MacBook 12in M7 Review (2024) – Still Worth It?
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In the ever-evolving world of tech, some gadgets stand the test of time, while others fade into obscurity.
Today, we're revisiting a classic that once turned heads with its sleek design and portability – the MacBook 12in M7.
Is this iconic laptop still worth your hard-earned cash in 2024?
Whether you're a digital nomad in search of a great portable workstation or a casual user wondering if this older model still packs a punch, you're in the right place.
By the end of this comprehensive review, you'll have all the insights you need to make an informed decision. So, let's get started!
1. Hardware
Design & Build Quality
Alright, let's dive into one of the most crucial aspects of any laptop – the design and build quality.
When you first lay eyes on the MacBook 12in M7, you'll notice its sleek and still somewhat modern aesthetic.
I think that even nowadays it gives off this cool, premium vibe and retains its charm as a sophisticated laptop.
When it comes to the bezels around the display, you'll notice that they are bigger and more noticeable compared to today's sleek designs.
Even though they're not winning any beauty contests, these bezels don't really take away from how well the display works and what it can do.
The MacBook 12in M7 comes in Rose Gold, Space Gray, Gold, and Silver.
Material
Crafted from a premium aluminum body, the MacBook 12in M7 exudes a sense of luxury and durability.
The aluminum chassis is luckily not just for show – it's rigid and scratch-resistent, providing a sturdy frame that can withstand most of the rigors of daily use.
The material choice aligns with Apple's usual commitment to both form and function, ensuring that the laptop is as robust and light as it is beautiful.
Portability
One of the standout features of this MacBook is its portability. The aluminum body is surprisingly light, weighing only 2.03 pounds (0.92 kg), making it easy to carry around whether you're moving from meeting to meeting or lounging at a café.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Now, let's talk about the keyboard and trackpad, which are often the make-or-break factors for many users when it comes to laptops.
Personally, I think they're more important than some people realize. I mean, except for external keyboards and mice – which sort of defeat the purpose of a laptop – they're your main way to interact with it.
So, how good are they on the MacBook 12in M7?
Keyboard
The keyboard on the MacBook 12in M7 comes with Apple's butterfly switches, a feature that has garnered mixed reviews over the years.
While the keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced keys that provide good tactile feedback, the butterfly switches have been a point of contention.
Many users – myself included – have criticized them for their shallow key travel and less-than-ideal reliability.
If you're particular about the feel of your keys, this is something to consider seriously.
Trackpad
The trackpad, on the other hand, is still best-in-class, in my opinion. It's made out of glass, responsive, supports multi-touch gestures, and offers a smooth gliding experience.
Apple's Force Touch technology is also integrated, allowing for pressure-sensitive commands that can significantly enhance your workflow.
So, while the trackpad continues to impress, the keyboard's butterfly switches might be a sticking point for some.
However, you might be totally fine with it.
I highly recommend giving those butterfly switches a test run before making a purchase!
See if you can try out an older Apple MacBook with butterfly switches at a store or maybe borrow one from friends, family, or coworkers.
So, is the MacBook 12in M7 still worth it in 2024? Well, if you ask me, based on the design and build quality alone – even with the butterfly switches – it's a resounding yes.
Mainly because of the cost and value – I'll explain more about this in a bit.
Display
Continuing from the design and build quality, let's shift our focus to another pivotal aspect of the MacBook 12in M7 – the display.
In today's world where screen time is ever-increasing, having a high-quality display in your laptop is a significant aspect.
Quality
The MacBook 12in M7 comes equipped with a 12-inch (16:10) Retina display with IPS technology that boasts a resolution of 2304 x 1440 pixels (226 ppi).
This high-resolution screen is a visual treat, offering crystal-clear graphics that make everything from text to images pop – even by today's standards.
Whether you're streaming your favorite shows or working on a graphic design project, the display delivers a level of clarity that's still hard to match.
Compared to those modern laptops with Mini-LED or OLED screens, this one doesn't quite nail the contrast.
Especially noticeable with dark backgrounds – they end up looking kinda grey instead of that deep black you get with OLEDs or the almost-black of Mini-LEDs.
Still, it gets the job done for everyday use and even most pro tasks, in my opinion.
Brightness
With a decent average of 350 nits of brightness, the display is bright enough to be used in various lighting conditions, from dimly lit rooms to moderate outdoor settings.
