MacBook Neo Review: Looks Expensive, Costs Less Than You'd Think

The MacBook Neo pulls off a neat trick: it looks and feels like a premium machine without the premium price tag. That's the headline from Tom's Hardware's full review.

The wins are real. A chassis that punches well above its weight class. A vivid display that'll make you forget what you paid. And a mechanical touchpad that's clickable anywhere — no more hunting for the sweet spot.

But there are trade-offs. No backlit keyboard is a baffling omission in 2026. Typing in dim lighting? Good luck. The USB-C ports also ship without labels, leaving users guessing which port does what.

For budget-conscious buyers who mostly work in well-lit rooms, the Neo is a compelling option. For everyone else, those missing basics might be dealbreakers. Premium vibes only go so far when you're squinting at your keyboard in the dark.