Table of Contents
amazon Apple MacBook 12 inch reviews
Design
In general, the Apple MacBook 12 inch still inherited beautiful design thanks to its luxurious aluminum profile and impressive 0.5-inch thinness. In addition to the traditional color options (silver, gray and yellow), the new laptop version adds feminine pink.
There is only one connection port
This is considered the biggest downside on Apple’s ultra-thin MacBook. Because only one USB Type C port is available, if you want to connect to other devices, you must use the USB-C Digital AV multiport Adapter – $ 79 (for iPhone).
Keyboard and Touchpad
To maximize the thinness, the keyboard of the recent MacBook series is engineered with a unique butterfly mechanism. Accordingly, the thickness of each key is only 0.5 mm, far less than Sony Vaio Z (1.04mm) and Dell XPS 13 (1.2mm).
Despite the strange feel to the user but the typing speed on the product is guaranteed to be normal – 78 words per minute. Through testing, the Touch-sized 4.4-inch 2.7-inch Force Touch works smoother and more responsive.
Screen
The 12-inch high-resolution 2304 x 1440 pixel display offers crisper, and detailed images, much like the one on the previous model (1400 x 900 pixels).
The maximum brightness of the Apple MacBook 12 inch is 327 nit – the average in the laptop line. This number is equivalent to the touch screen brightness on the XPS 13 (336 nit) and XPS 13 (318 nit), higher than the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (full HD – 292 nit and 2560 x 1440 pixels – 257 nit).
In RGB color, the screen of the device is only 107%, much lower than the Vaio Z (117%). In return, the color accuracy of the machine is quite impressive – 0.99 (as close to 0 as accurate).
where can you get a Apple MacBook 12 inch online
Apple MacBook MLH72LL/A 12-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (Space Gray, 256 GB): Buy it now
Apple MacBook MMGL2LL/A 12-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (1.1GHz Dual Core Intel m3, 8GB RAM, 256GB HD, OS X) Rose Gold: Buy it now
Apple Macbook Retina Display 12 Inch (Full-HD LED Backlit IPS Display, Intel Core M-5Y31 1.1GHz up to 2.4GHz, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, Gray) (Certified Refurbished): Buy it now
Apple MacBook MLHE2LL/A 12-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (1.1GHz Dual Core Intel m3, 8GB RAM, 256GB HD, OS X), Gold: Buy it now
Apple MacBook MJY32LL/A 12-Inch Laptop with Retina Display (Space Gray, 256 GB) OLD VERSION: Buy it now
Apple MacBook (MLH72LL/A) 256GB 12-inch Retina Display (2016) Intel Core M3 Tablet – Space Gray (Certified Refurbished): Buy it now
Efficiency
Performance is the biggest highlight of the 12-inch MacBook. Apple is equipped with a relatively “strong” hardware: a 6G Core M processor, 8GB of RAM; Fast flash storage (256 GB or 512 GB). In addition, users can use the optional Core M3 processor clocked at 1.1GHz or 1.5GHz Core M5.
In fact, the processor is a lot faster than its predecessor when it comes to opening apps and opening 10 tabs in Google Chrome. In the Geekbench 3 overall performance test, the MacBook Core M5 scored 5906 points, much higher than the MacBook last year (4631).
The new update of the MacBook is also equipped with faster flash memory PCIe. In the 5GB file transfer test, the device took only 14.3 seconds, reaching 355.9 MBps, far outperforming the XPS 13 (250 MBps), but still worse than the X1 Carbon and the Vaio Z (419 MBps).
Performance
Processor and Memory
The MacBook 12-inch is powered by Intel’s Core M processors, available in m3, m5, and m7 variants. These processors are designed for low power consumption, which is crucial for maintaining the laptop’s thin and light design. While they may not match the performance of higher-end processors found in larger laptops, they are sufficient for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback.
