Important Notes for 2016 Touch Bar Users

If you have a 2016 model, be aware of some significant flaws. The introduction of the Touch Bar was met with mixed reviews; many users found it problematic. As an IT professional, I have dealt with numerous MacBooks from this era and can attest to the issues.

The 2016 MacBook Pro featured a new butterfly keyboard design that was notoriously flat, leading to frequent malfunctions. Additionally, the display cable was too short, which could cause dislodging when the screen was tilted back, resulting in a spotlight effect, as shown in the image below:

If you experience this issue, contact Apple for repairs, provided there's no physical damage. During my work, I sent in numerous 2016 models for repairs, with 70% attributed to keyboard problems and 30% related to display issues.

Updates for 2017 Touch Bar Users

If you own a 2017 model, you may find it slightly more reliable than the 2016 version. Apple made minor improvements to the display cable, but the butterfly keyboard remained a significant source of frustration. I frequently handled repairs for keyboard malfunctions (70%), USB-C port issues (20%), and a few display problems (10%).

Improvements in the 2018 Touch Bar

The 2018 model offered a noticeable upgrade over its predecessors, featuring improved butterfly keyboards and a more reliable display. However, some issues persisted. Common repairs included the display, keyboard, USB-C ports, and battery checks. Always monitor the battery icon when charging; a lightning bolt indicates charging, while an outlet symbol suggests a potential battery issue.

2019 Touch Bar: The Best of the Bunch

The 2019 MacBook Pro Touch Bar marked a significant improvement, particularly with its keyboard and display. While I still encountered some issues requiring repairs, the overall performance was satisfactory compared to earlier models.

The Best MacBook Touch Bar: A Look Ahead

The 2020 models, featuring the return of the Apple Magic Keyboard, have garnered positive feedback. The absence of the Touch Bar in 2021 models is also a welcomed change for many users. With new Apple Silicon Macs on the horizon, it’s an excellent time to think about upgrading.

Critical Recommendations for MacBook Users

If you're facing issues, remember to BACK UP your DATA first! As an IT technician, I often see clients distressed after losing years of important files due to a crash. If you need to take your MacBook to Apple, they might wipe your data, so backups are essential.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with SMC and NVRAM reset procedures, but only after securing your data. For more details, click here to learn how to perform these resets.

When considering new purchases, always opt for fourth or fifth-generation technology. The M1 series is impressive, but the M1 Pro, M1 Max, and M1 Ultra offer even better performance. Wait for the M2 and M3 series, as they will likely provide the best value for your investment.

I hope this information has been helpful! If you have questions about the MacBook Pro Touch Bar models from 2016 to 2019, feel free to comment below. I’ll do my best to respond, though my full-time job may limit my availability. Thank you for reading, and have a great day!