I know there are other posts on this subject but I wanted to do a poll. I got my MacBook Pro 14" last week. I have really been enjoying the computer. It's so fast and the screen is amazing. However, I have begun to notice that the bottom case is more flexible than my old model. When I pick it up I can feel the bottom case metal flex slightly, and I can hear a slight popping or clicking sound. I end up returning everything I buy from Apple a few times due to issues, so I may be forced down that same path yet again. However, before I do a return I wanted to know whether this is normal or not. It may just be how these computers are designed. So, if you would please take my poll below honestly. Please test your computer before responding, because not everyone notices these things.
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MacBook Pro 2021 bottom case too flexible
- Thread starter pendragon1984
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Yup, I hear that clicking noise on the bottom sometimes. I wonder what's shifting to make that noise. The bottom case metal sheet is extremely thin and flexible, I remember seeing it demonstrated in one of the early teardowns.
Yes, I think it's the aluminum flexing. Is it most noticeable under the palm rests?
Have noticed this even on some older Macs. Right now having MBP 2017, and it gives a specific crunch when heated or when taken from one side
But be cautious, Mac isn't a ramming machine, especially the newest ones (can compare 2020, 2017, 2010 MBP models – the last is the toughest one if we're talking about the case)
Obviously, it wouldn't be an iPhone 6 story (hope so)
But be cautious, Mac isn't a ramming machine, especially the newest ones (can compare 2020, 2017, 2010 MBP models – the last is the toughest one if we're talking about the case)
Obviously, it wouldn't be an iPhone 6 story (hope so)
Mine is a tiny bit flexible, some of the flex is the metal, some is my thumb compressing; however, mine doesn't make a noise. It's nothing Im worried about. Just checked, our 2014 13" MBP flexes equally in the center.
Interesting that it compresses but doesn't make a noise for you. Even if you push on the bottom eh?
Not really but considering how the bottom is held down its not surprising if you would hear something. Wouldn't bother me if I did hear something as I am pressing really hard on the bottom.
I've tightened all my screws and it may be a little better but not perfect.
Does apple normally use lock tight on the screws? I noticed mine didn't seem to have any.
I wonder what the difference is between those that creak/pop and those that are silent.
Does apple normally use lock tight on the screws? I noticed mine didn't seem to have any.
I wonder what the difference is between those that creak/pop and those that are silent.
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Okay, I went over all the screws again and made sure they were all very tight. That has helped. It's not perfect but it's not nearly as loud. I worry though that the screws will loosen over time.
I have an issue where my M1 Macbook Pro makes a creaking sound when I hold it from one corner. Don’t know if this is related with your issue though
Given the poll results, I'm going to walk to the Apple store to see if the ones there creak too. If they don't I'll call up and request a replacement. I hate that I always have to do this. It's usually due to screen quality issues.
My bet is that they all creak and those who claim that they don't just have poor hearing or something. Or if they don't all creak my guess is I won't be able to find one that doesn't anyway.
My bet is that they all creak and those who claim that they don't just have poor hearing or something. Or if they don't all creak my guess is I won't be able to find one that doesn't anyway.
Its possible mine creaks when I am trying to force the issue by making it flex, but since it doesn't under all of my normal uses I really don't care if it does.
Yes, I worry about that too. I think these new Mini-LED screens though are much better.
Somebody should manufacture a bottom plate that is much stronger than the stock Apple plate. with the appropriate matching colors.
They could make alot of money.
They could make alot of money.
Good point and interesting. But I think these screens are all very consistent quality wise. Meaning less variances than previous type display technologies. I put two or three MBP 14 next to each other and they all look very much the same - display wise.
I'm super sensitive to this kind of build quality issue, and I can assure you my 14" is rock solid.
I returned my 11" iPad Pro because it was quite flimsy. I ended up getting the previous model 10.5" iPad Pro which is solid as a rock and I really prefer it (also headphone jack for the win!).
I would definitely notice if my 14" was creaking or flexing.
I returned my 11" iPad Pro because it was quite flimsy. I ended up getting the previous model 10.5" iPad Pro which is solid as a rock and I really prefer it (also headphone jack for the win!).
I would definitely notice if my 14" was creaking or flexing.
I have the 16 and it feels quite stiff given the size and weight of the thing. I pick it up with one hand from the side and it's always been fine. It overall feels stiffer than my 2015 MacBook Pro 15.
Id hazard a guess that the case screws were not torqued correctly or overly torqued during manufacturing. Lack of machine calibration due to reduced down time and production targets. SMH.
Which is what people have been told repeatedly never to do. With any notebook at that. Aluminium is a soft metal and if you are going to have the bulk of the weight of the laptop hanging off the corner you are holding, of course it is going to flex and it is not going to do your notebook any good.