Towards the end of 2025, rumors of an affordable MacBook began to emerge. The idea was that this model would compete directly with Chromebooks and affordable Windows laptops and would be aimed at students, professionals, and casual users who didn’t want to spend $1,000 on an entry-level MacBook. According to Taiwanese market research firm TrendForce, the long-rumored entry-to-mid-range MacBook is expected to launch in spring 2026, potentially giving budget-conscious buyers a new reason to consider macOS.
According to analysts, this device would feature a 12.9-inch display, making it a hair smaller than the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air, but large enough for productivity and everyday use. The size is in line with some iPad Pro models and suggests that Apple may borrow design elements from its tablet lineup to keep the new notebook slim and portable.
An A18 Pro on the inside, a competitive price on the outside
Although official specifications have not been confirmed, several reports suggest that the budget MacBook will come with a version of the A18 Pro chip, the same silicon found in the iPhone 16 Pro lineup. On paper, this is a sensible move. Apple’s A-series chips are already known for their strong performance per watt, delivering consistent everyday speed while consuming power in phones and tablets. That balance could translate into great battery life and reliable day-to-day performance without the added cost of Apple’s higher-end M-series processors. There have also been rumors about rekindling relations between Apple and Intel, but these reports appear to be limited to production of the entry-level M-series and not a return to Intel chips or anything related to the A-series roadmap.
Using an A-series chip isn’t just about saving money. It creates a clear performance tier between Apple’s iPad lineup and more powerful MacBooks, giving the company a new middle ground. This positioning could be particularly attractive to students, first-time Mac buyers, or anyone who finds the MacBook Air a little too expensive. Apple’s currently cheapest notebook is the MacBook Air, starting at around $999. It’s an excellent all-rounder, but in terms of price it beats many Windows alternatives. A MacBook priced below that, perhaps in the sub-$800 range, would greatly increase Apple’s appeal and bring macOS to a much larger audience.
Currently, Apple has not confirmed the existence of this affordable MacBook, nor has it revealed any launch details. But with a window of spring 2026, an announcement could be just months away.
