Why Do Black or Grey Screens Happen?
Both the 2013 Mac Pro and 2013 MacBook Pro can face screen-related problems for several reasons:
- GPU or graphics card conflicts – Outdated drivers or failing hardware.
- macOS update failure – Incomplete or corrupted updates.
- Peripheral conflicts – External devices interfering during startup.
- PRAM/SMC errors – Incorrect system settings are causing boot issues.
- Display connector faults – Loose or faulty cables (more common with Mac Pro).
- Hardware ageing – GPU or motherboard components deteriorating over time.
Step-by-Step Fixes for Black/Grey Screen Issues
1. Check Power and Connections (Mac Pro)
- Ensure power cables are firmly connected.
- Test HDMI, DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt cables with another monitor.
- Swap cables to rule out faulty connectors.
2. Disconnect External Devices
- Remove USB devices, external drives, or hubs.
- Restart without peripherals and reconnect one at a time to identify conflicts.
3. Perform a Force Restart
- Hold the power button for 10 seconds until the device shuts down.
- Please wait a few seconds, then power it back on.
4. Reset PRAM and SMC
- PRAM Reset: Hold Command + Option + P + R for 20 seconds after powering on.
- SMC Reset (Intel models only): Shut down, unplug power, wait 15 seconds, then restart.
5. Boot in Safe Mode
- Hold Shift while restarting.
- This turns off non-essential extensions and helps identify faulty apps.
6. Try Recovery Mode
- Hold Command + R at startup.
- Use Disk Utility to repair the disk.
- Reinstall macOS if necessary.
7. Hardware Checks
- For Mac Pro: test with another monitor.
- For MacBook Pro: Check for flickering or a dim backlight, which may indicate a GPU failure.
Comparison: Screen Issues on 2013 Mac Pro vs. 2013 MacBook Pro
| Feature / Issue | 2013 Mac Pro | 2013 MacBook Pro |
| Standard Screen Symptom | Black screen on startup, grey screen loop, or freeze | Grey screen freeze or black startup display |
| Likely Cause | GPU/driver conflicts, faulty display cables | PRAM errors, macOS corruption, aging GPU |
| Fix That Works Best | Reset PRAM/SMC, test with another monitor | Boot into Safe Mode, reinstall macOS via Recovery |
| Hardware Concerns | GPU failure, RAM modules, logic board | GPU chip wear, display connector issues |
| Ease of DIY Fix | Moderate (requires external display testing) | Easier (built-in screen allows quicker checks) |
| When to Seek Repair | Persistent black screen despite resets | Repeated grey screen after updates |
This table highlights the differences in troubleshooting between the Mac Pro and MacBook Pro while showing where fixes overlap.
Prevention Tips
- Keep your macOS up to date with the latest compatible version.
- Use genuine Apple-certified cables and adapters.
- Regularly disconnect unused peripherals.
- Avoid installing too many startup apps.
- Perform occasional maintenance to identify and address potential hardware issues early.
Why Choose Us?
When your Mac Pro or MacBook Pro screen stays black or grey, basic troubleshooting may not be enough. That is when professional expertise makes all the difference.
At Azizi Technologies UAE, we specialize in Mac repairs across Dubai and provide:
- Expert Diagnostics – Quickly identify whether the issue is hardware or software-related.
- Genuine Parts Replacement – We only use certified Apple components.
- Fast Repairs – Minimal downtime to get your device back up and running.
- Convenient Service – Supporting customers in Business Bay, Marina, JLT, and Downtown Dubai.
Final Thoughts:
A black or grey screen on your 2013 Mac Pro or MacBook Pro does not always mean the device is beyond repair. In many cases, simple steps like resetting PRAM/SMC, using Safe Mode, or reinstalling macOS can restore functionality. With patience, you can often resolve issues with your Mac without needing to replace it.
If the problem continues even after these fixes, it could be a sign of serious hardware issues. For Mac users in Dubai, Azizi Technologies UAE is a trusted choice for reliable repair services. Our experts ensure your device is restored quickly, so a black screen never slows down your work or creativity.
