Next week, Apple is expected to reveal its most affordable MacBook yet, featuring a 12.9-inch display and powered by the A18 Pro chip. With a starting price rumored to be around $699, the new model aims to provide a budget-friendly option for consumers while still maintaining key elements typical of MacBooks, such as long battery life and a durable aluminum chassis.
However, to achieve the lower price point, Apple may implement several compromises. The budget MacBook might feature a 400 nit display without True Tone support, limited storage options, slower SSD speeds, and the absence of a keyboard backlight. Additionally, it will rely on a Mediatek networking chip instead of the more advanced N1 chip found in higher-end models.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the A18 Pro chip is anticipated to perform comparably to the M1 in certain benchmarks, indicating strong capability for entry-level users. The MacBook Air, priced at around $749, could provide stiff competition, especially if the budget MacBook is priced lower, potentially at $649 or $599. The launch will take place during a week filled with Apple announcements, providing a clearer picture of the product’s positioning against the MacBook Air.