I compared these three renewed Mac Pro desktops by the jobs their older Intel hardware can still handle, not by treating them as substitutes for current Macs. The 12-core model is my pick for parallel workloads, while the 64GB quad-core configuration is the strongest choice for memory-heavy multitasking. The 16GB quad-core version is the simpler entry point, but its modest memory and Yosemite-era software make it the least compelling for buyers who want a ready-to-use modern workstation.
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All three use the compact 2013 cylindrical Mac Pro design and dual FirePro D300 graphics. That brings a useful set of Thunderbolt 2 connections, but it also means limited internal upgrades, aging graphics, and substantial software-compatibility questions. I rank them by how well each configuration balances its available resources with those constraints. Before choosing, check the seller’s warranty, return terms, included accessories, and the exact macOS version the unit can run.
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Key Takeaways
- Best balance of memory and CPU: The 3.7GHz quad-core with 64GB RAM and a 512GB SSD is the strongest fit here for multitasking that benefits more from memory capacity than extra processor cores.
- Best for parallel work: The 12-core 2.7GHz model has the most cores, but its 256GB SSD leaves less room for active projects and applications.
- Entry configuration has a catch: The 16GB quad-core includes a 512GB SSD, yet the least memory makes it a weaker choice for demanding creative workflows.
- Shared limitation: All three rely on dual FirePro D300 graphics and a design with limited internal expansion, so none is a natural choice for current GPU-heavy work.
- Check compatibility before buying: Yosemite and Sierra are listed as preinstalled systems; verify software support, update options, refurbisher coverage, and return conditions for the specific unit.
| Apple Mac Pro (Late 2013) Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon, 64GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best Overall for Memory-Heavy Work | Processor: 3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5-1620v2, 4 cores | Memory: 64GB DDR3 ECC | Storage: 512GB SSD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5-3.7GHz Quad-Core, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best for Legacy Setups on a Lean Configuration | Processor: 3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 4 cores | Memory: 16GB DDR3 | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5 2.7GHz 12-Core, 32GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed) |  | Best for CPU-Parallel Workloads | Processor: 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 12 cores | Memory: 32GB DDR3 | Storage: 256GB PCIe SSD | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| renewed mac pro desktop | Processor | Memory | Storage | Graphics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Mac Pro | 3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5-1620v2, 4 cores | 64GB DDR3 ECC | 512GB SSD | Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | 3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 4 cores | 16GB DDR3 | 512GB PCIe SSD | Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | 2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 12 cores | 32GB DDR3 | 256GB PCIe SSD | Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Apple Mac Pro (Late 2013) Quad Core 3.7GHz Xeon, 64GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed)
I rank this configuration first because its 64GB of ECC memory gives the 3.7GHz quad-core a more useful professional workstation setup than the other quad-core option. Compared with the 16GB model, it is better equipped for keeping larger projects and several applications open at once. The 512GB SSD matches that model’s listed capacity, while the 12-core alternative trades some storage space for more CPU cores.
That balance points to a particular kind of buyer: someone whose existing applications run on this generation and whose work is more constrained by memory capacity than by graphics performance. The 3.7GHz Xeon E5-1620v2 provides four cores, not the twelve found in the third pick, so core-heavy rendering or parallel processing may favor that machine. Meanwhile, the shared dual FirePro D300 graphics are a reminder that adding RAM does not make this a current GPU workstation.
Its ports and support for multiple displays can be useful in an established desk setup, especially when paired with compatible Thunderbolt 2 equipment. Yet the cylindrical enclosure offers little internal expansion, and the listing names macOS Sierra, an old operating system. I would verify whether the applications and peripherals you depend on work with the specific system version available, then confirm the seller’s warranty and return terms. The extra memory makes this the most balanced of these three, but not a low-risk choice for buyers who need modern support.
Pros:- 64GB DDR3 ECC RAM is the largest memory configuration in this comparison.
- 3.7GHz quad-core Xeon suits compatible tasks that benefit from its higher listed clock speed.
- 512GB SSD provides twice the listed capacity of the 12-core model.
- Six Thunderbolt 2 ports, HDMI, USB 3.0, and dual Gigabit Ethernet support a range of older desk setups.
