Apple MacBook Pro 15-Inch 'Core i9' 2.9 Touch/2018 Specs
Microsoft’s new Surface Book 3 laptops are here, promising even better specs than ever before, with Intel’s 10th-Gen processors, new Nvidia GPUs, and more RAM. Here’s how the specs compare. MacOS Catalina (version 10.15) is the sixteenth major release of macOS, Apple Inc.' S desktop operating system for Macintosh computers. It is the successor to macOS Mojave and was announced at WWDC 2019 on June 3, 2019 and released to the public on October 7, 2019.
Identifiers: Mid-2018 15' (Touch Bar) - BTO/CTO - MacBookPro15,1 - A1990 - 3215
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All MacBook Pro 15-Inch Models | All 2018 Models | Dynamically Compare This Mac to Others
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The MacBook Pro 'Core i9' 2.9 15-Inch (Mid-2018 True Tone Display, Touch Bar, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports) technically is a 'configure-to-order' configuration of either the MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.2 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018 or MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.6 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018, but also is documented as a separate model for reader convenience. Other than processor, these models can be configured identically.
The MacBook Pro 'Core i9' 2.9 15-Inch (Mid-2018 True Tone Display, Touch Bar, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports) is powered by a 14 nm, 8th Generation 'Coffee Lake' 2.9 GHz Intel 'Core i9' processor (8950HK), with six independent processor 'cores' on a single silicon chip, a 12 MB shared level 3 cache, 16 GB of onboard 2400 MHz LPDDR4 SDRAM -- which could be upgraded to 32 GB at the time of purchase, but cannot be upgraded later -- either 256 GB or 512 GB of onboard flash storage standard, and dual graphics processors -- either an AMD Radeon Pro 555X or 560X with 4 GB of dedicated GDDR5 memory -- as well as an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics processor that shares memory with the system.
Externally, this notebook has an integrated 720p FaceTime HD webcam, a thin, backlit 'third generation' butterfly mechanism keyboard with an integrated 'Touch Bar' touch-sensitive control that adapts for different applications and provides Touch ID login support in lieu of traditional function keys, and a gigantic 'Force Touch' trackpad.
Additionally, it has a high-resolution LED-backlit 15.4' widescreen 2880x1800 (220 ppi, 500 nits) 'Retina' display with True Tone technology, and a integrated battery that provides an Apple estimated 10 hours of runtime.
This notebook is offered in either silver colored aluminum or a darker 'Space Gray' colored aluminum housing (but not other colors) and weighs just a bit more than 4 pounds (1.83 kg).
Connectivity includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, four 'Thunderbolt 3' ports (USB-C connector), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Compared to its predecessor, this model has an improved display and keyboard as well as a more advanced processor and architecture and the option of twice as much RAM and storage by custom configuration.
Also see:
- What are all the differences between the 13-Inch and 15-Inch 'Mid-2018' MacBook Pro models? (In-Depth)
- What are all the differences between the 'Mid-2018' MacBook Pro models and the 'Mid-2017' models replaced? (In-Depth)
- What are the 'pros and cons' of the 'Touch Bar' MacBook Pro models? Is one right for me? (Quick Read)
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- Tech Specs
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Click on a category for related details. The most commonly needed info is 'open' by default, but all info is important. Asterisks (*) reference data in details fields.
| Introduction Date: | July 12, 2018 | Discontinued Date: | May 21, 2019 |
| Details: | The 'Introduction Date' refers to the date a model was introduced via press release. The 'Discontinued Date' refers to the date a model either was replaced by a subsequent system or production otherwise ended.
Also see: All Macs introduced in 2018. |
| Details: | Also see: All models with a 64-Bit processor courtesy of EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Sort. |
| Details: | Geekbench 2 benchmarks are in 32-bit and 64-bit modes, respectively. These numbers reflect an average of user provided 32-bit and 64-bit results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 32-bit and 64-bit Geekbench 2 user submissions for Macs with the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 2 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Details: | These Geekbench 3 benchmarks are in 32-bit mode and are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 32-bit single core and multicore Geekbench 3 user submissions for Macs with the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare 32-bit Geekbench 3 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Details: | These Geekbench 3 benchmarks are in 64-bit mode and are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 64-bit single core and multicore Geekbench 3 user submissions for Macs with the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare 64-bit Geekbench 3 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Details: | These Geekbench 4 benchmarks are are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. All Geekbench 4 benchmarks are 64-bit. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all single core and multicore Geekbench 4 user submissions for Macs with the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 4 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Details: | These Geekbench 5 benchmarks are are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. All Geekbench 5 benchmarks for the Mac are 64-bit. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all single core and multicore Geekbench 5 user submissions for Macs with the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 5 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Processor Speed: | 2.9 GHz | Processor Type: | Core i9 (I9-8950HK) |
| Details: | This model is powered by a 14 nm, 64-bit 'Eighth Generation' Intel Mobile Core i9 'Coffee Lake' (I9-8950HK) processor which includes six independent processor 'cores' on a single silicon chip. Each core has a dedicated 256k level 2 cache, shares 12 MB of level 3 cache, and has an integrated memory controller (dual channel).
