For many years, Chromebooks have been the leading choice in the budget laptop category. Nevertheless, with the introduction of the MacBook Neo, Apple establishes a new standard for computers priced below $599, offering exceptional built quality, a high-performance processor, and several additional features such as a quality webcam and a complete operating system, unlike Chromebooks which operate solely with Google Chrome. While budget shoppers looking for a $150 option may not be swayed by the MacBook Neo, those inclined to invest around $500 may find it challenging to resist upgrading to a Mac, since even pricier Chromebooks don’t compare to Apple’s design.
For instance, a Samsung Galaxy Chromebook may provide an aluminum finish, or you might opt for a 2-in-1 model from Lenovo or Acer, enabling you to use your Chromebook as a tablet as well. However, these options could exceed the $600 threshold, risk delivering subpar performance, lackluster finishes, or potentially come with a poor webcam. Additionally, a more significant distinction between a MacBook and a Chromebook is the operating systems: macOS versus ChromeOS.
Even if the MacBook Neo didn’t boast aesthetic appeal, it would still run macOS. Chromebooks are designed primarily for online use, relying heavily on cloud services like Google Docs. Thus, if you need to work offline, they won’t perform as effectively as a comprehensive operating system like macOS. Moreover, the range of apps on ChromeOS is more restricted. For instance, Adobe Photoshop or advanced editing tools aren’t as readily accessible compared to their availability on macOS. Initial reviews suggest that the MacBook Neo performs admirably in photo and video editing tasks, surpassing what most Chromebooks can handle.
Apple also claims that for local AI tasks and web browsing, the MacBook Neo’s A18 Pro vastly outperforms the latest Intel Core Ultra 5, which is a much better processor than what most Chromebooks possess. Given that Apple manages both the hardware and software for its MacBook Neo, it’s evident why this laptop delivers superior performance relative to Chromebooks and other Windows laptops in a similar price bracket.
Naturally, although shoppers can find certain Chromebook models offering up to 16GB of RAM, superior OLED displays, and additional features, the price can reach a point where purchasing a refurbished MacBook Air or an M2 or M3 model may be a more sensible option than acquiring these ChromeOS devices.
What makes the MacBook Neo particularly appealing is Apple’s focus on the educational sector, a realm that Chromebooks have previously dominated. With a $499 educational price point, students receive a device featuring an aluminum finish, quality keyboards and trackpads (though it lacks the Force Touch found in other Apple MacBooks), a powerful processor that is even more capable than the M1, a decent webcam, and complete macOS compatibility. For an additional $100, users can also upgrade to 512GB of storage instead of the standard 256GB, along with Touch ID support.
Early reviews indicate that the speakers are surprisingly impressive, even though they are side-firing. The 13-inch LCD display from Apple has also received positive feedback, despite not supporting P3 Gamut, which would enhance color vibrancy. Nevertheless, the general consensus appears to be that if you are searching for a laptop to accompany you in the coming years—whether you are starting college or seeking a reliable daily device—the MacBook Neo is the top choice for non-technical users who prefer a laptop that won’t underperform after just a couple of years.