The Apple MacBook Pro 17″ uses a lithium-ion polymer battery rated between 10.8 and 11.26 V with a capacity of about 55 to 95 Wh, depending on the year and chassis. Early silver models (2006 to early 2008) use removable packs like the A1261, while the unibody models (late 2008 to 2011) use the internal A1297 family rated around 95 Wh. Across this category we list 18 distinct part numbers, all priced at $64.99, so confirm your exact model to pick the right one.

Find your exact model by checking the year or model identifier and the EMC number printed on the bottom of the machine. That tells you whether you have a removable pre-unibody pack (such as A1151, A1212, A1229, or A1261) or the internal unibody A1297. With about 77 compatible models covered by 18 part numbers, matching the year is the surest way. Part numbers like 020-6380-A or 661-5229 can also be cross-referenced against your current battery label.

An Apple MacBook Pro 17″ replacement battery costs $64.99 in this category. That single price applies across all 18 part numbers we carry, from the removable pre-unibody packs to the internal A1297 unibody battery. Because the price is the same, your only decision is matching the correct part number to your specific year and model, so identify your machine first before ordering.

No, Apple MacBook Pro 17″ batteries are not broadly interchangeable. The line splits into removable pre-unibody packs (A1151, A1212, A1229, A1261) and the internal unibody A1297 family, and these are not compatible with each other. Even within the unibody era, it is best to verify the specific year (for example Early 2011 versus Late 2011) for firmware compatibility. With voltages ranging from 10.8 to 11.26 V across 18 part numbers, the safe approach is to match your exact model.

The two sub-series differ mainly in battery accessibility and capacity. The Pre-Unibody Silver models (2006 to early 2008) use a removable lithium-ion polymer battery with a built-in charge indicator that lifts out without tools. The Unibody Aluminum models (late 2008 to 2011) use an internal A1297 battery rated around 95 Wh, secured with tri-wing screws inside the bottom case. Voltage across the line runs from 10.8 to 11.26 V, and part numbers like A1322557 and 020-5071-B tie to specific years.

Find the battery part number printed directly on the battery itself, visible on removable pre-unibody packs once you flip the machine over and release the battery. On unibody models you remove the bottom case to see the label on the internal A1297 pack. You can also identify the correct part by the model year and EMC number on the underside of the machine, then cross-reference numbers like MA348LL/A or 661-5229 against our listings.

Yes, you can replace it yourself with the right approach for your model. On Pre-Unibody Silver models (2006 to early 2008), the removable battery lifts out of the bottom case with no tools. On Unibody Aluminum models, you unscrew the bottom case and remove the internal A1297 pack, which is held in by tri-wing (tri-lobe) screws, so you will need a tri-wing screwdriver. Work slowly and keep track of the small screws when reassembling.

Signs include rapid charge loss, the machine shutting down well before reaching zero, and a battery that no longer holds capacity near its original 55 to 95 Wh rating. On older unibody models, an irregular or stiff trackpad click can indicate the internal A1297 pack is expanding and pushing against the case. If your charge cycles climb high and runtime drops sharply, it is time to replace the battery with the correct part for your model.