While it is clearly not the brightest screen on the market, it offers a balanced level of luminance that complements its high-resolution nature.
But, it's important to note that this level of brightness isn't great in direct sunlight. The glare affects visibility, making it hard to see clearly.
Also, the lack of HDR (High Dynamic Range) means that while the display offers a decent range of colors and contrast, it misses out on that extra visual pop and richness you get with HDR content.
Color Accuracy
Now, let's talk about color accuracy, which is often a deal-breaker for creative professionals.
As mentioned earlier, the MacBook 12in M7's Retina display is rocking an IPS panel, and while that means you're getting some vibrant, accurate colors, it's not quite on the same level as what you'd see with a mini-LED or OLED display.
Those bad boys take it up a notch with deeper contrasts and a broader color palette, making everything pop with even more precision.
But don't get it twisted – for your daily tasks and even for the pros out there, this IPS display isn't playing around.
It delivers on color accuracy in a big way, making it a solid choice for pretty much anything you throw at it.
This is particularly beneficial for those involved in photo or video editing, where color fidelity is crucial.
In short, the MacBook 12-inch M7's display is holding up quite well. It combines high resolution, decent brightness, and great color accuracy to offer a viewing experience that's both enjoyable and functional.
So, if you're someone who values a top-notch display, the MacBook 12in M7 still has got you covered.
Performance
After discussing the display, it's time to get into the nuts and bolts of the MacBook 12in M7 – its performance.
This is where the rubber meets the road, especially for power users who need more than just a pretty display.
Processor: Intel Core m7
The MacBook 12in M7 is powered by an Intel Core m7 processor (M7-6Y75) with a base clock speed of 1.2 GHz and a dual-core architecture.
On paper, the 1.2 GHz base frequency might raise some eyebrows, especially when compared to the higher clock speeds boasted by more recent processors.
Even though the Intel Core m7 may not seem like much on paper, it's got some tricks up its sleeve. It can turbo up to 3.1 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0.
This means it can handle workload spikes better, giving you a smoother ride when you're deep into video editing or juggling multiple apps at once.
However, let's look at the M7-6Y75 in the bigger picture of how processors have evolved and the current standards.
By 2024, there have been major advancements in computing, like CPUs with many more cores, higher base frequencies, and better architectures boosting efficiency and performance.
In this context, the Intel M7-6Y75's dual-core setup and base frequency are not up to par for heavy computing needs or cutting-edge applications that rely on multi-threading and high-speed processing.
It's good enough for daily tasks and light video/photo editing now and then. But for pros, I wouldn't suggest it.
Even if you can snag one at a decent price, it's not the best investment, especially when you compare it to the newer Apple Silicon MacBooks, like the MacBook Air M3.
With those newer models, you are far better off when it comes to future-proofing.
RAM
In dissecting the RAM capabilities of the MacBook 12in M7, it's crucial to lay out the facts as plainly as possible.
This machine comes equipped with up to 16 GB of RAM. For your average day-to-day tasks – think juggling browser tabs, tweaking presentations, or hopping onto video calls – it handles itself just fine.
There's enough under the hood to keep things running smoothly without noticeable hiccups.
However, it's important to temper expectations. While 16 GB of RAM might sound ample, in the grand scheme, it's pretty standard.
It's sufficient for everyday use but doesn't push the envelope when it comes to future-proofing.
And here's a kicker that might be a deal-breaker for some: this RAM is soldered directly onto the motherboard. What does this mean for you? No room for upgrades. Whatever configuration you buy, that's what you're stuck with for the life of the laptop.
Personally, I'm not a fan of this trend we're seeing from Apple. Locking down hardware upgrades limits the device's longevity and versatility, especially in an era where tech evolves at lightning speed.
For the power users out there, those who need their machines to run heavy-duty software or multitask like a pro, this setup might feel restrictive.
In essence, while the MacBook 12in M7 does offer decent performance for the everyday user, its non-upgradable RAM and the ceiling of 16 GB places it in a category that might not satisfy those looking for a beast of a workstation.
Storage Options
When we're talking about the storage capabilities of the MacBook 12in M7, things get a bit more grounded.
The SSD speeds here are decent, clocking in between 845 and 947 megabytes per second for read and write operations, respectively.
In real-world terms, this translates to pretty snappy file transfers and applications that are ready to go almost as soon as you click on them.
