Apple is working on a budget-friendly MacBook, slated for release in 2026. Positioned below the current MacBook Air, it aims to offer an alternative to inexpensive Windows laptops and Chromebooks. The focus is on a low entry price and solid performance for everyday use. Early details suggest that Apple intends to target new customer groups with this device, including students and users with basic needs.
A MacBook under $1,000 doesn't fit with Apple's current price point – but that's about to change. Bloomberg reports that Apple is working on a particularly affordable notebook. This isn't a new iPad with a keyboard, but a fully functional MacBook running macOS. The goal: a more affordable entry-level model with decent specifications that still provides access to the Apple ecosystem. Technical compromises are to be expected, but the overall package could be appealing to many.
Compact size and simple design
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the budget MacBook is expected to have a display with a diagonal of approximately 13 inches. This puts it in the same size range as the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air, but it could be slightly more compact. Specific details regarding thickness or weight are not yet available. Since it is a more affordable device, Apple will likely not aim for the thinnest possible chassis, but rather opt for a simple and cost-effective design. Nevertheless, the device should remain thinner and lighter than comparable entry-level notebooks running Windows or ChromeOS.
Display without high-end technology
A classic LCD display will be used. Apple will forgo more expensive technologies like Mini-LED or ProMotion with high refresh rates. This reflects its positioning as an entry-level model. The device is expected to be available in several colors – similar to the iMac. Possible options include silver, blue, pink, and yellow.
A18 Pro instead of M-Chip
One of the most striking decisions concerns the processor. Instead of an M-series chip, Apple is expected to use the A18 Pro – the same chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro. The A18 Pro is based on Apple's second 3-nanometer process and features 8 GB of RAM. It supports Apple Intelligence and delivers strong performance.
In the Geekbench 6 benchmarks, the chip achieves single-core scores on par with the M3 Ultra and multi-core scores that surpass the M1. GPU performance is largely equivalent to the M1 chip, making it well-suited for everyday tasks.
Areas of application and functions
With the A18 Pro, the affordable MacBook will cover a wide range of applications. Internet browsing, office tasks, video streaming, photo editing, and simple video projects are all easily possible. Apple Arcade and iOS games also run on it – with some limitations for graphically demanding titles.
The device also supports Apple Intelligence, which will make new AI features available within macOS. Apps like Final Cut Pro can also be run on it, although export times will be longer compared to more powerful Macs. This affordable MacBook could therefore be a potential replacement for iPads with a keyboard – but with the advantage of a full desktop operating system.
Features and battery life
Regarding ports, expect a limited selection. At least one USB-C port is likely, and two are possible but not confirmed. Apple will probably forgo additional interfaces like HDMI or an SD card reader.
Thanks to the efficient A18 Pro chip and the larger chassis compared to the iPhone, battery life should be on par with or better than the MacBook Air. Currently, the Air offers up to 18 hours of video playback and up to 15 hours of web browsing – similar figures can be expected for the more affordable model.
Price and positioning within the product range
There are no official details on the price yet, but according to Bloomberg, it will be significantly under $1,000. This would place the new MacBook below the current MacBook Air ($999). For reference:
- The 13-inch iPad Air with M2 costs $799 (€649 in Germany).
- The iPad mini with A17 Pro starts at $499 (€545 in Germany)
- The older M1 MacBook Air is being sold at Walmart for $599.
A price in the range of $499 to $799 is therefore realistic. Apple will likely position itself closer to the $599 mark – that would also make the device interesting for the education sector.
Planned market launch
The launch of the affordable MacBook is expected in the first half of 2026. Updates for the MacBook Air are planned concurrently, so both models could potentially be introduced at the same time. A spring launch would align with the existing product strategy – particularly with regard to the education market, where many new purchases are made before the start of the school year or semester.
macOS for everyone: Apple's most affordable notebook option
The planned budget MacBook will open a new product category for Apple. With a 13-inch LCD, the A18 Pro chip, and a price under $1,000, the device is aimed at users with basic needs who have previously opted for inexpensive Windows laptops or Chromebooks.
macOS, long battery life, support for Apple Intelligence, and a portable form factor make this device a genuine alternative in the entry-level segment. Those who can do without high-end features will likely get a solid notebook that makes accessing the Apple ecosystem easier and more affordable than ever before. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Tada Images)
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