecosystem compatibility before choosing.
Refurbished Condition and Price
All options are refurbished, which means cosmetic imperfections are possible, and warranties may be limited. The initial investment varies significantly; the 12-core model commands a higher price, reflecting its processing prowess, while the quad-core offers a more balanced performance-to-price ratio for most professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are renewed Mac Pro desktops reliable?
Yes, certified refurbished Mac Pro desktops go through thorough testing and certification by Apple or authorized refurbishers, ensuring they meet performance standards. While cosmetic imperfections might be present, their internal components are generally reliable, making them a good value for professionals who need high performance without the cost of new units.
What should I consider regarding storage in these refurbished models?
Storage capacity varies between the models, with the quad-core offering 512GB and the 12-core providing 256GB. If your work involves large files or data sets, you may need external drives or cloud storage solutions. Consider your storage needs carefully, as upgrading internal storage in refurbished units can be limited or costly.
Do refurbished Mac Pros support the latest peripherals?
Most refurbished Mac Pros include Thunderbolt 2 ports and USB 3.0, which are compatible with many current peripherals through adapters. However, for newer devices that require Thunderbolt 3 or 4, additional adapters or external hubs might be necessary. Compatibility depends on your peripheral ecosystem and future-proofing needs.
Is the performance difference significant between these two models?
Yes, the 12-core Mac Pro provides a notable advantage in raw processing power, especially for heavily threaded applications. The quad-core model benefits from higher RAM capacity and expandability, making it more flexible for various workflows. Your choice depends on whether processing speed or expandability is your priority.
What are the main tradeoffs of buying a refurbished Mac Pro?
Refurbished units generally come with cosmetic imperfections and limited warranties, but they offer significant cost savings. Internal components are tested and certified, ensuring functionality, but you should be prepared for potential minor signs of previous use. Storage upgrades may be limited, and support options could be narrower than new products.
Conclusion
For users prioritizing maximum processing power and a compact footprint, the 12-core Mac Pro makes a compelling choice, especially if internal storage is less critical. The quad-core Xeon model is better suited for professionals needing expandability, multiple peripherals, and higher RAM capacity, offering more versatility for evolving workflows. Budget-conscious buyers who are comfortable with refurbishments and potential cosmetic flaws will find these options valuable, while those requiring extensive storage or the latest connectivity might need to consider external solutions or newer models.
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