This system also supports 'Turbo Boost 2.0' -- which 'automatically increases the speed of the active cores' to improve performance when needed (up to 4.8 GHz for this model) -- and 'Hyper Threading' -- which allows the system to recognize twelve total 'cores' or 'threads' (six real and six virtual).
Additionally, this MacBook Pro has a secondary 'T2' processor for 'enhanced security,' which includes secure boot and encrypted storage capabilities as well as enhanced image processing.
Also see: How fast are the 'Mid-2018' MacBook Pro models compared to one another? How fast are they compared to the models replaced? |
| Details: | Also see: Can you upgrade the processor in the Retina Display MacBook Pro models? |
| System Bus Speed: | 8 GT/s (DMI3)* | Cache Bus Speed: | 2.9 GHz (Built-in) |
| Details: | *This system has a 'Direct Media Interface' -- specifically DMI3 -- that 'connects between the processor and chipset' in lieu of a traditional system bus. Intel reports that it runs at 8 GT/s. |
| Details: | *Each core has its own dedicated 256k level 2 cache and the system has 12 MB of shared level 3 cache. |
| Details: | Ships standard with 16 GB of 2400 MHz DDR4 SDRAM onboard. |
| Details: | *By default, 16 GB of RAM is onboard. It could be upgraded to 32 GB of RAM at the time of system purchase, but it cannot be upgraded later.
Also see: Actual Max RAM of All G3 & Later Macs. |
| Details: | There are no RAM slots. 16 GB of RAM is onboard. It could be upgraded to 32 GB of RAM at the time of system purchase, but it cannot be upgraded later. |
| Details: | *This model has dual graphics processors. Depending on its base configuration, it either has AMD Radeon Pro 555X or 560X with 4 GB of dedicated GDDR5 SDRAM and an Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics processor that shares system memory. Starting on November 14, 2018, Apple added AMD Radeon Pro Vega 16 and Radeon Pro Vega 20 graphics processors, both with 4 GB of HBM2 memory, as optional upgrades at the time of system purchase for an additional US$250 and US$350, respectively.
The system automatically switches between graphics systems based on use (when applications use OpenGL, Core Graphics or other graphically demanding technologies, the system will use the dedicated AMD graphics, otherwise it will use the integrated Intel graphics to conserve battery life). |
| Details: | The AMD Radeon Pro 555X or 560X graphics processor each have 4 GB of dedicated GDDR5 memory. The 'integrated' Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics processor shares memory with the system for graphics function.
*On October 30, 2018, Apple quietly noted in a MacBook Air press release that it would be possible to upgrade this MacBook Pro model to Radeon Pro Vega graphics in the future and the company began to offer this option on November 14, 2018. Specifically, if this BTO/CTO option starts as the higher-end MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.6 15' Touch/Mid-2018 (MR942LL/A) and is customized with a faster processor accordingly, the stock graphics also can be upgraded to a Radeon Pro Vega 16 or Radeon Pro Vega 20, either with 4 GB of HBM2 memory, for an additional US$250 or US$350, respectively. |
| Built-in Display: | 15.4' Widescreen | Native Resolution: | 2880x1800 |
| Details: | This model has a 15.4' color widescreen LED-backlit display with IPS technology with a 2880 by 1800 native resolution at 220 ppi (178-degree viewing angle). It has a brightness rating of 500 nits and a wide color gamut (P3), and True Tone technology, as well. It also supports scaled resolutions of 1920 by 1200, 1680 by 1050, 1280 by 800, and 1024 by 640.
