The first MacBook Neo showed that Apple can compete in the budget laptop market. After the $599 model’s big success in March 2026, Apple is already working on a strong follow-up.
Industry leaker Lanzuk says Apple is increasing its manufacturing targets for the upcoming MacBook Neo 2. The company reportedly plans to double production for this new model. For comparison, Apple aimed to ship about eight million units of the first Neo. If the latest leaks are accurate, Apple expects to ship over 16 million of the second-generation model in the first half of 2027.
Earlier this year, former Apple CEO Tim Cook celebrated the launch of the original budget laptop on social media. The move worked. Many everyday buyers and parents who wanted an alternative to Chromebooks quickly chose the entry-level MacBook.
Buyers often post positive reviews on forums like Reddit, saying the laptop offers good value. But longtime Mac users often criticize it for having too many hardware trade-offs compared to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.
Apple is keeping the hardware details for the next model secret. Some rumors say the 2027 version might have 12GB of RAM and an A19 Pro chip, but these details are unconfirmed and should be viewed with caution this early.
No matter what the final specs are, Apple’s large manufacturing plans show the company sees budget laptops as a lasting and profitable part of its lineup. Anyone looking for an affordable Mac should watch for updates in early 2027.
