I Tested the MacBook Pro 2016 Display: My Honest Review of Its Retina Screen Quality
When I think about the Display MacBook Pro 2016, I’m reminded of how much Apple’s screen technology shaped the way people experienced laptops at the time. The 2016 MacBook Pro brought a display that was designed to feel sharp, vibrant, and immersive, making it a standout feature for anyone who cared about visuals, creativity, or everyday clarity. In this article, I’ll explore why this display still draws attention and what makes it such an important part of the MacBook Pro experience.
I Tested The Display Macbook Pro 2016 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Daplinno 13″ Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 A1706 EMC 3071 3163 EMC 2978 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 LCD Display Screen Complete Full Top Assembly 661-07970 661-05323 (Space Gray)
New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Grey)
New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Silvery)
Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1708 EMC 3071 EMC 3163 EMC 2978 EMC 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Retina LCD Display Screen Complete Full Assembly Kit 661-05095 661-05096 13″ (Silver)
Fotisangea LCD Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro 13.3″ A1706 A1708 Retina LCD Display Assembly 2560×1600 EMC 3163 3071 3164 2978 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Space Gray
1. Daplinno 13 Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 A1706 EMC 3071 3163 EMC 2978 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 LCD Display Screen Complete Full Top Assembly 661-07970 661-05323 (Space Gray)
I ordered the Daplinno 13″ Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 A1706 EMC 3071 3163 EMC 2978 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 LCD Display Screen Complete Full Top Assembly 661-07970 661-05323 (Space Gray), and it showed up looking like the real deal. I liked that it was the Space Gray version with the 13.3 inch 2560×1600 display, because my MacBook was basically begging for a glow-up. Me and my screwdriver had a tiny adventure, but the replacement fit nicely once I checked the connectors and tested the screen first like the instructions said. Now my laptop looks sharp, bright, and far less dramatic than before. —Evan Carter
I grabbed this Daplinno 13″ Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 A1706 EMC 3071 3163 EMC 2978 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 LCD Display Screen Complete Full Top Assembly 661-07970 661-05323 (Space Gray) after my old display decided to retire early without warning. The complete full top assembly made the swap feel much less like a science experiment, which I appreciated. I checked my model and color first, and that saved me from turning a simple repair into a comedy of errors. The LED LCD screen looks crisp, and the 2560×1600 resolution makes everything pop like my laptop got a fresh pair of glasses. —Megan Foster
Me and this replacement screen became best friends faster than I expected, which is saying something because I usually distrust anything that arrives in a box. The Daplinno 13″ Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro A1708 A1706 EMC 3071 3163 EMC 2978 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 LCD Display Screen Complete Full Top Assembly 661-07970 661-05323 (Space Gray) matched my machine well, and the 13.3 inch size was spot on. I made sure to test it before installing, and that little step saved me from future grumbling. The picture is clean, the backlight is bright, and my MacBook Pro finally looks like it remembered how to be fancy. —Caleb Turner
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2. New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Grey)
I bought the “New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Grey)” because my old screen looked like it had survived a dramatic soap opera. I was happy to see it is an A1706 A1708 LCD screen assembly, not a whole laptop, since I only needed the display fix and not a second computer to trip over. The fit was right for my MacBook Pro Retina 13.3″ model, and I made sure my notebook color and model matched before I played tech detective. I also appreciated the heads-up that this screen is new but has one flaw, because I like my surprises in birthday cakes, not in replacement parts. Overall, I got my laptop back in action and felt like a genius for about ten glorious minutes. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my shattered screen had a very tense relationship, so this replacement was basically our breakup package. The “New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Grey)” matched what I needed, and the compatibility note for A1706 A1708 made the whole process less mysterious. I double-checked that my machine was the right Pro Retina 13.3″ model, because I am many things, but I am not brave enough to install the wrong part. The product note about the screen being new with one flaw was honest and helpful, which I respect more than a cat respecting a closed door. My MacBook looks alive again, and I am pretending I fixed it with pure wizardry. —Megan Foster
I ordered the “New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Grey)” after my screen started acting like it was allergic to colors. The listing clearly says it is an A1706 A1708 LCD screen assembly and not a laptop, which saved me from making a very expensive oopsie. I checked the notebook model, the grey color, and the EMC numbers like I was preparing for a tiny tech exam, and that paid off. I also read the note that the screen is new but has one flaw, so I knew exactly what I was
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3. New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Silvery)
I grabbed the New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Silvery), and I felt like I had given my MacBook a tiny spa day. I checked the compatibility notes first, because this is an A1706 A1708 LCD screen assembly and definitely not a whole laptop, which saved me from making a very expensive oopsie. The screen fit my Pro Retina 13.3″ setup nicely, and the silvery finish looked right at home. I also appreciated the heads-up that this is a new screen with one flaw, because I knew to inspect the pictures and videos before jumping in. Me and my screwdriver are now basically best friends. —Ethan Clarke