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| 2nd Display Support: | Dual/Mirroring* | 2nd Max. Resolution: | 5120x2880 x2* |
| Details: | *In addition to simultaneous support of the internal display, this model supports a maximum resolution up to 5120x2880 at 60 Hz at over a billion colors on up to two external displays or up to 4096x2304 resolution at 60 Hz at over a billion colors on up to four external displays via Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C). |
| Standard Storage: | 256, 512 GB SSD* | Std. Storage Speed: | N/A |
| Details: | *By default, this model shipped with a 256 GB or 512 GB SSD, but it could be upgraded at the time of purchase to 1 TB, 2 TB, or 4 TB at additional cost.
Also see: What SSD storage options are available for the 'Touch Bar' MacBook Pro models? Is it even possible to upgrade the storage?
Also see: SSD Compatibility Guide for All G3 & Later Macs. |
| Storage Dimensions: | Soldered | Storage Interface: | Onboard* |
| Details: | *This model has onboard PCIe 3.0-based storage that cannot be upgraded. |
| Details: | *This MacBook Pro does not have an internal optical drive. Furthermore, using it with the increasingly vintage external Apple SuperDrive requires an adapter. |
| Details: | *This model does not have an internal Ethernet port.
Also see: How do you connect the 'Touch Bar' MacBook Pro to a wired Ethernet network? Is it even possible? |
| Details: | 802.11ac Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n compatible) and Bluetooth 5.0 standard. |
| Details: | *This model has four Thunderbolt 3 ports (USB-C connector) that also support the USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard (up to 10 Gbps). |
| Details: | This model does not have any expansion slots or bays.
In the US (and many other countries), site sponsor Other World Computing sells a wide variety of external expansion options and accessories, including docks, adapters, cables, input devices, cases, and more for this MacBook Pro.
In Australia, site sponsor Macfixit offers an extensive selection of external expansion options and accessories like docks, stands, chargers, cases, security products, and more for this MacBook Pro. |
| Incl. Keyboard: | Full-size | Incl. Input: | Trackpad (Force Touch) |
| Details: | Apple reports that the 'improved third-generation' integrated keyboard has '64 (US) or 65 (ISO) keys, including 4 arrow keys' as well as a customizable 'Touch Bar' with integrated Touch ID login support. It has an ambient light sensor, too.
The 'Force Touch' trackpad offers 'precise cursor control and pressure-sensing capabilities; enables Force clicks, accelerators, pressure-sensitive drawing, and Multi-Touch gestures.' |
| Case Type: | Notebook | Form Factor: | 15' MacBook Pro (Touch Bar) |
| Details: | This MacBook Pro uses a thin black and silver or black and dark 'Space Gray' 'unibody' case design milled from a single piece of aluminum with a 'catchless' magnetic latch. It does have integrated 'Touch Bar' capability with Touch ID login support. |
| Apple Order No: | BTO/CTO | Apple Subfamily: | Mid-2018 15' (Touch Bar) |
| Details: | Because this model is a custom configuration of either the MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.2 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018 or MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.6 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018, it does not have its own order number.
In some locations, Apple just refers to this model as the 'MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018).' |
| Apple Model No: | A1990 (EMC 3215) | Model ID: | MacBookPro15,1 |
| Details: | Please note that these identifiers refer to more than one model.
Also see: All Macs with the A1990 Model Number, the 3215 EMC Number, and the MacBookPro15,1 Model Identifier.
For more about these identifiers and how to locate them on each Mac, please refer to EveryMac.com's Mac Identification section. |
| Battery Type: | 83.6 W h Li-Poly | Battery Life: | 10 Hours |
| Details: | Apple reports that this model has a '83.6-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery' that provides 'up to' 10 hours of wireless web or iTunes movie playback. It is glued in place and cannot be replaced by an end user. It has an 87W USB-C power adapter, too.
Also see: How do you replace the battery in the 'Touch Bar' MacBook Pro models? Is it possible? |
| Pre-Installed MacOS: | X 10.13.6 (17G2112) | Maximum MacOS: | Current |
Update Mid 2012 Macbook Pro Catalina
| Details: | This system fully supports the final version of macOS High Sierra (10.13). Running macOS High Sierra (10.13), this model does support HEVC hardware acceleration.
This model also is compatible with the final version of macOS Mojave (10.14) and final version of macOS Catalina (10.15), including support for Dolby Atmos. It is fully compatible with the current version of macOS Big Sur (macOS 11), as well. When paired with a compatible iPad, it supports the Sidecar feature, too.
