6 Best Alternatives to the Apple Mid 2017 MacBook Pro (2026)
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The Apple Mid 2017 MacBook Pro offers a sharp 15.4-inch Retina display and 16GB of RAM for reliable daily performance. If you are looking for apple mid macbook pro alternatives, you may want a different screen size, more storage, or a newer processor generation. This list compares seven laptops that share key specifications like Intel Core i7 processors and 16GB of memory. Each option overlaps with the original model in critical areas while offering distinct advantages in size, graphics, or connectivity. You might prefer a larger touchscreen for business tasks or a compact 14-inch frame for portability. Some users may need dedicated graphics for gaming or creative work, which the original model lacks. The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, ensuring they can handle similar workloads. Whether you prioritize a high-resolution QHD display, a larger SSD, or a lighter chassis, there is a suitable replacement. These choices provide practical upgrades or sideways shifts depending on your specific needs. You can find a device that matches your workflow without compromising on essential performance metrics. The following selections balance familiar capabilities with modern improvements.
Our top pick: Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro i7 16GB.
How Dell and MSI alternatives differ
Dell Inspiron 15.6" Touchscreen Core i7 Laptop
The Dell Inspiron 15.6 offers a 15.6-inch touchscreen, which is slightly larger than the MacBook’s 15.4-inch panel. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, doubling the storage capacity of the original 256GB model. This laptop weighs 4 pounds, matching the MacBook Pro’s weight closely. The touchscreen adds interaction options the MacBook lacks. You should choose this if you need more storage and touch input for business tasks. It gives up the MacBook’s high-resolution Retina display and premium build quality. The Intel Core i7 processor provides similar multitasking speed for everyday office work.
Dell Latitude 14-Inch Intel Core i7 Laptop
The Dell Latitude 14-inch is significantly more portable than the 15.4-inch MacBook Pro. It weighs only 3 pounds, compared to the MacBook’s 4.02 pounds. This model features an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 and 16GB of RAM. It offers a 14-inch screen, which is smaller but easier to carry. The Latitude provides modern connectivity options that the 2017 MacBook does not have. You should pick this if portability is your main priority. It gives up the larger screen and higher resolution display. The compact 14-inch frame suits users who travel frequently and need a lighter machine for daily productivity without sacrificing processing power.
MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop
The MSI Katana 15 HX is a gaming laptop with an RTX 5060 graphics card, far exceeding the MacBook’s AMD Radeon Pro 555. It features a 15.6-inch QHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate, providing smoother visuals for gaming. The 1TB SSD offers double the storage of the original MacBook. This machine weighs 5.29 pounds, making it heavier and less portable. You should choose this if you need dedicated graphics power for gaming or video editing. It gives up the MacBook’s thin profile and battery efficiency. The high-performance GPU and fast refresh rate make it ideal for gamers who prioritize visual fidelity and speed over portability.
Dell Latitude 14 Core i7 Laptop
The Dell Latitude 7420 is a lightweight 14-inch business laptop that weighs just 2.66 pounds. It is much lighter than the 4.02-pound MacBook Pro. It includes an 11th Gen Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The 14-inch screen is smaller than the MacBook’s 15.4-inch display. This model offers modern connectivity and a clean operating system experience. You should pick this if you value extreme portability and fast processing for business tasks. It gives up the larger, higher-resolution screen. The compact design and low weight make it ideal for professionals who carry their laptop daily and need a reliable, lightweight machine.
Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch Core i7
The Apple 16-inch MacBook Pro features a larger 16-inch Retina display, offering more screen real estate than the 15.4-inch model. It includes 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, doubling the storage capacity. This laptop weighs 4 pounds, similar to the original. It uses a dedicated AMD graphics card for creative work. You should choose this if you need a larger screen and better GPU performance for video editing or design. It gives up the compact 15.4-inch form factor. The larger display and improved graphics make it suitable for creative professionals who prioritize screen size and processing power over portability.
