MacBook Neo hands-on: Apple's $599 laptop feels shockingly great

Apple launched the MacBook Neo, its most affordable laptop, priced at $599. The Neo aims to fill a new market segment, distinct from the premium MacBook Air and Pro models. The laptop features an attractive, colorful aluminum design, comparable in weight to the MacBook Air. Its 13-inch screen appears vibrant, outperforming similarly priced HP laptops in brightness and color. The Neo's speakers deliver superior audio quality compared to budget PCs, providing clear dialog and detailed sound. Gaming performance, as demonstrated with Oceanhorn 3, proved smooth. The Neo includes a headphone jack and two USB-C ports, though one is slower, and lacks a MagSafe charging port. The keyboard feels a bit flimsy, and the color-matched keys may not appear as bold in person. Its mechanical trackpad offers full clickability but lacks the sturdiness of more expensive models. The base model offers 8GB of RAM and 256GB storage, with an upgrade to 512GB and Touch ID available. While 8GB of RAM may suffice, its longevity is uncertain due to the A18 Pro chip's performance. The MacBook Neo offers an accessible way to experience macOS, potentially appealing to schools.