Well, there goes any reason to buy an iPad Air

Source: Engadget

Introduction

Apple recently announced the MacBook Neo, a 13‑inch laptop that offers the full macOS experience for just $599. Many fans have been waiting for an affordable MacBook since the rise of netbooks. While the Neo’s specifications have some drawbacks, it still provides a compelling alternative to the iPad Air for users who need a more functional machine.

Comparison with the iPad Air

• Ports & Input: The Neo includes two USB‑C ports, a real keyboard, and a trackpad, whereas the iPad Air has a single USB‑C port and requires an additional $270 for a keyboard and trackpad.
• Battery Life: The Neo boasts up to 16 hours of battery life.
• Operating System: The Neo runs macOS with proper multitasking, while the iPad Air runs iPadOS, which is more limited for desktop‑class workflows.

Performance

• Chipset: The Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip. Although it is slower than Apple’s M‑Series silicon, raw performance isn’t the primary concern for a device positioned as an affordable Chromebook‑like laptop.
• Benchmarks: In synthetic tests, the A18 Pro outperformed the Intel Core i3‑1315U found in many low‑end laptops (e.g., Framework 12).
• Power Efficiency: The A18 Pro consumes about 8 W, compared to the 15 W required by the Intel chip, contributing to the Neo’s long battery life.
• Memory: With 8 GB of RAM, the Neo can run macOS and its applications at an acceptable level for its target audience.

Intended Audience

The Neo is aimed at users who need a lightweight, inexpensive laptop for light work—tasks the iPad was originally meant to enable but never fully delivered. As Devindra Hardawar noted, the target market mirrors those who purchased the Walmart‑sold MacBook Air M1. These users typically do not prioritize high‑speed USB bandwidth or advanced AI features that can make Windows less enjoyable.

Conclusion

While many hoped the iPad would evolve to bridge the tablet‑laptop gap, Apple ultimately chose to create a laptop that matches the tablet’s price point. For those seeking a device that can handle everyday computing tasks with a full keyboard, trackpad, and macOS, the MacBook Neo presents a more practical option than the iPad Air.

This article originally appeared on Engadget.