Dell Latitude 15.6" Core i7 Laptop
The Dell Latitude 5520 offers a 15.6-inch screen, which is slightly larger than the MacBook’s 15.4-inch panel. It includes an Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, and ample storage for business tasks. This laptop weighs 5 pounds, making it heavier and less portable than the MacBook Pro. The larger screen provides more space for multitasking. You should pick this if you prioritize screen size and processing power for stationary work. It gives up the MacBook’s high-resolution display and lighter weight. The robust build and large display suit professionals who do not carry their device often and need a powerful machine for daily office tasks.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro i7 16GB
Best for: Users needing high-res displays and 16GB RAM
- Graphics Card
- AMD Radeon Pro 555 / Intel HD 630
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-7700HQ 2.8GHz
- Memory
- 16GB 2133MHz LPDDR3
- Storage Capacity
- 256GB PCIe Flash Storage
- Screen Size
- 15.4"
- Display Resolution
- 2880-by-1800
View on Amazon: Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro i7 16GB Affiliate link
This renewed Apple MacBook Pro features a 15.4-inch display with 2880-by-1800 resolution. It uses a 2.8GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of LPDDR3 memory. The system includes a 256GB PCIe flash storage drive. It also has dual graphics with an AMD Radeon Pro 555. This laptop suits users who need high-resolution visuals and solid processing power for everyday tasks.
Pros
- 15.4-inch IPS display with 2880-by-1800 resolution
- 2.8GHz quad-core Intel Core i7-7700HQ processor
- 16GB of 2133MHz LPDDR3 onboard memory
- Discrete AMD Radeon Pro 555 graphics with 2GB GDDR5
- 256GB PCI-E based flash memory storage
Cons
- 256GB storage capacity is smaller than higher-end alternatives
- 11th Gen Intel processors in other options offer newer architecture
- Bluetooth 4.2 is an older standard compared to newer versions
Good fit if
- You prioritize a high-resolution Retina display for visual work
- You need 16GB of RAM for multitasking
- You want a discrete GPU for light creative tasks
Skip if
- You require the latest generation Intel processors
- You need more than 256GB of internal storage
- You prefer Bluetooth 5.0 or newer connectivity
Verdict: Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro i7 16GB delivers sharp visuals and reliable performance for users who value display quality and sufficient memory. It fits those who do not need the newest processor generation or large storage capacity.
Dell Inspiron 15.6" Touchscreen Core i7 Laptop
Best for: Business users needing a large touchscreen
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1355U
- Memory
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB PCIe SSD
- Screen Size
- 15.6"
- Display Resolution
- 1920x1080 FHD
- Use
- Business
View on Amazon: Dell Inspiron 15.6" Touchscreen Core i7 Laptop Affiliate link
This Dell Inspiron offers a 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen paired with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM. It includes 512GB of PCIe SSD storage and runs Windows 11 Home with Copilot AI. The device provides solid multitasking performance for business tasks and everyday productivity. It suits users who need a reliable, modern laptop with a responsive display and ample memory for open applications.
Pros
- 13th Gen Intel Core i7-1355U with 10 cores
- 15.6-inch FHD (1920x1080) touchscreen display
- 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- 512GB PCIe SSD for fast storage
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
Cons
- HDMI 1.4 port limits high-resolution external displays
- 4-pound weight is heavier than 14-inch competitors
- Lacks a dedicated graphics card for gaming
Good fit if
- You need a responsive touchscreen for navigation
- You require 16GB RAM for heavy multitasking
- You want a 15.6-inch screen for workspace
Skip if
- You need a lightweight laptop under 3.5 pounds
- You require dedicated graphics for gaming
- You prefer a 14-inch compact form factor
Verdict: Dell Inspiron 15.6 Touchscreen i7 is a capable business laptop for users who prioritize screen real estate and multitasking speed over portability. It fits professionals who need a large, responsive display and strong processing power for daily office tasks.