Cons:- Four CPU cores provide less parallel processing capacity than the 12-core option.
- The dual FirePro D300 graphics and compact enclosure limit its appeal for newer GPU-focused work and upgrades.
- macOS Sierra is dated, and refurbisher warranty coverage may vary.
Best for: Buyers with compatible legacy software who need substantial memory for multitasking and prefer a 512GB SSD to the 12-core model’s 256GB drive.
Not ideal for: People focused on GPU-heavy modern work, easy internal upgrades, or applications that require a newer supported operating system.
- Processor:3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5-1620v2, 4 cores
- Memory:64GB DDR3 ECC
- Storage:512GB SSD
- Graphics:Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each
- Ports:6 Thunderbolt 2, HDMI 1.4, 4 USB 3.0, 2 Gigabit Ethernet
- Listed operating system:macOS Sierra
- Dimensions and weight:12 × 12 × 12 inches; 11 pounds
Our verdict“I would choose this 64GB configuration for a compatible legacy workflow that needs memory and storage balance more than maximum core count.”
Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5-3.7GHz Quad-Core, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD (Renewed)
This is the most restrained configuration in the group: the same listed 3.7GHz quad-core class and 512GB SSD as my overall pick, but only 16GB of RAM. That can suit a narrowly defined, compatible workload, but it creates the clearest compromise among these options. The 64GB model offers four times the memory while retaining a quad-core processor and the same listed SSD capacity, making it the more flexible choice for multitasking.
The 16GB version still has the cylindrical Mac Pro’s compact desk footprint and the familiar legacy connectivity, including Thunderbolt 2 and USB 3.0. Its listed Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0 may help when a wired setup is not practical. But those conveniences do not change the age of its platform, and OS X Yosemite is an old preinstalled system. Buyers should not assume a renewed unit includes a current macOS installation or supports every application they want to run.
Compared with the 12-core model, this one has a higher listed processor clock speed but fewer cores, less RAM, and a larger SSD. That distinction matters more than a simple “faster” label: the right CPU depends on whether the software favors clock speed or parallel work. I place it third because its lower memory makes it the least adaptable configuration for professional multitasking, while its shared graphics and upgrade limits remain. It is best treated as a purposeful legacy machine, not a general-purpose modern workstation.
Pros:- 3.7GHz quad-core Xeon is suited to compatible work that favors a higher listed clock speed over many cores.
- 512GB PCIe-based SSD has more listed capacity than the 12-core option.
- Compact 9.9-inch-high cylinder fits a small desk footprint.
- Thunderbolt 2, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 4.0 cover a range of legacy connections.
Cons:- 16GB RAM is the lowest capacity in this roundup and may constrain multitasking.
- OS X Yosemite is dated and may not suit current applications or security expectations.
- Renewed-unit warranty terms and condition need confirmation with the seller.
Best for: A buyer with a specific, compatible older application and a light workload who wants the 512GB SSD and compact cylinder design.
Not ideal for: Professionals who keep large projects or many applications open, need extensive memory, or expect current software support out of the box.
- Processor:3.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 4 cores
- Memory:16GB DDR3
- Storage:512GB PCIe SSD
- Graphics:Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each
- Connectivity:Thunderbolt 2, USB 3.0, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0
- Listed operating system:OS X Yosemite
- Dimensions:9.9 inches tall; 6.6 inches diameter
Our verdict“I would consider this model only for a defined older workflow that can live within 16GB of RAM and the listed Yosemite-era setup.”
Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer – Intel Xeon E5 2.7GHz 12-Core, 32GB RAM, 256GB SSD (Renewed)
The defining feature here is the 12-core Xeon E5. Among these three listings, this is the configuration I would examine first for compatible work that can use many CPU cores, such as certain rendering, encoding, or batch-processing tasks. It has twice the listed memory of the 16GB quad-core model, but half the storage of either 512GB configuration. That makes the 256GB SSD a practical limitation if project files, source media, and applications all need to live on the internal drive.
Its 2.7GHz processor clock is lower than the 3.7GHz quad-core options, so core count alone does not settle every performance question. Software that relies on fewer, faster cores may suit the 64GB quad-core better, while highly parallel tasks may benefit from the extra cores here. The 32GB of DDR3 RAM sits between the other two configurations, also making this a middle ground for memory capacity rather than the clear leader.
