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I’ve loved using the MacBook Neo so far, but one issue keeps getting in the way: popping and clicking sounds over USB audio, especially under heavier load. I’m convinced this is a software problem Apple can fix, but it’s still worth calling out before it pushes more users to return an otherwise great laptop.
Four days into using the MacBook Neo, I’m more convinced than ever that a lot of people judged this laptop without understanding it. The A18 Pro is far more capable than expected, the 8GB of RAM has held up surprisingly well, and in real use, this feels like a serious computer, not some cheap Chromebook-style compromise.
I got the MacBook Neo on launch day, and after actually using it, I’m convinced a lot of reviewers judged it by the wrong standard. It’s not perfect, but for $600, the Neo feels shockingly premium, fast for everyday use, and far better than the internet has been giving it credit for.
The MacBook Neo isn’t perfect, but at $599, it doesn’t need to be. Too many reviewers are judging it like a budget MacBook Pro, when it’s really a smart, focused laptop for normal people who just want a fast, reliable computer.
Apple wrapped up its big announcement week with updates across the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and display lineup, but for me, the MacBook Neo is the most interesting product of the bunch. While it’s already getting some hate online, I think it could end up being a great option for normal people who just want an affordable, capable laptop for everyday tasks.