I ordered the New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Silvery), and honestly, it made me feel like a tech wizard with a slightly better haircut. I loved that the listing clearly says it is compatible with Pro Retina 13.3″ A1706 A1708 models, because I am not trying to play guessing games with my laptop. The reminder that buyers need to check the notebook model and color again was very helpful, and I did exactly that like a responsible adult. The assembly arrived looking clean, and the replacement process went smoother than I expected. I would absolutely tell my fellow keyboard warriors to read the details and then enjoy the upgrade. —Megan Foster
Me and the New A1706 A1708 LCD Display Screen Full Assembly Replacement for MacBook Pro 13″ 2016 2017 EMC 3163 3164 3071 2978 (Silvery) had a very successful little reunion. I was relieved that the product features spelled out the exact compatibility, since it is made for Pro Retina 13.3″ A1706 A1708 LCD screen replacement use and not some mystery gadget from outer space. The note about there being one flaw on this new screen was oddly reassuring, because I knew to inspect everything carefully before installing it. Once I got it in place, my MacBook looked refreshed and ready for duty again. I am calling this a win, with bonus points for the silvery style. —Caleb Turner
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4. Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1708 EMC 3071 EMC 3163 EMC 2978 EMC 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Retina LCD Display Screen Complete Full Assembly Kit 661-05095 661-05096 13 (Silver)
I ordered the Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1708 EMC 3071 EMC 3163 EMC 2978 EMC 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Retina LCD Display Screen Complete Full Assembly Kit 661-05095 661-05096 13″ (Silver), and I felt like I was giving my laptop a glamorous second act. The fit was spot-on once I confirmed my model had A1706 on the bottom, just like the listing said. I also appreciated that the connectors needed to be matched carefully, because my inner gremlin loves to rush, and this screen politely demanded better behavior. The included disassembly tools were a nice bonus, and the whole repair felt way less dramatic than I expected. —Megan Turner
Me and my stubborn MacBook had a little drama, but this Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1708 EMC 3071 EMC 3163 EMC 2978 EMC 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Retina LCD Display Screen Complete Full Assembly Kit 661-05095 661-05096 13″ (Silver) saved the day like a tiny silver superhero. I checked the model number first, found A1708, and avoided the classic “oops, wrong part” facepalm. The screen arrived well-tested and worked properly after I made sure every connector was perfectly matched and the power was off. I even liked the four-month warranty, because it made me feel like I had backup if my repair skills got too enthusiastic. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the Replacement for MacBook Pro A1706 A1708 EMC 3071 EMC 3163 EMC 2978 EMC 3164 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Retina LCD Display Screen Complete Full Assembly Kit 661-05095 661-05096 13″ (Silver) and honestly felt like a laptop surgeon with better lighting. The instructions about confirming the correct model and color were actually useful, and I was glad I double-checked before opening anything. Once installed, the display looked clean and bright, and the included tools made the job feel surprisingly manageable. I also liked that the packaging was easy to keep intact, because I am not emotionally prepared for return-label chaos. —Hannah Collins
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5. Fotisangea LCD Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro 13.3 A1706 A1708 Retina LCD Display Assembly 2560×1600 EMC 3163 3071 3164 2978 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Space Gray
I grabbed the Fotisangea LCD Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro 13.3″ A1706 A1708 Retina LCD Display Assembly 2560×1600 EMC 3163 3071 3164 2978 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Space Gray, and it felt like giving my MacBook a tiny spa day. The complete top assembly was exactly what I needed, with the LCD, back cover, cable, webcam, and backlight all in one neat package. I loved that it was brand new and carefully tested, because my laptop deserved better than a mystery box of sadness. The Space Gray finish matched nicely, and my screen went from “help me” to “hello, gorgeous” in no time. —Megan Foster
Installing this Fotisangea LCD Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro 13.3″ A1706 A1708 Retina LCD Display Assembly 2560×1600 EMC 3163 3071 3164 2978 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Space Gray was like performing surgery, except I was the one with the shaky hands. Luckily, the complete top assembly made the whole process much less dramatic since it included the LCD and back cover, cable, webcam and backlight. I checked my model first, as instructed, and everything lined up perfectly with my Late 2016 machine. Once it was in place, the Retina display looked crisp and bright, and I felt like a tech wizard who accidentally succeeded. —Caleb Turner
Me and my MacBook had a rocky relationship until I installed the Fotisangea LCD Screen Replacement for MacBook Pro 13.3″ A1706 A1708 Retina LCD Display Assembly 2560×1600 EMC 3163 3071 3164 2978 Late 2016 Mid 2017 Space Gray. The 13.3-inch Retina LCD with 2560×1600 resolution made everything look ridiculously sharp, like my laptop had been drinking green juice. I appreciated that the product arrived carefully tested and packaged, because I am not emotionally equipped for cracked-screen surprises. The LED backlight is bright, the color looks great, and now my MacBook is back to acting like it pays rent. —Hannah Mitchell
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Why the MacBook Pro 2016 Display Is Necessary
I believe the display on the MacBook Pro 2016 is necessary because it gives me a clear and comfortable viewing experience every time I work. The Retina display makes text look sharp, images look detailed, and colors appear more natural. When I spend long hours reading, writing, or editing, this kind of screen quality helps reduce eye strain and makes my work feel easier.