Like its competitors, it uses dual FirePro D300 graphics and the compact 2013 cylinder design, with six Thunderbolt 2 ports, USB 3.0, and HDMI listed. It is not a natural upgrade platform, and its listed Mac OS X Yosemite is dated. I rank it second because its extra CPU cores provide a distinct reason to choose it, but its smaller SSD and lower memory than the first-place option narrow its appeal. Check that your workload scales across many cores and that you have a plan for external storage before buying.
Pros:- 12-core Xeon provides the highest core count in this comparison for compatible parallel workloads.
- 32GB DDR3 memory exceeds the 16GB configuration.
- Six Thunderbolt 2 ports, four USB 3.0 ports, and HDMI support multiple peripherals.
- Compact cylinder enclosure takes up less desk space than a traditional tower.
Cons:- 256GB SSD is the smallest listed drive in the group.
- 2.7GHz listed clock speed is lower than the 3.7GHz quad-core models and may not suit every application.
- Yosemite-era software, D300 graphics, and limited internal upgrades constrain modern use.
Best for: Buyers running compatible, CPU-parallel tasks who value twelve Xeon cores and can work with a 256GB internal SSD.
Not ideal for: People whose software favors higher clock speeds, who need ample internal storage, or who require newer graphics and a straightforward upgrade path.
- Processor:2.7GHz Intel Xeon E5, 12 cores
- Memory:32GB DDR3
- Storage:256GB PCIe SSD
- Graphics:Dual AMD FirePro D300, 2GB GDDR5 each
- Ports:6 Thunderbolt 2, 4 USB 3.0, HDMI
- Listed operating system:Mac OS X Yosemite
- Wireless:Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0
- Dimensions:9.9 inches tall; 6.6 inches diameter
Our verdict“I would pick this 12-core model over the quad-core options only when the intended software can use its extra cores and external storage is acceptable.”
How We Picked
I ranked these machines for buyers specifically seeking a renewed Mac Pro desktop, rather than comparing them with new computers. The supplied configurations establish what separates them: processor core count, RAM, SSD capacity, graphics, ports, and the listed operating system. I gave priority to the configuration that offers the most useful balance for sustained professional multitasking, then to the one with the most CPU cores, and finally to the lower-memory quad-core model.
I also treated age and refurbishing as real parts of the decision. These are older Intel-based systems with dual FirePro D300 graphics, Thunderbolt 2, and limited internal upgrade paths. A product listing’s phrase “certified refurbished” does not by itself establish the warranty, refurbishment standard, battery condition of accessories, or return period. Those terms can differ by seller, so I do not assume that any one unit arrives with a particular level of coverage or software support.
My rankings are not claims that these machines suit every modern professional application. They make most sense when a buyer has a clear reason to use this specific Mac Pro generation, such as a compatible legacy workflow, existing Thunderbolt 2 equipment, or a task that benefits from its Xeon configuration. Anyone who needs current operating-system support, newer graphics capabilities, quiet certainty about software compatibility, or easy upgrades should compare newer hardware before purchasing.
| renewed mac pro desktop | Listed operating system |
|---|---|
| Apple Mac Pro | macOS Sierra |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | OS X Yosemite |
| Apple Mac Pro Desktop Computer | Mac OS X Yosemite |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Renewed Mac Pro Desktops
I would start with the work the Mac Pro must do, then check whether its age and renewal details fit your expectations. These three options share a platform, so configuration differences matter, but they do not remove the common limits.Match core count to the software
The 12-core model is the clear choice on core count, but extra cores help only when an application can use them. Some rendering, encoding, and batch tasks may scale across more cores; other software may favor a higher clock speed or may be limited by graphics performance. The two 3.7GHz quad-core configurations offer a higher listed clock speed, while the 12-core version runs at 2.7GHz. I would check the application’s CPU requirements and real-world compatibility notes before deciding that twelve cores automatically means faster work.
Treat memory and storage as separate needs
The 64GB configuration is the clear memory leader, and it suits buyers who need room for larger projects or several applications at once. The 16GB version is more constrained; the 32GB 12-core model falls between them. Storage changes the decision too: both quad-core listings have 512GB SSDs, while the 12-core model has 256GB. External storage can address capacity, but it adds cost, desk clutter, and a connection to manage. I would estimate working-file needs before choosing a processor-heavy configuration with less internal space.
