The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 3.0 13-Inch (Early 2013 Retina Display) technically is a "configure-to-order" configuration of the MacBook Pro "Core i5" 2.6 13-Inch (Early 2013 Retina Display), but also is documented as a separate model for reader convenience. Other than processor (and the corresponding larger level 3 cache), these two models are identical.

The MacBook Pro "Core i7" 3.0 13-Inch (Early 2013 Retina Display) features a 22 nm "Ivy Bridge" 3.0 GHz Intel "Core i7" processor (3540M), with dual independent processor "cores" on a single silicon chip, a 4 MB shared level 3 cache, 8 GB of onboard 1600 MHz DDR3L SDRAM (which cannot be upgraded at all), 256 GB of flash storage, an integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 graphics processor that shares memory with the system, an integrated 720p FaceTime HD webcam, and a high-resolution LED-backlit 13.3" widescreen 2560x1600 (227 ppi) "retina" display in a case that weighs just a bit more than 3.5 pounds (1.62 kg). It does not have an internal optical drive.

Connectivity includes 3-stream AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.0, two USB 3.0 ports, two "Thunderbolt" ports, an HDMI port, an audio in/out port, and an SDXC card slot. It does not have Gigabit Ethernet or Firewire "800," although adapters are available at extra cost.

In addition, this model has a backlit keyboard, a "no button" glass "inertial" multi-touch trackpad, a "MagSafe 2" power adapter, and an internal, sealed battery that provides an Apple estimated 7 hours of battery life.