Is the Speaker Grille on the 16-inch MacBook A2485 Actually Open?

2021 M1 MacBook Pro Pro Max | Tear-Down Disassembly ( A2485 ) 16”

Key Takeaway

Only the lower section of the grille has real openings. About one fifth of the pattern passes light and air. The upper pattern is cosmetic and protective.

Experience: What We Tested On a Real MacBook A2485

We inspected a retail 16-inch MacBook Pro model A2485 under strong backlighting. We compared both sides of the speaker grille, photographed the pattern, and noted which areas transmit light. We repeated the test after a gentle clean to avoid dust artifacts.

Result summary

We have checked both of the the speakers grill area against the light and the answer is that the speaker grill on both sides has actual hols but only about 20% of what you see on the lower area is actual hols and rest is only for design and has no purpose,

honestly i think its good that they did not make hols more than what is necessary for great sound to come out as exposing inside the laptop to outside elements can result in higher chance of accidental liquid damage to the laptop,

if you want to see for your self see the actual pictures of the below that been taken against the light and the hols are fully visible .

Lower grille region shows true perforations.
Upper grille region is closed from behind.
Visual patterns are uniform, but airflow is not.

MacBook Pro Speakers Grill 16inch 2021 Model A2485

Expertise: Why Limit the Open Area?

Apple balances acoustic tuning, debris control, and structural strength. A fully open lattice can invite dust and liquid into the chamber. A partially open lower section supports sound pressure while reducing ingress risk, rattles, and cloth snagging.

For most users this is positive. It keeps clarity stable and protects internal components under daily use.

When It Matters For You

Cleaning: Use a soft brush or clean microfiber. Avoid liquids and compressed air at close range.
Audio checks: Test with known good sources and safe volume. If sound is muffled after a spill, power down and seek service.
Repairs: Grilles are part of the top case assembly. Speaker swaps or top case work should be done by trained technicians.

If your display is cracked or dim, see our A2485 screen replacement page for parts, pricing, and mail-in steps.

Clear Answers: MacBook A2485 FAQ

Does the MacBook A2485 grille have real holes?

Yes, but not everywhere. The lower region of the pattern is open. The upper area is cosmetic.

Will cleaning the model A2485 grille improve sound?

Light dusting can help appearance. Sound changes are minimal unless debris blocks the open area.

Is the 14-inch model similar?

Design goals are similar. Patterns and internal baffles can differ by model year and size.

After a spill my speakers sound dull. What now?

Power down, avoid charging, and contact a repair specialist. Liquids can reach internal components even with partial shielding.

Question: Is the speaker grill in 2021 16 inch MacBook pro M1 A2485 are just for show? Like it’s not a hole at all? Since it seems like from the video that the grill is just on the outside and on the inside like there isn’t any hole. It’s just solid?? good tear-down video anyway….

Answer: Good question and thanks for watching our teardown video in youtube, i have included the link here for others to watch how we part out this model… but to your question….