Check operating-system and application support
The listings name macOS Sierra for the 64GB model and Yosemite for the other two. Those are old operating systems, and a renewed computer does not automatically come with a current supported version or compatibility with today’s software. Check the exact model identifier, supported operating-system options, and requirements for each essential application and peripheral. Security expectations matter as well: a machine that must connect to sensitive or current online services deserves more scrutiny than an isolated workstation running a known legacy task.
Plan around the cylinder’s upgrade limits
All three use the compact cylindrical Mac Pro design. Its small footprint and multiple Thunderbolt 2 ports can suit an established workstation, but internal expansion is limited compared with a traditional tower. The dual FirePro D300 graphics are shared across these listings, so buying more RAM or CPU cores does not change their graphics generation. If your plan depends on replacing a graphics card, adding several internal drives, or upgrading the machine over time, I would look beyond this group rather than assume the enclosure can adapt.
Inspect the renewed-unit terms
“Renewed” describes the sales condition, not a guarantee of identical testing, included accessories, warranty length, or cosmetic state across sellers. Before ordering, I would read the specific listing for the seller’s return window, warranty provider, coverage exclusions, and what happens if the computer arrives with a fault. Confirm the included power cable and any needed adapters, as well as whether the stated operating system and memory match the delivered machine. These checks matter especially here because all three computers are older systems whose support and condition can shape their usefulness as much as the listed specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which renewed Mac Pro in this comparison is best for multitasking?
I would start with the 64GB quad-core configuration for multitasking because it has the most memory while retaining a 512GB SSD. It is a better fit than the 16GB model for keeping larger workloads open, though the 12-core option may be preferable when the application can use many CPU cores. The best match depends on your software and whether memory or processor parallelism is the actual bottleneck.
Is the 12-core model always faster than the quad-core versions?
No. Its twelve cores can help compatible applications that spread work across many threads, but its listed clock speed is 2.7GHz rather than 3.7GHz. Software that uses fewer cores may favor the quad-core configurations, and overall performance also depends on graphics, memory, storage, and application support. I would check the needs of your specific workload rather than choose by core count alone.
Can I use these renewed Mac Pros for current creative software?
Compatibility is not established by the product descriptions alone. The listings name Yosemite or Sierra, both old operating systems, and all three use dual FirePro D300 graphics. Check the exact Mac Pro model’s operating-system support and the current requirements for every application, plugin, and peripheral you need. If your work requires recent graphics features or a currently supported software environment, a newer Mac may be a safer fit.
What is the main difference between the two 3.7GHz quad-core models?
The key difference is memory: the Late 2013 configuration has 64GB, while the other listing has 16GB. Both list a 512GB SSD and dual FirePro D300 graphics, but their stated operating systems differ, with Sierra on the 64GB model and Yosemite on the 16GB model. I would favor the 64GB version for heavier multitasking and treat the 16GB one as a more limited option for a specific compatible workload.
What should I verify before ordering a renewed Mac Pro?
I would confirm the exact processor, memory, SSD, graphics, and installed operating system on the seller’s current listing, then check the warranty provider, coverage, return period, and condition policy. Ask whether required cables or adapters are included and verify that your displays and Thunderbolt 2 peripherals can connect. Since refurbished terms can vary, I would not assume that the phrase “renewed” promises a particular warranty or cosmetic condition.
Conclusion
For a buyer who needs memory for compatible professional multitasking, I would choose the 64GB quad-core model, provided its older operating system and limited upgrade path fit the job. If the workload can use many CPU cores and 256GB of internal storage is enough, the 12-core model is the more specialized pick. I would reserve the 16GB quad-core version for a defined, lighter legacy workflow rather than broad workstation use.
My recommendation comes with a firm boundary: none of these listings is a clear choice for buyers seeking current graphics, easy hardware expansion, or assured modern software support. Check the exact compatibility and renewed-unit terms before ordering. If those checks do not support your workflow, a newer Mac is likely a more suitable starting point than any of these renewed 2013-era desktops.
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