A Cheaper MacBook Is Coming to Challenge Chromebooks and Windows Laptops

Apple has long been rumored to be working on an affordable MacBook that could challenge Chromebooks and budget Windows laptops. A new report from Bloomberg suggests that Apple may launch this lower-cost MacBook in the first half of 2026. That timeliness suggests it could arrive around or before June of that year.

Apple’s MacBook with the A18 Pro chip could arrive around June 2026

The new MacBook will use Apple’s A18 Pro chip that powers the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This would mark the first time Apple aims to target the affordable laptop segment. That’s typically dominated by Chromebooks and low-end Windows devices.

Apple transitioned from Intel chips to its in-house M-series processors in 2020, starting with the MacBook Air M1 and MacBook Pro M1. Five years later, the M5-powered MacBook Pro is already available, with an Air version expected next year. This could be the first instance where Apple feels confident enough to equip a laptop with an iPhone-class chip.

According to Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, the budget MacBook will feature a “lower-end LCD display” and a screen smaller than 13.6 inches. The report suggests it will be priced below $1,000. While that’s technically correct, but it does not reveal much about the finer details. For comparison, Apple’s current entry-level MacBook Air (M4) retails for $999. However, discounts on Amazon can bring it down to around $799.

Apple might target those who’d otherwise buy the iPad Magic Keyboard combo

Later in the report, Gurman notes that entry-level iPad paired with the Magic Keyboard costs around $600. And, the upcoming MacBook with the A18 Pro chip could be priced in a similar range. Given that Apple sells the M4 Mac mini for about $599, we may expect the MacBook A18 Pro to start around $699, with a possible student discount bringing it down to approximately $599. That would put it in line with Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook Plus.

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously reported that the MacBook with the A18 Pro chip will be available in silver, blue, pink, and yellow. Gurman also mentions that the laptop will be designed for students, businesses, and casual users, adding that Apple intends to target potential iPad buyers with this model.