Background and Identification

Apple's first Retina display 13" MacBook Pro was released in late 2012. The Retina display model was the first significant upgrade to the 13 inch MacBook Pro since its release in 2009, signifying the 3rd generation of MacBook Pro models. Retina display was advertised as having so many pixels that the human eye could not discern them, and likewise this upgraded screen was the main selling point for this model. Other changes from the previous version of the MacBook Pro include a thinner MagSafe 2 charging port, a thinner bezel, an HDMI port, soldered memory, adhesive holding the battery to the chassis, and the lack of an optical drive.

Also included in the MacBook Pro Retina category is the newer Touch Bar model, which was released in 2016. These models came with a thin OLED touch screen just above the keyboard, taking the place of the function keys. These models excluded all of the previous ports included on the past model, in exchange for four USB-C ports, which would be used for everything including charging. Users would have to employ other connection standards like HDMI or USB-A through use of a dongle, or cable converter. This model also came with the infamous “butterfly keyboard” and a significantly larger trackpad.

Users can find help with identifying their MacBook Pro laptops here.

The most often replaced MacBook Pro 13" Retina display parts include the battery, screen, and SSD.

Additional Information