Apple’s 2019 Mac Pro replaced the compact cylindrical design with a large tower built around internal expansion and serviceability. That was a clear response to practical limits of the 2013 model, but Apple did not publicly say that the “trash can” design “sucks”—that phrase is commentary, not an admission.
Why was the Mac Pro called the “trash can”?
Apple introduced its compact, cylindrical Mac Pro in 2013. The enclosure’s shape reminded people of a wastepaper bin, and “Trash Can” became its informal nickname. The design was also praised for fitting powerful hardware into a small, quiet enclosure, but its appearance was only part of the criticism.
The more consequential complaint was that the machine left little room inside for expansion. Owners who needed additional capability often had to turn to external devices rather than install upgrade cards inside. At WWDC 2013, Apple executive Phil Schiller defended the company’s ambition with the line, “Can’t innovate anymore, my ass.” (TechRadar)
What changed in the 2019 Mac Pro?
On June 3, 2019, Apple revealed a redesigned Mac Pro tower. Instead of prioritizing a compact cylinder, the new machine restored the internal space and PCIe expansion expected of a workstation. Its outer case could be lifted off after unlocking, making access to the system easier. (Engadget)
#1 Best Overall
- BRAWN OF A NEW AGE — Mac Studio is a tremendously powerful pro desktop. The M5 Max chip enables remarkable on-device AI compute. Blast through creative projects and professional workflows with the advanced graphics architecture and faster memory and storage.
- M5 MAX CHIP — Tap into breakthrough performance with a next-generation CPU, a more powerful GPU with third-generation ray tracing, and a Neural Accelerator built into each GPU core. Mac Studio gets a boost with more power to generate real-time media and accelerate complex workflows.
- MEMORY AND STORAGE — Get up to 128GB unified memory and up to 614GB/s memory bandwidth for more speed when processing massive datasets, complex 3D scenes, and inference in AI workflows. And up to 2x faster storage* expedites tasks like file transfers and loading large projects.
- A POWERFUL PLATFORM FOR AI — Apple silicon, and every major component that powers it, is designed to run demanding AI workflows like running huge LLMs, directly on device. And Apple Intelligence* helps you write, express yourself, and get things done effortlessly, while Siri AI* is your profoundly capable assistant — all with groundbreaking privacy protections.
- A POWERFUL PLATFORM FOR AI — Apple silicon, and every major component that powers it, is designed to run demanding AI workflows like running huge LLMs, directly on device.
| Feature | 2019 Mac Pro specification reported at launch |
|---|---|
| Processor | Up to 28 CPU cores |
| Memory | Up to 1.5 TB of RAM |
| Expansion | Four double-wide PCIe slots, three single-wide slots and one half-width slot |
| Graphics | Support for up to two Radeon Pro Vega II GPUs |
| Video acceleration | With Apple’s Afterburner card, Apple said it could handle three simultaneous 8K RAW streams or twelve 4K streams |
These are launch-era specifications and claims reported by Engadget, not a claim that every configuration included the maximum components. The emphasis was on serving demanding professional workflows, particularly video production, with substantial memory capacity, multiple GPUs and dedicated media acceleration. (Engadget)
Was the 2019 Mac Pro actually upgradeable?
It was designed to be more internally expandable than the 2013 cylinder. The tower offered multiple PCIe slots, and its removable outer case provided access to the components inside. That design addressed the cylinder’s limited internal room and reliance on external expansion.
Rank #2
- Powerful 14th Gen Intel Performance: Experience responsive computing with the Intel Core i3-14100 processor featuring 4 cores, 8 threads, and turbo speeds up to 4.7GHz with 12MB cache. This modern architecture delivers smooth multitasking for business applications, video conferencing, content creation, and everyday productivity tasks. Whether you’re running multiple programs simultaneously or handling demanding workloads, this processor ensures reliable performance for professional environments.
- Ample Memory and Fast Storage: Equipped with 16GB DDR5 RAM for seamless multitasking and lightning-fast application loading, paired with a spacious 512GB PCIe SSD that provides rapid boot times, instant file access, and plenty of storage space for documents, media, and software. The combination of high-speed memory and solid-state storage eliminates bottlenecks, ensuring your workflow remains smooth and efficient throughout your workday without frustrating delays.
- Comprehensive Connectivity Options: Stay connected with extensive port selection including USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, multiple USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 ports (front and back), DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1 for dual monitor support, global headset jack, media card reader, and Gigabit Ethernet. Built-in MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth wireless card provide fast, reliable wireless connectivity. Perfect for modern offices requiring flexible connection options for peripherals and displays.
- Professional Graphics and Display Support: Intel UHD Graphics 730 delivers clear visuals for business applications, presentations, and multimedia. DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 support dual monitors, expanding your workspace for spreadsheets, data analysis, design, and video conferencing. Integrated graphics efficiently handle everyday visual tasks while maintaining smooth system performance.
- Business-Ready Design with Windows 11 Pro: Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro for enhanced security features, remote desktop capabilities, and professional-grade tools. Compact tower design (12.76" H x 6.06" W x 11.53" D, 9.17 lbs) fits comfortably in any workspace. Includes 180W Bronze power supply, Kensington lock slot and padlock loop for physical security. Perfect for small businesses, home offices, students, and professionals seeking reliable, secure computing solutions.
“Upgradeable” does not mean every component could be changed without limits, nor does the available launch reporting establish compatibility for every later card or upgrade. The specific evidence here is the chassis access and PCIe slot layout Apple announced in 2019.