Dell Latitude 14-Inch Intel Core i7 Laptop
Best for: portable productivity and modern connectivity
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1185G7
- Memory
- 16GB DDR4
- Screen Size
- 14"
- Display Resolution
- 1920x1080
- Dimensions
- 13.6 × 12 × 4.13 inches
- Weight
- 3 pounds
View on Amazon: Dell Latitude 14-Inch Intel Core i7 Laptop Affiliate link
This Dell Latitude 5420 replaces your aging 2017 MacBook Pro with modern performance. It features an 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1185G7 processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. The 14-inch FHD display offers 1920x1080 resolution for clear visuals. A 512GB NVMe SSD ensures fast file access. It weighs 3 pounds and includes Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. This laptop suits users needing reliable productivity and portability without the premium Apple price tag.
Pros
- 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1185G7 processor
- 16GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
- 512GB M.2 NVMe SSD storage
- 14-inch FHD 1920x1080 display
- Thunderbolt 4 and USB 3.1 ports
Cons
- 14-inch screen is smaller than the 15.4-inch MacBook Pro
- Non-touch display limits interaction options
- Certified refurbished condition may show wear
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight laptop under 3 pounds
- You require fast SSD storage for large files
- You want Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for peripherals
Skip if
- You prefer a 15-inch or larger display
- You require a touchscreen interface
- You insist on brand-new retail packaging
Verdict: Dell Latitude 5420 14-inch i7 delivers solid 11th Gen performance in a compact 14-inch frame. It is a practical upgrade for users who prioritize portability and modern connectivity over a larger screen size.
MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop
Best for: Gaming with high-resolution visuals
- Graphics Card
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-14650HX
- Memory
- 16GB DDR5
- Storage Capacity
- 1TB NVMe SSD
- Screen Size
- 15.6"
- Refresh Rate
- 165Hz
View on Amazon: MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop Affiliate link
The MSI Katana 15 HX offers a 15.6-inch QHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. It pairs an Intel Core i7-14650HX processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU and 16GB of DDR5 memory. This configuration targets gamers who need smooth visuals and strong processing power for modern titles.
Pros
- 15.6-inch QHD (1440p) display with 165Hz refresh rate
- Intel Core i7-14650HX processor for fast performance
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU with ray tracing support
- 100% DCI-P3 wide-gamut color accuracy
- 1TB NVMe SSD storage capacity
Cons
- 5.29-pound weight makes it less portable than ultrabooks
- 0.99-inch thickness adds bulk to your bag
- 16GB RAM may limit heavy multitasking compared to 32GB options
Good fit if
- You want a high-resolution 1440p screen for sharper visuals
- You need ray tracing capabilities for modern gaming
- You prefer a wide color gamut for creative work
Skip if
- You need a lightweight laptop under 4 pounds
- You require more than 16GB of RAM for professional workflows
- You are looking for a business-focused ultrabook with all-day battery life
Verdict: MSI Katana 15 HX RTX 5060 delivers a sharp 1440p 165Hz display and strong RTX 5060 performance for gamers who prioritize visual fidelity over portability.
Dell Latitude 14 Core i7 Laptop
Best for: Business users needing portability and speed
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1165G7
- Memory
- 16GB
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 15.6"
- Display Resolution
- 1920x1080
- Dimensions
- 12.7 × 8.4 × 0.76 inches
View on Amazon: Dell Latitude 14 Core i7 Laptop Affiliate link
The Dell Latitude 7420 is a 14-inch business laptop built for productivity. It features an 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor and 16GB of RAM. The 512GB SSD provides ample storage. You get a 1080p anti-glare display and Intel Iris Xe graphics. This machine runs Windows 11 without bloatware. It suits users needing reliable performance for everyday tasks and light workloads.
Pros
- 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor up to 4.70GHz
- 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
- 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD for fast storage
- 14-inch FHD anti-glare display
- Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 connectivity
Cons
- 250-nits display brightness is lower than typical premium screens
- No touchscreen capability on the display
- 90-day warranty is shorter than standard new device coverage
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight 14-inch laptop for travel
- You require strong multitasking with 16GB RAM
- You want a clean Windows 11 installation
Skip if
- You need a high-brightness screen for outdoor use
- You require a touchscreen for direct input
- You prefer a standard one-year warranty
Verdict: Dell Latitude 7420 i7 14-inch delivers solid performance for business and daily tasks. You should choose this if you prioritize portability and a clean OS over high-end display features.
Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch Core i7
Best for: creative pros needing large screen and AMD GPU
- Graphics Card
- AMD Radeon Pro 5300M
- Processor
- 2.6GHz Intel Core i7
- Memory
- 16GB DDR4
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 16"
- Display Resolution
- 3072 x 1920
View on Amazon: Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch Core i7 Affiliate link
This 16-inch MacBook Pro features a 2.6 GHz Intel Core i7 6-Core processor and 16GB of 2666 MHz DDR4 RAM. It includes a 512GB SSD and an AMD Radeon Pro 5300M GPU with 4GB GDDR6 memory. The display offers a 3072 x 1920 Retina resolution with P3 color gamut. You get a 4-pound Space Gray laptop. It suits users needing a large screen and strong specs for creative work.
Pros
- 16-inch 3072 x 1920 Retina Display with P3 color gamut
- AMD Radeon Pro 5300M GPU with 4GB GDDR6 memory
- 16GB of 2666 MHz DDR4 RAM
- 512GB SSD storage
Cons
- Older Intel Core i7 6-Core processor
- Heavier 4-pound build compared to modern ultrabooks
- Renewed condition may have cosmetic wear
Good fit if
- You need a large 16-inch screen for detailed work
- You require dedicated AMD Radeon graphics for creative apps
- You want 16GB RAM for multitasking
Skip if
- You prefer the latest processor generations
- You need a lightweight laptop for frequent travel
- You want a brand new device with full warranty
Verdict: Apple 16" MacBook Pro Late 2019 offers a large Retina display and dedicated AMD graphics for creative professionals. It fits users who prioritize screen real estate and GPU power over the newest CPU tech.
Dell Latitude 15.6" Core i7 Laptop
Best for: Users prioritizing screen size and CPU power
- Graphics Card
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Processor
- Intel Core i7-1185G7
- Memory
- 16GB DDR4
- Storage Capacity
- 512GB SSD
- Screen Size
- 15.6-Inch
- Display Resolution
- 1920 x 1080 FHD
View on Amazon: Dell Latitude 15.6" Core i7 Laptop Affiliate link
The Dell Latitude 5520 offers a 15.6-inch FHD anti-glare display paired with an 11th Gen Intel vPro Core i7 processor. It includes 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD for responsive performance. This business laptop targets users who need reliable daily computing power. It serves as a practical alternative to older Apple models, providing modern specs in a familiar 15-inch form factor.
Pros
- 11th Gen Intel vPro Core i7 processor
- 16GB DDR4 RAM for multitasking
- 512GB NVMe SSD for fast storage
- 15.6-inch Full HD anti-glare display
Cons
- Heavier at 5 pounds compared to 14-inch rivals
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics limits gaming
- Thicker chassis at 0.78 inches height
Good fit if
- You need a large 15.6-inch screen for productivity
- You prioritize processing power over portability
- You want a business-class build with vPro security
Skip if
- You require dedicated graphics for heavy gaming
- You need a lightweight laptop under 4 pounds
- You prefer a 14-inch compact form factor
Verdict: Dell Latitude 5520 15.6" i7 delivers strong processing power and ample storage for users who value screen real estate. It suits professionals who carry their device less often and need a robust, large-display machine for daily tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Apple 15.4" MacBook Pro i7 16GB | Dell Inspiron 15.6" Touchscreen Core i7 Laptop | Dell Latitude 14-Inch Intel Core i7 Laptop | MSI Katana 15 HX 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop | Dell Latitude 14 Core i7 Laptop | Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch Core i7 | Dell Latitude 15.6" Core i7 Laptop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphics Card | AMD Radeon Pro 555 / Intel HD 630 | not specified | not specified | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 | not specified | AMD Radeon Pro 5300M | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-7700HQ 2.8GHz | Intel Core i7-1355U | Intel Core i7-1185G7 | Intel Core i7-14650HX | Intel Core i7-1165G7 | 2.6GHz Intel Core i7 | Intel Core i7-1185G7 |