The laptop comes with 8GB of LPDDR3 RAM, which is soldered onto the motherboard. This means that the memory is not user-upgradable, so users need to choose the appropriate configuration at the time of purchase. The 8GB of RAM provides smooth performance for most tasks, although power users who require more memory for intensive applications might find it limiting.
Storage
Storage options for the MacBook 12-inch include 256GB and 512GB PCIe-based SSDs. The SSDs provide fast read and write speeds, contributing to the overall responsiveness of the system. Applications load quickly, and the laptop boots up in seconds, enhancing the user experience. However, like the RAM, the storage is also soldered onto the motherboard, so it cannot be upgraded post-purchase. Users should consider their storage needs carefully before deciding on the configuration.
Graphics
The MacBook 12-inch relies on Intel HD Graphics 515 (in the m3 and m5 models) or Intel HD Graphics 5300 (in the m7 model). These integrated graphics solutions are adequate for everyday tasks and light gaming but are not designed for heavy gaming or graphic-intensive applications. Users can expect smooth performance for tasks such as streaming video, casual gaming, and basic photo editing, but more demanding applications may struggle.
Connectivity and Ports
Wireless Connectivity
The MacBook 12-inch includes advanced wireless connectivity options, featuring 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0. The Wi-Fi performance is reliable and supports high-speed internet connections, ensuring a stable online experience. Bluetooth 4.0 allows for seamless pairing with wireless peripherals, such as keyboards, mice, and headphones, enhancing the overall user experience.
Ports and Expansion
One of the most controversial aspects of the MacBook 12-inch is its limited number of ports. The laptop features a single USB-C port, which serves multiple functions, including charging, data transfer, and video output. While USB-C is a versatile and future-proof standard, the lack of additional ports can be a significant drawback for users who require multiple connections simultaneously. An adapter or hub is often necessary to expand the connectivity options, which can be inconvenient.
Additionally, the MacBook 12-inch includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to users who prefer wired audio connections. However, the absence of other standard ports, such as USB-A, HDMI, and SD card slots, may limit the laptop’s versatility without the use of additional accessories.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Keyboard
The MacBook 12-inch features Apple’s butterfly keyboard mechanism, which has been a point of contention among users. The keyboard has a low-profile design with shallow key travel, which can take some time to get used to. While some users appreciate the responsiveness and reduced key wobble, others find the typing experience less comfortable compared to traditional keyboards. The keyboard is backlit, allowing for comfortable typing in low-light conditions.
Trackpad
Apple’s Force Touch trackpad is one of the standout features of the MacBook 12-inch. It uses haptic feedback to simulate the sensation of clicking, providing a uniform and responsive experience across the entire surface. The trackpad supports a wide range of multi-touch gestures, enhancing productivity and ease of use. The accuracy and responsiveness of the trackpad are exceptional, making it one of the best in its class.
Audio and Speakers
Sound Quality
The MacBook 12-inch is equipped with stereo speakers that deliver impressive sound quality for a laptop of its size. The speakers provide clear and balanced audio, with adequate volume levels for personal use. While the bass response is limited due to the laptop’s slim profile, the overall sound quality is suitable for tasks such as video conferencing, streaming music, and watching movies.
Microphone and Audio Inputs
The laptop includes dual microphones, offering decent audio capture for voice calls, video recording, and virtual assistant interactions. The built-in microphones provide clear and noise-free audio, suitable for most communication needs. The dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack supports high-quality audio output, catering to users who prefer wired headphones or external audio devices.
Battery Life
Battery Performance
The MacBook 12-inch is designed to provide all-day battery life, making it ideal for users who need a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedules. Apple claims up to 10 hours of web browsing or up to 11 hours of iTunes movie playback on a single charge. In real-world usage, the laptop generally meets or exceeds these expectations, providing reliable battery life for a full day of work or entertainment.