How much did the 2019 Mac Pro cost?
Apple’s reported US starting price at launch was $5,999. That configuration included an eight-core Xeon processor, 32 GB of memory, a 256 GB SSD and a Radeon Pro 580X. It was a workstation-class base price, before a display or accessories. (Engadget)
Rank #3
- Next-Gen Intel Core Ultra 7 AI Processor - 20-Core Powerhouse with 13 TOPS NPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 265 processor (20-core: 8P+12E, 20-thread, up to 5.3GHz turbo, 30MB cache) with Intel AI Boost (13 TOPS NPU) delivers exceptional AI-accelerated performance for demanding business applications, data analysis, content creation, and multitasking. Windows 11 Pro with Copilot AI assistant enhances productivity through intelligent automation and smart workflows for modern professional computing.
- Triple 4K Display Support - Professional Multi-Monitor Productivity: Drive up to three 4K displays simultaneously via 3x DisplayPort 1.4a (HBR3) ports powered by integrated Intel Graphics—ideal for financial trading, data visualization, CAD design, video editing, and complex multitasking workflows. Expansive multi-screen workspace maximizes efficiency for professionals managing spreadsheets, dashboards, and applications side-by-side. Note: No HDMI port; DisplayPort connections only.
- Fast 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD & DVD-RW Drive for Complete Business Computing 16GB DDR5 RAM handles multitasking with business applications, video conferencing, and productivity software smoothly. 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD delivers lightning-fast boot times and instant application launches. Includes 8x DVD+/-RW optical drive for legacy media, data backup, and software installation.
- Extensive Connectivity with 2 USB-C Ports, Multiple USB 3.2 & Gigabit Ethernet: Comprehensive ports: Front (USB-C 20Gbps, USB 3.2 10Gbps, 2x USB 2.0, headset jack) | Rear (USB-C 10Gbps, 3x USB 3.2 5Gbps, 2x USB 2.0 with SmartPower On, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a, Gigabit Ethernet). Connect multiple peripherals, external drives, printers, and displays effortlessly. Note: No built-in WiFi; use Gigabit Ethernet for reliable wired network connectivity or add WiFi adapter.
- Windows 11 Pro - Enterprise Security & AI-Powered Productivity: Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro 64-bit with BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, domain join, Hyper-V virtualization, and Copilot AI assistant for enhanced productivity. 260W Bronze PSU provides efficient power. Perfect for corporate offices, small businesses, developers, financial professionals, designers, and power users demanding performance.
Apple introduced a 32-inch 6K Retina display alongside the tower. The display’s resolution was 6,016 × 3,384; it was a separate product, not part of the Mac Pro’s $5,999 starting configuration. (Engadget)
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is Apple still making the Mac Pro?
No. In March 2026, Cult of Mac reported that Apple had quietly discontinued the Mac Pro. The report says the M2 Ultra tower had started at $7,000 and could exceed $12,000 with upgrades. Those figures describe that model’s pricing as reported in March 2026; they are not the 2019 launch price. (Cult of Mac)
Quick Recap
Best Value
- CPU & AI: Intel Core Ultra 7 265 (20 cores, up to 5.3GHz, 30MB cache) with 13 TOPS NPU for AI acceleration. Windows 11 Pro with Copilot included.
- Displays: Drives three 4K monitors via 3x DisplayPort 1.4a. Integrated Intel Graphics.
- Memory & Storage: 32GB DDR5 RAM. 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD. DVD+/-RW optical drive.
- Ports: Front: USB-C 20Gbps, USB 3.2 10Gbps, 2x USB 2.0, headset jack. Rear: USB-C 10Gbps, 3x USB 3.2 5Gbps, 2x USB 2.0 (SmartPower On), 3x DisplayPort 1.4a, Gigabit Ethernet.
- OS & Security: Windows 11 Pro 64-bit pre-installed. Includes BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop, domain join, Hyper-V virtualization, and Copilot AI assistant. No built-in WiFi — wired Ethernet only. 260W Bronze PSU.
Rank #4
- Core Efficiency & Multitasking: Driven by a 14th Gen Intel Core i3-14100 processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a responsive 512GB PCIe SSD. Pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro, this desktop delivers agile application responsiveness, swift boot times, and effortless handling of daily office workflows.
- Space-Saving & Compact Design: Integrated with Intel UHD Graphics 730 for clear visuals and reliable daily operation. Featuring a space-saving chassis measuring 12.76" H x 6.06" W x 11.53" D and weighing 9.17 lbs, it fits easily into tight desk setups and functions immediately out of the box with zero assembly needed.
- Extensive I/O & Modern Wireless: Displays across multiple monitors using DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 outputs, complemented by 8 USB ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and an audio jack. MediaTek Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth ensure stable wireless networking and fast peripheral connectivity.
- Asset Protection & Physical Setup: Equipped with a built-in Kensington lock slot and padlock loop to physically secure the desktop in office or shared environments. Features an integrated media card reader for quick file transfers, built with dimensions of 12.76" H x 6.06" W x 11.53" D and weighing 9.17 lbs for a tidy workspace.
- Enterprise-Grade Tools & Remote Work: Built on Windows 11 Pro to provide essential business security, BitLocker data protection, and seamless Remote Desktop accessibility. Tailored for home-office professionals and small business environments needing a steady, secure workstation.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
