Apple's 2026 MacBook lineup includes the new MacBook Neo, starting at $599, featuring A-series chips previously exclusive to iPhones.
MacBooks can be discounted up to $800, with Apple's refurbished store offering savings of up to 20% and a one-year warranty.
The MacBook Neo is a 13-inch model targeting Chromebooks and midrange Windows laptops, with design differences like no keyboard backlighting.
Finding deals on powerful MacBooks is easier with knowledge of where to look, especially for specific needs like multiple 6K display support.
📖 Full Retelling
The MacBook Neo weighs as much as a MacBook Air, but comes in some very playful colors. | Photo: Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge
It’s 2026, and that means Apple sells MacBooks equipped with not just its capable M-series processors but A-series chips that were previously exclusive to the iPhone. With the MacBook Neo starting at $599, the company now offers a wider range of options with more sizes and price points than ever before, all of which run the company’s newest operating system, macOS 26 .
Purchasing a new MacBook is easy if all you want is an affordable laptop. But if you have more specific needs and use cases that require a lot of power, or if you want to connect multiple 6K displays, it gets more complicated. That said, finding a deal on a relatively speedy model is surprisingly easy if you know where to look.
These days, it’s not uncommon to see various MacBooks discounted by up to $800, although the quality of deals fluctuates frequently. Alternatively, purchasing refurbished options directly from Apple is another way to save money without waiting for the changing deal winds to blow your way. It’s also the only option to find certain configurations of older models as Apple continues to launch newer versions. Apple’s refurbished store offers a one-year warranty and generally discounts new units by up to 20 percent.
But if you want to buy new and you’re looking to save whatever you can, here are the best MacBook Neo, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac Mini deals available.
The best MacBook Neo deals
Apple recently announced the MacBook Neo , a 13-inch laptop that aims to take on premium Chromebooks and midrange Windows laptops. Its design is somewhat similar to other MacBook models, but there are a handful of differences, ranging from the placement of the headphone jack and speakers to the thickness of the screen’s bezel (there’s also no keyboard backlighting). The most notable difference, however, is what powers it: the Ne
Chromebook (stylized in all-lowercase) is a line of laptops, desktops, tablets and all-in-one computers that run ChromeOS, a proprietary operating system developed by Google.
Chromebooks are optimised for web access. They also run Android apps, Linux applications, and progressive web apps which do n...
This news matters because it highlights Apple's strategic expansion into more affordable laptop markets, potentially disrupting the midrange Windows and Chromebook segments. It affects budget-conscious consumers, students, and professionals seeking Apple ecosystem access at lower price points. The availability of significant discounts and refurbished options makes premium computing more accessible while reflecting broader market trends toward price competition in the tech industry.
Context & Background
Apple traditionally positioned MacBooks as premium devices with higher price points than many Windows competitors
The company began transitioning from Intel processors to its own Apple Silicon chips starting in 2020 with the M1 chip
Apple has historically maintained tighter control over pricing and discounts compared to PC manufacturers
The refurbished Apple Store program has existed for years but gained prominence as consumers seek value
Chromebooks established dominance in education and budget markets that Apple previously didn't target
What Happens Next
Expect increased price competition in the midrange laptop market as Apple's Neo model pressures Chromebook and Windows laptop manufacturers. Retailers will likely offer more frequent and deeper discounts on MacBooks throughout 2026. Apple may expand the Neo line with additional sizes or configurations based on market reception. The refurbished market for Apple products will grow as newer models make older configurations more available at discounted prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the MacBook Neo different from other MacBooks?
The MacBook Neo uses A-series chips previously exclusive to iPhones rather than M-series processors, comes in playful colors, lacks keyboard backlighting, and has design differences like speaker placement and bezel thickness. It's positioned as an affordable entry point into the MacBook lineup.
How much can I save buying refurbished from Apple?
Apple's refurbished store typically discounts units by up to 20% off original prices and includes a one-year warranty. This provides significant savings while maintaining Apple's quality standards and support.
What operating system do these discounted MacBooks run?
All MacBooks mentioned in the article run macOS 26, Apple's newest operating system at the time of publication. This ensures compatibility with latest software and security updates regardless of purchase channel.
Are the deals mentioned only for new models?
No, the article discusses both new model discounts (up to $800 off) and refurbished options. The refurbished route provides consistent savings while new model deals fluctuate frequently based on retailer promotions.
Who should consider the MacBook Neo versus other models?
The MacBook Neo suits budget-conscious buyers, students, or those needing basic computing who want Apple ecosystem access. Those requiring more power, multiple 6K display support, or specific professional features should consider MacBook Air or Pro models instead.
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Original Source
Gadgets Tech Apple The best deals on MacBooks right now Apple’s latest laptops are all receiving some kind of discount right now, as is the Mac Mini. Apple’s latest laptops are all receiving some kind of discount right now, as is the Mac Mini. by Cameron Faulkner and Sheena Vasani Updated Mar 6, 2026, 7:13 PM UTC If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement. The MacBook Neo weighs as much as a MacBook Air, but comes in some very playful colors. Photo: Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge It’s 2026, and that means Apple sells MacBooks equipped with not just its capable M-series processors but A-series chips that were previously exclusive to the iPhone. With the MacBook Neo starting at $599, the company now offers a wider range of options with more sizes and price points than ever before, all of which run the company’s newest operating system, macOS 26 . Purchasing a new MacBook is easy if all you want is an affordable laptop. But if you have more specific needs and use cases that require a lot of power, or if you want to connect multiple 6K displays, it gets more complicated. That said, finding a deal on a relatively speedy model is surprisingly easy if you know where to look. These days, it’s not uncommon to see various MacBooks discounted by up to $800, although the quality of deals fluctuates frequently. Alternatively, purchasing refurbished options directly from Apple is another way to save money without waiting for the changing deal winds to blow your way. It’s also the only option to find certain configurations of older models as Apple continues to launch newer versions. Apple’s refurbished store offers a one-year warranty and generally discounts new units by up to 20 percent. Related The best laptops you can get MacBook Neo versus an old MacBook Air: good luck Apple announces M5 MacBook Air and updated MacBook Pro But if you want to buy new and you’re looking to save whatever you can, here are the best MacBoo...