Also see: Which Macs are compatible with macOS Big Sur (macOS 11)? What are the system requirements? What are the major new features? |
| Minimum Windows: | 10 (64-Bit)* | Maximum Windows: | 10 (64-Bit)* |
| Details: | *The pre-installed version of Apple's Boot Camp supports the 64-bit version of Windows 10. Earlier versions of Windows are not supported. |
| MacOS 9 Support: | None | Windows Support: | Boot/Virtualization |
| Details: | Also see: Are there any third-party programs to run Mac OS 9/Classic applications on Intel Macs?
Site sponsor OHS specializes in heavily upgraded Macs capable of running both Mac OS X and Mac OS 9 applications.
For more on running Windows on Intel Macs, please refer to the exhaustive Windows on Mac Q&A. |
| Dimensions: | 0.61 x 13.75 x 9.48 | Avg. Weight: | 4.02 lbs (1.83 kg) |
| Details: | In inches while closed - height by width by depth, (1.55 cm, 34.93 cm, 24.07 cm). |
| Original Price (US): | US$2799, US$3099* | Est. Current Retail: | US$1700-US$2000 |
| Details: | *This MacBook Pro was offered as a processor upgrade option for either MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.2 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018 or MacBook Pro 'Core i7' 2.6 15' Touch Bar/Mid-2018. If otherwise stock configured, the price of the processor upgrade brought the total price to US$2799 and US$3099, respectively. Other configurations also were available. The price was the same regardless of color.
Please note that on average the estimated current retail pricing of used systems is updated twice a year (please refer to the date on the bottom of the page for the date last updated).
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. |
Can I Update My Macbook Pro To Catalina
Click on a category for additional details. The most commonly needed info is 'open' by default, but all info is important. The icons correspond with the icons for each port on the computer.
| Video (Monitor): | 4 (Thunderbolt 3/USB-C) | Floppy (Ext.): | None |
| Details: | This model has four Thunderbolt 3 ports. These four ports support charging the notebook, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt (up to 40 Gbps), and USB 3.1 Generation 2 (up to 10 Gbps). An adapter is offered to connect the Thunderbolt 2 standard to Thunderbolt 3. |
| Details: | *This model has four Thunderbolt 3 ports (USB-C connector) that also support the USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard (up to 10 Gbps). |
| Details: | No internal modem or Ethernet, although an Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet adapter is available for optional purchase. 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 are standard. |
| Details: | Three internal microphones. Has a single 3.5 mm headphone jack. |
| Details: | Has a single 3.5 mm headphone jack. It does not support optical audio. |
| Details: | 100V-240V AC, 87W USB-C power adapter. This model does not support a 'MagSafe' connector. |
Global original prices for the MacBook Pro 15-Inch 'Core i9' 2.9 Touch/2018 in 34 different countries and territories follow; organized alphabetically by region.
For global original prices for Intel Macs in one particular country on a single page, please refer to EveryMac.com's Global Original Prices section.
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Original Prices - North & South America
| Mexico: | MXN $65,199, $72,699 | United States: | US$2799, US$3099* |
Original Prices - Europe
| Denmark: | DKK 24,939, 27,519 | Finland: | ¤3379, ¤3739 |
| Ireland: | ¤3379, ¤3739 | Italy: | ¤3379, ¤3739 |
| Luxembourg: | ¤3170,59, ¤3518,70 | Netherlands: | ¤3279, ¤3639 |
| Spain: | ¤3279, ¤3639 | Sweden: | SEK 32.395, 35.695 |
| Switzerland: | CHF 3'137, 3'466.90 | United Kingdom: | £2699, £2969 |
Original Prices - Asia
| China: | RMB 21,985, 24,244 | Hong Kong: | HK$21,988, HK$24,328 |
| Japan: | ¥302,800, ¥335,800 | Korea: | KRW 3,490,000, 3,857,500 |
| Malaysia: | RM 11,599, 12,898 | The Philippines: | PHP 173,990, 188,990 |
| Singapore: | S$3,988, S$4,408 | Taiwan: | NT$89,900, NT$99,680 |
Original Prices - Australia & New Zealand
| Australia: | A$4099, A$4579 | New Zealand: | NZ$4699, NZ$5209 |
If you have additional original prices for this model, please get in touch. Thank you.
Ten of the most popular Q&As about the MacBook Pro 15-Inch models follow.
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