MacBook Pro Mid-2017 15" (Touch Bar)

The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 3.1 15-Inch (Mid-2017) is a custom-ordered version of either the "Core i7" 2.8 or 2.9 15-Inch models from the same series, but is also listed as a separate model for clarity. Apart from the processor, these models can be configured identically.

This model is powered by a 14 nm, 7th Generation "Kaby Lake" 3.1 GHz Intel "Core i7" processor (7920HQ) with four independent cores, an 8 MB shared L3 cache, and 16 GB of non-upgradable 2133 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM. It includes 256 GB or 512 GB of onboard flash storage (storage was upgradable at purchase, but RAM was not) and dual graphics processors—either an AMD Radeon Pro 555 with 2 GB of GDDR5 memory or an AMD Radeon Pro 560 with 4 GB of GDDR5 memory, plus an integrated Intel HD Graphics 630.

Externally, it features a 720p FaceTime HD webcam, a slim backlit "second generation" butterfly keyboard with an integrated "Touch Bar," and a large "Force Touch" trackpad. The Touch Bar is a touch-sensitive control that adapts to applications and provides Touch ID login.

It also has a high-resolution 15.4" widescreen 2880x1800 (220 ppi, 500 nits) LED-backlit "Retina" display and a battery with an estimated 10-hour life.

Available in silver or "Space Gray" aluminum, it weighs slightly over 4 pounds (1.83 kg). Connectivity includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, four "Thunderbolt 3" ports (USB-C), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Compared to its predecessor, this model is almost identical externally but features a more advanced processor and architecture.

As the highest-end custom configuration, the Mid-2017 15-inch MacBook Pro with a 3.1 GHz 'Kaby Lake' Core i7 processor and Radeon Pro 560 graphics offered the peak performance available in a Mac notebook at the time. It provided a significant speed advantage for demanding professional workflows compared to the standard configurations. While externally identical to the 2016 model, this update was purely about internal power, delivering faster processing and graphics capabilities. It inherited both the strengths and weaknesses of its predecessor: the brilliant Retina display and fast SSD were highlights, but the reliance on only four Thunderbolt 3 ports, the shallow butterfly keyboard, and the contentious Touch Bar remained key discussion points among users.