You're looking at options of 256 or 512 GB for storage, which, frankly, gives you some room to work with but might not cut it for everyone.
Here's the thing – while these speeds and options seem adequate for general use, they don't exactly scream "future-proof."
Especially for power users, folks who are editing video, dealing with large datasets, or running heavy software, these storage caps can be a limiting factor.
And, much like the RAM situation, Apple's design choices mean you're not able to upgrade the internal storage down the line.
What's the work-around? Well, external SSDs can bridge the gap to an extent. They're a viable option if you find yourself bumping up against the internal storage limit, though it's not as seamless as having everything onboard.
Cooling System
The MacBook 12in M7 employs a cooling system that's designed to balance performance with thermals.
While it may not have the cooling power of a gaming laptop or a desktop PC, it's engineered to maintain optimal temperature levels during operation.
This is crucial because an overheated laptop can lead to throttling, where the system reduces performance to cool down.
Thankfully, the MacBook 12in M7 avoids this pitfall by featuring efficient cooling mechanisms that help it operate quietly (no fan) without compromising on performance – at least for the most part.
While this fanless design does its job under typical usage scenarios, pushing the laptop with more demanding tasks paints a different picture.
Whether it’s heavy photo editing, video rendering, or even too many tabs open in your browser, the M7 can start to feel the heat, quite literally.
This isn't to say the performance takes a nosedive, but you'll notice the machine getting uncomfortably warm, which isn't ideal.
It's a trade-off. On one hand, the quiet operation for everyday tasks is genuinely appreciated. On the other, when you really need to push the envelope, that sleek, fanless design means the device can end up running hotter than you might like.
It's not a deal-breaker for everyone, but it's definitely something to consider if your typical workload leans on the heavier side.
2. Software
Transitioning from the hardware aspects, let's delve into the software side of things, specifically focusing on the operating system and macOS features.
Software is the soul of any computer, and Apple's macOS is often cited as one of the most user-friendly and secure operating systems out there.
Operating System
The MacBook 12in M7 comes pre-installed with macOS, and the good news is that it's upgradable to macOS 12 Monterey.
This means you're not just stuck with the features it ships with; you can upgrade to enjoy a more recent OS.
The operating system is incredibly stable, offering a seamless user experience that complements the powerful hardware components.
Whether you're a first-time macOS user or a seasoned Apple veteran, you'll find the operating system intuitive and easy to navigate.
macOS Features and Updates
One of the standout features of macOS 12 Monterey that you can enjoy on the MacBook 12in M7 is Universal Control.
This feature allows you to control multiple Apple devices with a single mouse and keyboard, enhancing your multitasking capabilities.
Additionally, the operating system offers robust security features, including Gatekeeper, which checks for the security of the apps you install, and FileVault 2, which encrypts your entire disk to protect your data.
But it's not just about the big features – it's also about the little things that enhance your daily workflow. From the convenience of AirDrop for quick file transfers to the efficiency of Mission Control for managing your workspace, macOS is packed with features designed to make your life easier.
Essentially, the MacBook 12in M7 offers a robust software experience that goes hand in hand with its decent, albeit slightly outdated, hardware, and Apple’s ecosystem.
Whether you're using it for work, play, or anything in between, the software experience is designed to be as smooth as possible.
So, if you're wondering whether the MacBook 12in M7 is still worth it in 2024, the software alone gives you a compelling reason to consider it.
Pre-installed Software
One of the advantages of owning a MacBook is that you don't have to deal with bloatware, those unnecessary applications that often come pre-installed on other laptops.
The MacBook 12in M7 comes with macOS X 10.11.4 pre-installed, which includes essential software like Safari, Mail, and Messages.
These applications are optimized for the macOS environment, ensuring a seamless user experience right out of the box.
You won't find any third-party apps taking up space or slowing down your system, which is a huge plus.
User Experience
The user experience on the MacBook 12in M7 is designed to be as fluid and intuitive as possible.
The operating system and pre-installed apps work in harmony with the hardware to provide a smooth computing experience.
Whether you're browsing the web, checking emails, or working on a project, the laptop's software ecosystem is optimized for efficiency and ease of use.
Multitasking
When it comes to multitasking, the MacBook 12in M7 is more than capable. The combination of a quite powerful Intel Core m7 processor and optimized macOS allows you to run multiple applications simultaneously without any hiccups.
You can easily switch between tasks using Mission Control or by utilizing multi-touch gestures on the trackpad.
