MacBook Testing Guide

M3, M3 Pro, M3 Max, or M4 — matches listing?

8GB, 16GB, 24GB, 36GB, or 48GB as listed?

256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, etc.

M3 Pro: 14 or 18 cores? M3 Max: 30 or 40 cores?

Match with original receipt/box if buying used

Use our dead pixel test in fullscreen Safari

White text on black background—look for halos around text

Scroll in Safari—should be buttery smooth 120Hz

Toggle True Tone in Display settings—should adapt to lighting

In bright room, max brightness should be easily visible

Display black screen—look for scratches in light

Should be 85%+ for used MacBooks under 2 years old

About This Mac → More Info → System Report → Power. Under 300 is ideal

50% brightness, WiFi browsing—should match Apple's estimates

Look at bottom of laptop and trackpad—no bulging

Use our keyboard test—every key should register

Rapidly tap each key—no sticking or double-pressing

Set up fingerprint and test unlock multiple times

All keys should light evenly, auto-brightness works

Test force click, three-finger gestures, all corners

Heavy wear shows as shiny/smooth keycaps on used models

Compare scores to baseline for your chip model

Run extended benchmark—M3/M4 shouldn't thermal throttle

Use Disk Speed Test—should hit 5000+ MB/s read

No unexpected high CPU processes at idle

Export video, compile code, run apps you'll use daily

Connect device to each port—verify charging and data

Test magnetic connection and charging indicator

Connect to external display—verify resolution

Insert card—should mount and read quickly

Test with headphones—no static or crackling

Run speed test—should match router capabilities

Connect AirPods or other device—stable connection

Play music—MacBook Pro has excellent 6-speaker system

High volume should be clear, no rattling or buzzing

Record voice memo—should be clear for calls

Test head tracking with supported content

Look for dents, dings, or impact damage

Check for scratches, stripped screws, or tampering

Open/close lid—smooth movement, holds any angle

No cracks around camera notch or bezels

If signed into iCloud, have seller sign out before you

Should run latest macOS (Sonoma or newer)

Restart holding D—runs hardware diagnostics

Visit checkcoverage.apple.com with serial number