MacBook Pro Mid-2017 13"

The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 2.5 13-Inch (Mid-2017 Retina Display, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports) is a custom-ordered version of the MacBook Pro "Core i5" 2.3 13-Inch model from the same period, documented separately for user convenience. The processor is the only component that differentiates these two models.

This MacBook Pro is driven by a 14 nm, 7th Generation "Kaby Lake" 2.5 GHz Intel "Core i7" processor (7660U), featuring dual independent processor "cores" on a single chip, 64 MB of eDRAM on the processor die, and a 4 MB shared level 3 cache. It also includes 8 GB of non-upgradable 2133 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM (though a 16 GB option was available at purchase), either 128 GB or 256 GB of flash storage, and an integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 processor that shares system memory.

On the exterior, this notebook is equipped with an integrated 720p FaceTime HD webcam, a slim, backlit "second generation" butterfly mechanism keyboard, and a large "Force Touch" trackpad. It has a high-resolution 13.3-inch widescreen 2560x1600 (227 ppi, 500 nits) LED-backlit "Retina" display and an integrated battery with an estimated 10 hours of runtime.

Available in either silver or a darker "Space Gray" aluminum finish, this notebook weighs slightly over 3 pounds (1.37 kg).

For connectivity, it provides 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, two "Thunderbolt 3" ports (using the USB-C connector), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Compared to the model it succeeded, this version is externally identical but features a more advanced processor and architecture, and was introduced at a lower price point.

This build-to-order Core i7 version of the non-Touch Bar 2017 MacBook Pro was a niche choice for users who wanted maximum dual-core performance without the Touch Bar. The Kaby Lake processor provided a solid speed boost, making it a capable machine for everyday tasks and some demanding applications. It retained the traditional function keys, a preference for many professional users and developers. However, it was also saddled with the limitations of the base model, namely the two-port design and the controversial second-generation butterfly keyboard, which continued to face reliability concerns. It existed as a compromise, offering more power to a specific subset of users but without addressing the broader criticisms of the new design language.