This makes it an excellent choice for professionals who need to juggle various tasks throughout the day.
Everyday Use
For everyday use, the MacBook 12in M7 offers a balanced and reliable computing experience.
Whether you're a student taking notes in class, a business professional working on a presentation, or a creative individual editing photos, this laptop has got you covered.
Its software is designed to enhance productivity, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks.
In the end, the MacBook 12in M7 is pretty decent in both pre-installed software and user experience. It offers a bloatware-free environment and comes with essential apps that are optimized for the macOS ecosystem.
So, if you're looking for a laptop that offers a seamless software experience, the MacBook 12in M7 is definitely worth considering.
3. Battery Life
Shifting gears from software to another critical aspect of any laptop – the battery life.
A laptop can have all the high-end specs in the world, but if the battery doesn't hold up, it's not going to be very useful for those on the move.
So, let's break down the battery performance of the MacBook 12in M7.
Battery Capacity
The MacBook 12in M7 comes with a built-in 41.4-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery.
While this may not sound like a lot compared to some of the larger laptops out there, it's quite impressive for a device of this size.
However, when it comes to battery life, it is worth mentioning that the MacBook 12in M7 does not even come close to Apple's own M-Series of chips.
Real-world Usage
When it comes down to how the MacBook 12in M7 actually performs in your day-to-day, Apple’s claims of up to 10 hours for web browsing and up to 12 hours for movie playback aren't too far off.
That's decent longevity, considering you've got a sharp Retina display and the Intel Core m7 processor working overtime under the hood.
If your day involves a mix of drafting documents, catching up on your favorite shows, or endless scrolling through web pages, this laptop's battery should keep pace without leaving you stranded mid-task.
However, before you go all-in on the M7, there's a piece of advice worth considering. The MacBook Air M1 might actually be a smarter buy.
Not only is it relatively more affordable, but it also offers a significant performance leap, thanks to Apple's own silicon. Plus, its battery life is nothing to scoff at, either.
And here's another angle you can't ignore – battery health. If you're eyeing a used MacBook 12in M7, remember that its battery might not be as resilient as it once was.
Batteries age and lose their capacity over time, so what once lasted for 12 hours might now fall short, impacting not just your mobile viewing pleasure but your overall productivity and mobility as well.
Standby Time
When it comes to standby time, the MacBook 12in M7 mostly doesn't disappoint.
It offers up to 30 days of standby time, which is incredibly convenient for those who may not use their laptop every day but still want it ready to go at a moment's notice.
Charging Speed
Now, what about when you do need to charge it up? The MacBook 12in M7 supports fast charging and takes around 2 hours to reach a full charge using its 30W USB-C power adapter.
This is pretty quick, especially when you consider the long-lasting battery life. So, even if you do find yourself running low on juice, you won't have to wait long to get back in action.
In short, the MacBook 12in M7 offers a solid battery performance that complements its quite robust specs.
If battery life is a key consideration for you, the MacBook 12in M7 is still worth your attention.
4. Pros and Cons
As we wrap up this comprehensive review of the MacBook 12in M7, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons.
This will give you a balanced perspective on whether this laptop is the right fit for your needs. So, let's get into it.
Pros
Portability: One of the standout features of the MacBook 12in M7 is its ultra-portable design. Weighing just 2.03 pounds (0.92 kg), it's easy to carry around, making it ideal for travelers and professionals on the go.
Display Quality: The Retina display still offers stunning visuals with accurate colors and sharp details. It's a treat for both content creators and consumers but does fall short in comparison to Mini-LED or OLED technologies.
Battery Life: As mentioned earlier, the battery life is decent, offering up to 12 hours of iTunes movie playback or 10 hours of wireless web browsing. However, it might be old and have to be replaced.
Performance: The Intel Core m7 processor, coupled with average RAM, ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance for most daily tasks (students, office work etc.).
macOS Ecosystem: The pre-installed macOS offers a seamless and secure user experience, with features like Universal Control and Gatekeeper adding to its appeal.
No Bloatware: Unlike many other laptops, the MacBook 12in M7 comes free of unnecessary pre-installed software, offering a clean and efficient user experience.
Cons
Price: The MacBook 12in M7 used to come with a premium price tag, which might be a deal-breaker for some. It's worth noting that this model is not officially available on Apple's store anymore since July 9, 2019. However, you can still find good deals on used products, making it a potentially cost-effective option.