Charging
The laptop charges via the USB-C port, which supports fast charging. The compact power adapter is easy to carry around, further enhancing the laptop’s portability. However, the reliance on a single port for both charging and connectivity can be a limitation, especially when multiple peripherals need to be connected simultaneously.
Software and Features
macOS
The MacBook 12-inch runs macOS, Apple’s proprietary operating system. macOS is known for its intuitive user interface, robust security features, and seamless integration with other Apple devices and services. The operating system includes a wide range of built-in applications, such as Safari, Mail, Photos, and iMovie, providing users with a comprehensive suite of tools for productivity and entertainment.
Continuity and Handoff
One of the key features of macOS is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other Apple devices through Continuity and Handoff. These features allow users to start a task on one device and continue it on another, such as answering phone calls on the MacBook or transferring files between an iPhone and the laptop effortlessly. This integration enhances the overall user experience, especially for users who are already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Siri and Touch ID
The MacBook 12-inch includes Siri, Apple’s virtual assistant, which can be accessed through voice commands or the keyboard shortcut. Siri provides hands-free control over various functions, such as setting reminders, sending messages, and searching the web. While the MacBook 12-inch does not include Touch ID, the virtual assistant functionality adds to the convenience and usability of the laptop.
User Experience
Everyday Use
For everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, document editing, and media consumption, the MacBook 12-inch offers a smooth and enjoyable user experience. The lightweight and portable design make it easy to carry around, and the high-resolution display provides a crisp and clear viewing experience. The performance of the Core M processor is adequate for most day-to-day activities, although users with more demanding needs may find it limiting.
Productivity and Multitasking
The MacBook 12-inch is well-suited for productivity tasks, thanks to its portable design and responsive performance. Applications such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and Apple’s iWork suite run smoothly, allowing users to manage documents, spreadsheets, and presentations with ease. The 8GB of RAM ensures that multitasking is handled efficiently, with minimal lag when switching between applications.
However, power users who require heavy multitasking or run resource-intensive applications, such as video editing software or virtual machines, may find the MacBook 12-inch somewhat limited. The Core M processors, while efficient, do not offer the same level of performance as higher-end CPUs found in larger MacBook Pro models.
Media Consumption
The MacBook 12-inch excels in media consumption, providing a high-quality display and impressive audio output. Streaming services like Netflix, Apple TV+, and YouTube deliver excellent video quality, thanks to the Retina display’s sharp resolution and accurate color reproduction. The stereo speakers provide clear and balanced sound, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
For music lovers, the laptop’s audio performance is adequate, though not exceptional. The built-in speakers handle various genres well, but audiophiles may prefer using high-quality headphones or external speakers for a richer audio experience. The 3.5mm headphone jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio devices.
Thermal Management
Heat Dissipation
The MacBook 12-inch employs a fanless design, relying on passive cooling to manage heat. This design choice contributes to the laptop’s silent operation, making it ideal for quiet environments such as libraries, offices, and meetings. The absence of moving parts also reduces the likelihood of mechanical failure, enhancing the laptop’s durability.
Despite its passive cooling system, the MacBook 12-inch effectively manages heat during regular use. The aluminum chassis acts as a heat sink, dissipating warmth evenly across the surface. However, during extended periods of high-intensity tasks, such as video rendering or prolonged gaming, the laptop can become noticeably warm. While this does not typically impact performance, it may be uncomfortable for users who rest the device on their lap.
Conclusion
The MacBook 12-inch is a compelling choice for users who prioritize design, portability, and integration with the Apple ecosystem. Its sleek, lightweight construction, combined with a high-quality Retina display and excellent battery life, makes it an ideal laptop for users on the go. While it may not be the best option for power users who require more performance and connectivity options, it excels as an ultraportable device for everyday tasks and media consumption.
For those who value the premium Apple experience and are willing to invest in a device that offers exceptional build quality and portability, the MacBook 12-inch is a standout choice. Its blend of form and function makes it a highly desirable laptop that continues to impress, even in a competitive market filled with capable alternatives.
