Apple launches MacBook Neo at $599 with A18 Pro chip, 13-inch display and new colors. Check full specs, features, price and how to preorder.
Unlike the company’s premium laptops powered by M-series chips, the MacBook Neo runs on the A18 Pro chip — the same processor that debuted in the iPhone 16 lineup two years ago. (Photo: Apple)
Apple has officially introduced its most affordable laptop yet, the MacBook Neo, starting at just $599. The new entry-level MacBook aims to attract students and everyday users who want Apple’s design and performance at a lower price point.
Unlike the company’s premium laptops powered by M-series chips, the MacBook Neo runs on the A18 Pro chip — the same processor that debuted in the iPhone 16 lineup two years ago. Apple positions the Neo as a lightweight, everyday laptop for browsing, streaming, studying, and productivity tasks.
Here’s a complete breakdown of MacBook Neo specs, features, price, and how to preorder.
The MacBook Neo features a 13-inch LED-backlit IPS display with a resolution of 2,408 x 1,506 pixels at 219 pixels per inch. The screen delivers up to 500 nits of brightness, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Under the hood, it includes:
Apple equips the laptop with a 1080p FaceTime camera, side-firing speakers with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos support, and a color-matched Magic Keyboard with a multi-touch trackpad.
The device measures 0.50 inches in height, 11.71 inches in width, and 8.12 inches in depth. It weighs just 2.7 pounds (1.23 kg), making it highly portable.
The MacBook Neo includes:
However, Apple excludes Thunderbolt ports and MagSafe charging support, features that come standard on the MacBook Air.
The Neo ships with a 20W charger and does not support fast charging like higher-end models.
For display expansion, the laptop supports one external monitor up to 4K resolution at 60Hz while maintaining its native display resolution. The USB 3 (USB-C) port supports DisplayPort 1.4 speeds (up to HBR3).
Apple offers two storage variants:
Students and educators can purchase the 256GB version for $499 and the 512GB version for $599.
One key difference between the models is security. Touch ID fingerprint authentication is only available on the 512GB version. The 256GB model does not include Touch ID.
The pricing places the Neo well below the new M5 MacBook Air, which starts at $1,099.
Apple offers the Neo in four colors:
Apple says the colors "extend to the Magic Keyboard in lighter shades and new wallpapers, creating a cohesive design aesthetic."
The aluminum chassis maintains Apple’s minimalist design language while introducing fresh color options aimed at younger buyers.
The A18 Pro chip provides enough performance for:
However, the 8GB RAM limit and lack of upgrade options make it less suitable for heavy video editing or advanced professional workloads.
Given its price and feature set, the Neo is likely to become a popular back-to-school and graduation gift option.
Customers can preorder the MacBook Neo directly through Apple’s official website. Preorders are available for all four color options, silver, indigo, blush, and citrus.
The laptop officially launches on Wednesday, March 11. Buyers can choose between the 256GB and 512GB variants during checkout. Students and educators can access discounted pricing through Apple’s education store section.
Early preordering is recommended for those who want delivery on launch day, especially for specific color and storage combinations.
The MacBook Neo fills the gap between Apple’s premium laptops and budget Windows or ChromeOS devices. While it includes some compromises like limited RAM and fewer ports, it delivers Apple’s design, performance efficiency, and ecosystem integration at a significantly lower price.
With its competitive pricing and fresh color lineup, the MacBook Neo aims to bring more users into Apple’s laptop ecosystem.