Limited Upgradability: What you see is what you get. The MacBook 12in M7 doesn't offer any options for hardware upgrades, locking you into the specs you initially purchase.
Keyboard: The keyboard features butterfly switches, which have been a point of contention for many users. Some find the shallow key travel and the feel of the switches less than ideal, making it a divisive aspect of this laptop.
Single USB-C Port: The laptop comes with just one USB-C port, which can be limiting if you need to connect multiple peripherals.
Not for Heavy-Duty Tasks: While the Intel Core m7 processor is capable, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty tasks like 3D rendering or high-end gaming.
Outdated Tech in 2024: Although the MacBook 12in M7 was a powerhouse in its time, the technology isn't as cutting-edge as it once was. However, it's still more than capable for general office tasks and web browsing, making it a viable option for those who don't require the latest and greatest in laptop technology.
In summary, the MacBook 12in M7 has a lot going for it, from its stunning display and decent battery life to its efficient performance and clean software experience.
However, it's essential to consider the cons, such as the keyboard and limited upgradability, before making a decision.
Overall, if you're looking for a portable, efficient, and visually stunning laptop, the MacBook 12in M7 is definitely worth considering.
But if you need a workhorse for heavy-duty tasks or require multiple ports, you might want to look elsewhere.
5. Real-world Testing
Now that we've covered the specs and features, let's dive into the real-world testing of the MacBook 12in M7.
After all, specs on paper are one thing, but how does this laptop perform in everyday scenarios and specialized tasks? Let's find out.
Daily Usage
Web Browsing, Writing, etc.
In daily usage scenarios like web browsing, writing, and streaming, the MacBook 12in M7 holds its own quite well.
The Intel Core m7 processor ensures that you can have multiple tabs open in your browser without experiencing any lag.
Writing on this laptop is a breeze, thanks to the sharp Retina display that makes text crisp and easy to read.
While the butterfly keyboard might take some getting used to, once you're accustomed to it, typing is relatively comfortable.
The trackpad is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, making navigation effortless.
The battery life is also commendable, offering up to 10 hours of wireless web browsing, ensuring you can get through a full workday without needing to reach for the charger.
Specialized Tasks
Video Editing, Gaming, etc.
When it comes to specialized tasks like video editing or gaming, the MacBook 12in M7 shows its limitations.
While the Intel Core m7 processor is capable, it's not designed for heavy-duty tasks. You can perform basic video editing, but don't expect it to handle 4K footage with multiple layers and effects smoothly.
As for gaming, this laptop is not built for that. You can run older titles or less demanding games, but anything graphically intensive will push this machine to its limits.
Ultimately, the MacBook 12in M7 is a solid choice for everyday tasks like web browsing, writing, and streaming.
However, if you're looking to use it for specialized tasks like video editing or gaming, you might want to consider other options like the MacBook Air M1.
The laptop excels in portability and battery life, making it a great option for those who are always on the move.
But if you need a machine for more demanding tasks, it's worth exploring other alternatives.
6. Comparisons
Vs. Other MacBooks
Now that we've dissected the MacBook 12in M7 in various aspects, it's time to see how it stacks up against other MacBooks in Apple's lineup.
This comparison will help you understand where this laptop stands in the grand scheme of things, especially if you're considering other options within the MacBook family.
How it Stacks Up Against Other Models
Portability: When it comes to portability, the MacBook 12in M7 is a champion. Weighing just over 2 pounds, it's lighter than the MacBook Air and significantly lighter than the MacBook Pro models. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability.
Example: The MacBook Air (M1, 2020) still remains a close competitor in terms of portability, weighing just 2.8 pounds. However, the quite new 14-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023) is also relatively lightweight but offers significantly more power.Performance: While the Intel Core m7 processor in the MacBook 12in offers decent performance for everyday tasks, it falls short when compared to the M2 chip in the latest MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. The M2 chip offers better performance and efficiency, making it a better choice for more demanding tasks.
Example: The 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros (M2 Pro and M2 Max, 2023) are powerhouses, offering significantly better performance and efficiency for more demanding tasks.Display: The Retina display on the MacBook 12in M7 is stunning but not quite as bright or color-accurate as the Mini-LED displays on the newer MacBook Pro models, which offer almost OLED-like blacks.