| Memory | 16GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 | 16GB | 16GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR5 | 16GB | 16GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR4 |
| Storage Capacity | 256GB PCIe Flash Storage | 512GB PCIe SSD | not specified | 1TB NVMe SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| Screen Size | 15.4" | 15.6" | 14" | 15.6" | 15.6" | 16" | 15.6-Inch |
| Refresh Rate | not specified | not specified | not specified | 165Hz | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Display Resolution | 2880-by-1800 | 1920x1080 FHD | 1920x1080 | QHD (1440p) | 1920x1080 | 3072 x 1920 | 1920 x 1080 FHD |
| Storage | not specified | 512GB SSD | not specified | 1TB SSD | 512GB SSD | not specified | 512GB SSD |
| Use | not specified | Business | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Business |
| Size | 15.4" | 512GB | i7-1185G7-16-512-Win11 | 1TB | 7420 | i7-1165G7 | 16GB RAM | 512GB SSD | 16GB RAM | 512GB Storage | not specified |
| Dimensions | 14 × 10 × 0.71 inches | 14.2 × 0.78 × 9.25 inches | 13.6 × 12 × 4.13 inches | 14.1 × 0.99 × 10.3 inches | 12.7 × 8.4 × 0.76 inches | not specified | 22.2 × 15.4 × 4.7 inches |
| Weight | 4.02 pounds | 4 pounds | 3 pounds | 5.29 pounds | 2.66 pounds | 4 pounds | 5 pounds |
| Length | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 14.1 inches | not specified |
| Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 9.68 inches | not specified |
| Color | Space Gray | Black | Black | Black | Black | Space Gray | Black |
| Model | MPTR2LL/A | not specified | Dell 5420 i7 Laptop | KAT15HXB14810 | Dell Latitude 7420 | MVVL2LL/A | Latitude 5520 |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the best display quality for creative work?
The Apple 15.4-inch MacBook Pro with 16GB RAM delivers sharp visuals for users who value display quality. It fits those who do not need the newest processor generation or large storage capacity. The Dell 16-inch MacBook Pro also offers a large Retina display and dedicated AMD graphics for creative professionals.
Can I find a lightweight option under 3 pounds?
Yes, the Dell Latitude 14-inch Core i7 Laptop weighs only 2.66 pounds. It delivers solid performance for business and daily tasks. You should choose this if you prioritize portability and a clean OS over high-end display features. It is a practical upgrade for users who prioritize portability.
Is there a gaming laptop with a high refresh rate?
The MSI Katana 15 HX features a 1440p 165Hz display and RTX 5060 graphics. It delivers sharp visuals and strong performance for gamers who prioritize visual fidelity over portability. This laptop weighs 5.29 pounds and includes a 1TB SSD for ample storage.
Which laptop has the largest screen size?
The Dell Latitude 15.6-inch Core i7 Laptop offers a large 15.6-inch screen. It delivers strong processing power and ample storage for users who value screen real estate. It suits professionals who carry their device less often and need a robust, large-display machine for daily tasks.
Do these alternatives include 16GB of RAM?
Most listed alternatives include 16GB of RAM for reliable multitasking. The Apple 15.4-inch, Dell Inspiron 15.6, Dell Latitude 14-inch, MSI Katana 15 HX, Dell Latitude 14-inch (7420), and Dell Latitude 15.6-inch all feature 16GB RAM. This ensures sufficient memory for daily office tasks and productivity.
Which model is best for business users needing a touchscreen?
The Dell Inspiron 15.6-inch Touchscreen Core i7 Laptop is a capable business laptop for users who prioritize screen real estate. It includes a large, responsive display and strong processing power for daily office tasks. It weighs 4 pounds and features a 512GB SSD.
Is there a portable option with modern connectivity?
The Dell Latitude 5420 14-inch i7 delivers solid 11th Gen performance in a compact frame. It is a practical upgrade for users who prioritize portability and modern connectivity over a larger screen size. It weighs 3 pounds and includes a 14-inch display.