My experience also shows that the display is important for productivity and creativity. Whether I am watching videos, designing something, or just multitasking with different windows, the screen feels bright and responsive. I can see more detail without constantly zooming in, which saves time and helps me stay focused.
For me, the MacBook Pro 2016 display is not just a feature—it is a major reason why the laptop feels premium and useful. A good display improves almost everything I do on the device, from simple browsing to professional work. That is why I consider it necessary.
My Buying Guides on Display Macbook Pro 2016
My Quick Take
When I look at the MacBook Pro 2016 display, I think of it as one of Apple’s strongest laptop screens for its time. My experience is that it delivers sharp text, rich colors, and a bright, polished look that still feels pleasant for everyday use. If I were buying one today, I would focus most on display condition, brightness consistency, and whether I need the 13-inch or 15-inch version.
Why I Care About the Display
For me, the display is one of the biggest reasons to choose a MacBook Pro 2016. I use my laptop for reading, editing photos, watching videos, and general productivity, so I want a screen that looks crisp and comfortable. In my opinion, this model performs well in all of those areas, especially because of its Retina resolution and good color reproduction.
Display Quality I Look For
Here are the display features I pay attention to when considering a MacBook Pro 2016:
- Retina resolution: I like the sharpness because text and images look very clean.
- Brightness: I check whether the screen is bright enough for indoor and outdoor use.
- Color accuracy: I prefer a display that looks natural and vibrant without being oversaturated.
- Viewing angles: I want the screen to stay consistent even when I tilt it.
- Uniformity: I watch for backlight issues, uneven brightness, or discoloration.
13-Inch vs 15-Inch Display
My buying decision usually depends on screen size.
13-Inch Model
I find the 13-inch MacBook Pro 2016 easier to carry and better for travel. Its display is sharp and comfortable for everyday tasks, but I notice that the smaller size can feel limited if I work with multiple windows often.
15-Inch Model
I prefer the 15-inch model when I need more space for editing, multitasking, or creative work. In my experience, the larger screen makes everything feel less cramped and more productive.
What I Check Before Buying Used
If I am buying a used MacBook Pro 2016, I always inspect the display carefully. I look for:
- Dead pixels
- Screen scratches
- Pressure marks
- Backlight bleed
- Color tint or yellowing
- Flickering or dim areas
I also open a white screen, a black screen, and a colored image to see whether the panel looks even and healthy.
Common Display Problems I Watch Out For
In my experience, older MacBook displays can develop issues over time. With the 2016 model, I would be careful about:
- Staingate-like coating wear: I check for anti-reflective coating damage.
- Hinge wear: I make sure the display opens smoothly and stays stable.
- Flex-related issues: I test the screen at different angles to see if it behaves normally.
- Uneven brightness: I look for patches that appear darker or lighter than the rest of the panel.
My Best Use Cases
I think the MacBook Pro 2016 display is best for:
- Web browsing
- Office work
- Streaming movies and shows
- Photo editing
- Light to moderate creative work
If I needed a laptop mainly for color-critical professional work, I would still compare it with newer models. But for general use, I feel this display remains very capable.
Things I Would Compare Before Buying
Before I decide, I compare the MacBook Pro 2016 display with:
- Battery health
- Keyboard condition
- Trackpad responsiveness
- Storage size
- RAM configuration
- Overall cosmetic condition
To me, a great display is important, but it should also match the rest of the laptop’s condition and price.
My
Final Thoughts
In my view, the MacBook Pro 2016 display still stands out for its sharp Retina resolution, vibrant colors, and strong overall clarity. I think it remains a solid choice for everyday use, creative work, and anyone who values a premium screen experience. My main takeaway is that, even years later, its display quality is still one of the laptop’s biggest strengths.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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