Example: The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Max, 2023) offers a Liquid Retina XDR (Mini-LED) display, which is brighter and more color-accurate than the MacBook 12in M7's Retina display. It also features True Tone technology for a more natural viewing experience.Battery Life: While the MacBook 12in M7 offers impressive battery life, the M2-powered MacBooks have taken it a step further, offering up to 20 hours of battery life, almost doubling what the 12in M7 can provide.
Example: The 14-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023) offers up to 20 hours of battery life, almost doubling the longevity of the MacBook 12in M7.Price: The MacBook 12in M7 is no longer officially sold by Apple, but you can still find it in the used market. This could make it a more budget-friendly option compared to the newer models, but keep in mind that you're trading off some performance and features.
Example: The 14-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023) starts at a $2,000 price point, making it a more premium option compared to the MacBook 12in M7 available in the used market.Upgradability: None of the MacBooks offer much in the way of upgradability, but the newer models do come with more built-in storage and RAM options, giving you more flexibility at the time of purchase.
Example: The 16-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Max, 2023) offers more built-in storage and RAM options, giving you more flexibility at the time of purchase, although none of the MacBooks are upgradable post-purchase.Keyboard: The MacBook 12in M7 comes with a butterfly keyboard, which has been largely criticized for its shallow key travel. Newer MacBook models have reverted to a scissor mechanism, which offers a better typing experience.
Example: The 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros (M2 Pro and M2 Max, 2023) have moved away from the controversial butterfly mechanism, reverting to a scissor mechanism that offers a better typing experience.
At the end of the day, the MacBook 12in M7 holds its own in terms of portability and basic performance but falls short when compared to the newer MacBook models, especially those with the M2 chip.
If you're looking for a laptop for basic tasks and prioritize portability, the 12in M7 is a solid choice.
However, if you need more power, a better display, or longer battery life, you might want to consider the latest MacBook Air or MacBook Pro models.
Vs. Windows Laptops
Alright, let's pivot a bit and talk about how the MacBook 12in M7 compares to similarly priced Windows laptops.
This is an important consideration, especially if you're not tied to the macOS ecosystem and are open to exploring other options.
A Comparison with Similarly Priced Windows Laptops
Performance: In the same price range, you can find Windows laptops equipped with more powerful processors, such as the AMD Ryzen series or Intel's i7 chips. These processors are generally more capable than the Intel Core m7 in the MacBook 12in M7, especially for tasks like video editing or gaming.
Example: The Dell XPS 13 is a strong contender when it comes to performance. Equipped with Intel's latest i7 processors, it's more than capable of handling tasks like video editing and even some light gaming.Upgradability: One of the major advantages of Windows laptops is the ability to upgrade components like RAM and storage. This is something you can't do with the MacBook 12in M7, which locks you into the specs you initially purchase.
Example: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023) is a standout in this category. It allows for upgrades in RAM and storage, giving you the flexibility to enhance your machine as your needs evolve.Display: While the Retina display on the MacBook is impressive, some Windows laptops in the same price range offer OLED displays or higher refresh rates, providing a potentially better visual experience.
Example: The HP Envy 16 (2023) offers an OLED display, providing a potentially better visual experience with vibrant colors and deep blacks.Ports and Connectivity: Windows laptops usually offer a wider range of ports, including HDMI, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, and sometimes even an Ethernet port. The MacBook 12in M7, on the other hand, comes with just a single USB-C port.
Example: The Acer Swift Go 14 comes with a variety of ports, including HDMI, multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, and even an Ethernet port, offering a more versatile connectivity solution.Software Compatibility: Windows laptops offer broader software compatibility, especially for specialized software in fields like engineering, architecture, and gaming. macOS has come a long way in this regard, but Windows still has the edge.
Example: The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a solid choice for those who need a wide range of software compatibility, especially in specialized fields like engineering or architecture.Gaming: If gaming is a priority, a Windows laptop is almost certainly a better choice. The gaming ecosystem on Windows is far more extensive, and the hardware is generally better suited for it.
Example: The Asus Zenbook 14 (2023) is a great option for casual gamers, offering decent performance and a high-refresh-rate display for a smooth gaming experience.Battery Life: While the MacBook 12in M7 offers good battery life, some Windows laptops equipped with the latest processors can match or even exceed this, especially those with larger batteries or more efficient cooling systems.
