The Wirecutter Show Is The New $600 MacBook Neo Actually A Good Deal?
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Mar 13, 2026 Brenda Stolyar, senior staff writer covering smartphones, tablets, and wearables, breaks down Apple’s new $600 iPhone 17e and MacBook Neo. She discusses what Apple cut to reach the price. Short takes cover the 17e’s camera and display compromises, the Neo’s A‑series chip and fixed 8GB RAM, and why Apple is leaning into more affordable hardware now.
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Affordability Is Relative To Apple’s Lineup
- Apple’s $599 MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e are affordable mainly within Apple’s ecosystem rather than the broader market.
- The MacBook Neo is $500 cheaper than the MacBook Air and education pricing drops it to $499, making it a gateway Apple option.
Hands On Impressions Show Surprisingly Premium Build
- Brenda expected the MacBook Neo to feel cheaper but found it has an aluminum chassis and the same 2.7-pound weight as the MacBook Air.
- The Neo is thicker (more durable for backpacks) and comes in subtle colors like citrus, blush, indigo, and silver with color-matched keyboards.
iPhone 17e Cuts Camera Versatility
- The iPhone 17e sacrifices camera versatility: a single 48MP rear sensor and a 12MP front camera, lacking the ultra-wide and upgraded front features of the iPhone 17.
- That makes the 17e fine for casual snapshots but a poor choice for photography enthusiasts who rely on multi-lens setups.