MacBook Neo review: My biggest concern with Apple's near-perfect budget laptop
Apple's new $599 laptop brings MacOS to budget buyers but raises durability questions.
Apple's MacBook Neo represents a strategic shift toward accessibility in the laptop market, launching at $599 with a 13-inch Liquid Retina display and powered by an A19 chipset derived from iPhone technology. ZDNET's review finds the device successfully delivers the essential MacBook experience—including familiar MacOS features and strong battery life—at nearly half the price of traditional MacBook Air models. The Neo leverages Apple's mature technology portfolio to create what reviewer Kyle Kucharski calls "a successful balancing act between usability and exclusivity."
However, the review raises significant concerns about the MacBook Neo's longevity and durability, questioning how the modest hardware will hold up after several years of use. While performance meets expectations for basic computing tasks, the device faces stiff competition from Windows laptops and Chromebooks in the same price range that may offer more robust hardware specifications. The Neo's introduction marks a turning point for Apple's laptop strategy, potentially redefining what consumers expect from budget-friendly MacBooks while challenging competitors in the entry-level market segment.
- Priced at $599 with 13-inch Liquid Retina display and A19 chipset
- Delivers core MacBook experience but raises durability concerns for long-term use
- Represents Apple's strategic shift toward budget accessibility in laptop market
Why It Matters
Brings MacOS to budget-conscious buyers, challenging Windows and Chromebook dominance in entry-level laptops.