Example: The LG Gram 17 is a battery life champion, capable of matching or even exceeding the MacBook 12in M7's battery longevity.Keyboard and Trackpad: While Windows laptops offer a variety of keyboard types, most have moved away from the controversial butterfly mechanism found in the MacBook 12in M7. If you're particular about keyboard feel, you'll find more options in the Windows world.
Example: The Razer Blade Stealth 13 offers a mechanical keyboard, providing a more tactile and satisfying typing experience compared to the MacBook 12in M7's butterfly mechanism.Price and Availability: Since the MacBook 12in M7 is no longer sold by Apple, you'll have to look in the used market. Windows laptops, on the other hand, offer a wide range of new models in the same price range, giving you more options to choose from.
Example: The Lenovo Slim Pro 7 Gen 8 (2023) offers a good balance of performance and features, and being a new model, it's readily available in the market.
In conclusion, while the MacBook 12in M7 excels in portability and offers a solid macOS experience, similarly priced Windows laptops often provide better performance, upgradability, and software compatibility.
If you're not committed to the Apple ecosystem, it's worth considering these alternatives.
Final Thoughts
So, we've taken a deep dive into the MacBook 12in M7, examining everything from its design and display to its performance and software.
It's clear that this laptop has its merits, especially when it comes to portability and the macOS experience.
However, it does have some limitations, such as its single USB-C port, bad keyboard, non-upgradable hardware, and a processor that's not quite up to par for heavy-duty tasks.
Final Verdict: Is it Still Worth Buying in 2024?
The MacBook 12in M7 is a bit of a mixed bag in 2024.
On one hand, its ultra-portable design and impressive Retina display make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize these features.
On the other hand, its Intel Core m7 processor is starting to show its age, especially when compared to the M1, M2 and M3 chips in the newer MacBooks.
While it's no longer available for purchase from Apple, you can still find it on the used market, often at a more budget-friendly price.
But remember, you're trading off some performance and features for that lower cost.
Recommendations: For Whom is This Laptop Best Suited?
If you're a casual user or student who primarily needs a laptop for web browsing, office tasks, and media consumption, the MacBook 12in M7 could be a good fit.
Its portability makes it ideal for travelers and professionals who are always on the move.
However, if you're into heavy video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming, this is not the laptop for you.
You'd be better off considering the newer MacBook models or similarly priced Windows laptops that offer more power and upgradability.
So, what's the bottom line? If you're in the market for a portable MacBook and are willing to compromise on some features, the 12in M7 could still be a viable option.
But if you're looking for a more robust package, it is worth expanding your budget and considering the newer M-chip models.
Either way, make sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully to find the laptop that best suits your needs.
That wraps up this comprehensive review of the MacBook 12in M7. If you found this information helpful, feel free to drop your questions and thoughts in the comments section below.
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FAQ
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The MacBook 12in M7 was discontinued by Apple on July 9, 2019.
However, you can still find it on the used market, often at a more budget-friendly price compared to the newer models.
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For casual users who primarily need a laptop for web browsing, office tasks, and media consumption, the MacBook 12in M7 offers decent performance.
Its Intel Core m7 processor is capable of handling these tasks smoothly.
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The laptop comes with a Retina display that offers stunning visuals, accurate colors, and sharp details.
However, it's not as bright or color-accurate as the displays on the newer MacBook Pro models.
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No, the MacBook 12in M7 does not offer any upgradability options.
You're locked into the specs you initially purchase, so choose wisely.
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While the MacBook 12in M7 offers impressive battery life, the M1-powered MacBooks have taken it a step further, offering up to 20 hours of battery life, almost doubling what the 12in M7 can provide.
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If you're considering other options within the MacBook family, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models with M1 or M2 chips offer better performance and efficiency.
Similarly priced Windows laptops often provide better performance, upgradability, and software compatibility.
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The MacBook 12in M7 comes with just a single USB-C port, which can be limiting if you need to connect multiple peripherals.
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The MacBook 12in M7 comes with a butterfly keyboard, which has been largely criticized for its shallow key travel.
If you're particular about keyboard feel, you might find it less comfortable for long-term use.
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The MacBook 12in M7 is best suited for casual users and professionals who prioritize portability and are willing to compromise on some features for a more budget-friendly option.
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In real-world testing, the MacBook 12in M7 performs well for daily usage like web browsing and writing but falls short for specialized tasks like video editing and gaming.
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