Apple MacBook Neo (2026) A18 Pro 256GB Citrus QWERTY

With the lightweight Apple MacBook Neo, I perform my daily tasks smoothly and quickly. However, the MacBook does struggle with heavier apps and files. Because the 256GB storage model lacks Touch ID, I unfortunately always have to type my password and work less smoothly.

MacBook, but more colorful The Apple MacBook Neo is the most colorful MacBook Apple has ever made. Naturally, I opt for the striking citrus color, which leads to compliments from colleagues and friends. This eye-catching color is reflected throughout the design. For instance, the MacBook Neo's keyboard is light yellow, creating a colorful overall look. Furthermore, the MacBook Neo is exactly what I expect from a MacBook. For instance, the MacBook is not made of plastic but features a sturdy aluminum design. Additionally, this MacBook also has a sharp Liquid Retina display, on which I can see even small details clearly. The model I am testing has only 256GB of storage. This means I do not have a Touch ID fingerprint scanner, something the 512GB storage model does have. I do miss Touch ID, because I now have to type my password over and over again. As a result, I log in less quickly and make payments less easily on my MacBook.

Surprisingly powerful, but not an all-rounder The Apple MacBook Neo runs on the A18 Pro chip, the same processor as my iPhone 16 Pro. That is why I was naturally very curious about the power of this MacBook. Conclusion: The MacBook Neo does not disappoint. For instance, this model is powerful enough to perform daily tasks smoothly. I surf the internet, shop for new furniture, and throw everything into a clear spreadsheet. I also use Apple Intelligence and chat with my favorite AI assistant. I do notice, however, that the MacBook Neo only has 8 gigabytes of RAM. With heavier apps like Photoshop, the MacBook Neo slows down, and apps and files start to stutter. Therefore, for heavier tasks, I would recommend the Apple MacBook Air instead.

Everything in the ecosystem Besides the MacBook Neo, I also have an iPhone and AirPods. All these devices are part of the Apple ecosystem, which means they are designed to work together. For instance, my AirPods connect to my MacBook super fast, and I effortlessly share files from my iPhone using the AirDrop function. Thanks to this collaboration, the Apple MacBook Neo is very smooth to use.

After using Android and Linux for private use for years, I switched to an iPhone. Simply because it just works, without any hassle, and receives long-term updates (Samsung…?). Next, an iPad basically followed naturally.

A MacBook had always been on my wish list, but I simply didn't think it was worth €1,500+. As an IT professional, I use a laptop as little as possible for private use, so a traditional MacBook never really made sense to me. I'm already working with Windows all day, and at home I just want something that works: a bit of browsing, checking email, watching videos. Nothing more than that. And at a normal price, of course.

And that is exactly where this Neo excels.

Yes, it has an iPhone 16 Pro Max chip inside, but it is lightning fast!

Yes, it has “only” 8 GB of RAM, but if you know what you want to do with it, that is a fine choice. In fact, if you don't even know that 8 GB is considered a small amount these days, you probably belong to the target group that won't even notice it.

No backlit keyboard? Well, just turn on the light and you're all set. It's almost summertime, too! Moreover: it types surprisingly pleasantly.

Tip: don't hesitate between the 256GB and 512GB variants; the latter features TouchID, which makes your life much easier when unlocking, authorizing Apple Pay payments, and so much more.

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