Apple’s ‘affordable’ MacBook arrival rumors heat up

By Varun Mirchandani Published January 3, 2026

Towards the end of 2025, rumors around an affordable MacBook had started surfacing. The idea was that this model would compete directly with Chromebooks and affordable Windows laptops, targeting students, professionals, and casual users who don’t want to spend $1,000 on an entry-level MacBook. Now, 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.

This device, according to the analysts, would come with a 12.9-inch display, putting it a hair smaller than the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air but large enough for productivity and everyday use. The size matches some iPad Pro models and hints that Apple might be taking design cues from its tablet lineup to keep the new notebook slim and portable.

While official specs haven’t been confirmed, multiple reports point to the budget MacBook being powered by a version of the A18 Pro chip, the same silicon found in the iPhone 16 Pro lineup. On paper, that’s a sensible move. Apple’s A-series chips are already known for strong performance per watt, delivering smooth everyday speed while sipping power in phones and tablets. That balance could translate into excellent battery life and reliable daily performance without the added cost of Apple’s higher-end M-series processors. There’s been some chatter about Apple rekindling ties with Intel as well, but those reports appear limited to entry-level M-series production rather than a return to Intel-branded silicon or anything tied to the A-series roadmap.

Using an A-series chip here isn’t just about saving money, either. It creates a clear performance tier between the iPad lineup and Apple’s more powerful MacBooks, giving the company a new middle ground. That positioning could be especially appealing to students, first-time Mac buyers, or anyone who finds the MacBook Air just a bit too expensive. Right now, Apple’s most affordable laptop is the MacBook Air, starting around $999. It’s an excellent all-rounder, but it still undercuts many Windows alternatives on value. A MacBook priced below that, potentially in the sub-$800 range, would significantly widen Apple’s appeal and make macOS accessible to a much larger audience.

For now, Apple hasn’t confirmed the existence of this affordable MacBook or shared launch details. But with a spring 2026 window, an announcement might be just a few months away.