Is the MacBook Neo enough laptop for you?
Apple's cheapest Mac costs $699, runs on the iPhone's A18 Pro chip and comes with 8GB of memory. That covers most everyday work and falls short for some. Tick what you do and see which side you are on.
What will you use it for?
What you get for $699
| Chip | Apple A18 Pro: 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine |
|---|---|
| Memory | 8GB on both models |
| Storage | 256GB or 512GB SSD |
| Display | 13.0-inch Liquid Retina, 2408 × 1506, 500 nits |
| Battery | Up to 16 hours of video streaming, up to 11 hours of wireless web (Apple's figures) |
| Weight | 2.7 lb (1.23 kg) |
| Size | 0.50 × 11.71 × 8.12 in |
| Ports | USB-C (USB 3, 10Gb/s, DisplayPort), USB-C (USB 2, 480Mb/s), 3.5 mm headphone jack |
| External display | One, up to 4K at 60Hz |
| Camera | 1080p FaceTime HD |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 6 |
| Colors | Silver, Blush, Citrus, Indigo |
| In the box | 20W USB-C power adapter, 1.5 m USB-C cable |
Where Apple saved money
The Neo costs several hundred dollars less than a MacBook Air. These are the trade-offs that pay for it.
8GB of memory, no other option
Both models ship with 8GB. Fine for one or two apps at a time; heavy multitasking will feel it.
No keyboard backlight
Reviewers note the keys are not lit. If you often work in dim rooms, this matters more than it sounds.
Touch ID only on the 512GB model
The 256GB model unlocks with a password. Fingerprint unlock comes with the $799 version.
One fast port, one slow port
The USB 3 port handles charging, a monitor and 10Gb/s data. The other is USB 2 at 480Mb/s, best kept for charging or a mouse.
A 20W charger and no MagSafe
It charges over USB-C with a phone-sized adapter. There is no magnetic charging connector.
A 60Hz screen
The display is sharp and bright at 500 nits, without the 120Hz smoothness of pricier MacBooks.
256GB or 512GB?
256GB
No Touch ID. Enough if your files live in the cloud.
512GB
Adds Touch ID and doubles the storage for $100 more. The safer pick if you plan to keep it for years.
The Neo went on sale on March 11, 2026 at $599 and $699. On June 25, 2026 Apple raised both models by $100, citing a memory chip shortage. Education pricing is $599 and $699. Retail prices move, so check today's price before you buy.
See today's price on AmazonCommon questions
Does the MacBook Neo run macOS?
Yes. It runs the same macOS as other Macs, on an A18 Pro chip instead of an M-series chip.
Can you add more memory later?
No. Both models come with 8GB and Apple offers no larger option.
Does the MacBook Neo have Touch ID?
Only the 512GB model. The 256GB model does not.
How long does the battery last?
Apple states up to 16 hours of video streaming and up to 11 hours of wireless web browsing.
Can it connect to an external monitor?
Yes, one external display at up to 4K and 60Hz, through the USB 3 port.
How much does the MacBook Neo cost?
Apple's list prices are $699 for 256GB and $799 for 512GB as of October 2026.