MacBook 12in m7 is an Apple product that was first released in 2016, and after 4 years, it was discontinued . This MacBook is really affordable and lightweight as compared to MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. This MacBook has a light body of 2.03 lbs.
If you are a MacBook fan and looking for a good quality MacBook but you are confused about what laptop would do best for you. If you do not know which Apple MacBook would be the best for you and light on your pocket, do not worry; we got you.
In this article, we are going to dive into all the features of MacBook 12in m7 in complete detail. This complete review of this Laptop would be very helpful for you to decide if this Apple product is worth spending money on or if you should look for another option.
Quick Overview of MacBook 12in m7
The “MacBook 12in m7” likely refers to the 12-inch MacBook model released by Apple in 2016 or 2017, powered by an Intel Core m7 processor. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Key highlights:
- Ultra-portable: This was the thinnest and lightest MacBook ever made, perfect for someone always on the move.
- Gorgeous Retina Display: High-resolution display offering crisp images and text.
- Fanless Design: Cooled passively, resulting in completely silent operation.
- Decent Battery Life: Apple claimed up to 10 hours of usage.
Potential drawbacks:
- Limited Performance: The m7 processor, while efficient, wasn’t a powerhouse. It’s suitable for everyday tasks but not heavy video editing or similar intensive use.
- Single USB-C Port: This was ahead of its time, but it meant relying on dongles for many peripherals at that period.
- Shallow Keyboard: The “butterfly” keyboard was notorious for typing discomfort and reliability issues.
- Outdated: Apple discontinued this model several years ago, so it lacks support for the latest macOS versions and may have limited software compatibility.
Should You Consider It?
It depends on your needs and priorities:
- Extreme portability is paramount: If you want the lightest possible MacBook, and basic tasks are your focus, it might still be a niche option.
- Modern macOS and performance are needed: This model isn’t a good choice. Look for newer MacBooks with Apple Silicon or more powerful Intel chips.
- Collectors/Retro Enthusiasts: For the right person, this could be a piece of Apple design history.
More Information:
- Apple Specs (2017 model): https://support.apple.com/kb/sp757
- Apple Specs(2016 model): https://support.apple.com/kb/SP741
Detailed Features of MacBook 12in m7
· Operating System
MacBook uses macOS like all other Apple MacBooks. The macOS used by this specific MacBook is a 64 bits Operating System, which is macOS X 10.11.4 (15E1066). You can update this Operating system, like all other Apple products, to macOS 12 to enjoy the latest user experience.
· Display
A screen of 12 inches is equipped in this MacBook, which provides a rich display of 2304 X 1440 resolution with a density of 226 pixels per inch. The Retina Display is used for rich and vibrant colours produced by the screen.
· Processor
MacBook m7 comes with a skylake dual core processor of Intel m7, which is 1.3 GHz. This is a standard processor which would perform tasks admirably. Tasks like browsing, video editing, media playback and light gaming are easily done on this.
· FaceTime Camera
This m7 MacBook provides a good quality front-facing FaceTime camera of 480p, which can be used by users for FaceTime calls or for their online meetings.
· RAM
Typically, it uses 8GB RAM, but it can also be 16 GB RAM. It comes in both variants. User can decide which one to pick according to their requirement.
· Storage
This MacBook has the storage of 256GB or 512GB SSD.
· Graphics
It uses a well-performing Integrated Intel HD Graphics 515 to 615 with a VRAM of 1.5 GB.
· Battery Backup
Battery Backup of up to 11 hours is given by this 12in m7 MacBook.
· Colour Variants
It comes in three colour variants, which are Rose Gold, Silver and Space Grey.
· Weight and Size
It has a sleek design of 12 inches screen and a thin material body which is only 0.5 inches thick. Its weight is 2.03 lbs.
· Connectivity
It provides the facility of both Bluetooth 4.0 and Wi-Fi 802.11 ac connectivity,
· Input
It comes with an elegant backlit keyboard and a touchpad.
Comparison MacBook12 M7 with Modern MacBooks:
Here’s a comparison between the MacBook 12in m7 (2016/2017) and modern MacBook models, focusing on key areas:
Performance:
- MacBook 12in m7: Intel Core m7 is a low-power processor suitable for basic web browsing, office tasks, and light photo editing. It struggles with anything more demanding.
- New MacBooks: The latest MacBooks feature Apple’s own M-series chips (M1, M2, and variants). These are dramatically faster across the board, even the basic M1 blows past the old m7. You also find more powerful Intel options in higher-end MacBook Pros.
Display:
- MacBook 12in m7: While its Retina display was great for its time, it’s been surpassed.
- New MacBooks: Newer models (especially MacBook Pros) offer brighter displays, wider color gamuts (P3), higher resolutions, and features like ProMotion for smoother scrolling.
Design/Portability:
- MacBook 12in m7: This was its major selling point – the ultimate in thinness and lightness.
- New MacBooks: Models like the MacBook Air (M1/M2) remain very portable while offering significantly better performance. MacBook Pros have a bit more heft while offering top-tier power.
Keyboard:
- MacBook 12in m7: Featured the problematic “butterfly” keyboard, known for shallow key travel and reliability issues.
- New MacBooks: Apple has abandoned the butterfly design. Modern MacBooks use a more traditional, comfortable, and reliable keyboard.
Ports:
- MacBook 12in m7: The one USB-C port limited connectivity and required adapters.
- New MacBooks: More ports, including Thunderbolt, HDMI on some models, and the return of the MagSafe power connector on many MacBooks.
Battery Life:
- MacBook 12in m7: While decent for the time, it falls behind newer models.
- New MacBooks: Apple Silicon MacBooks dramatically improved battery life. You can expect all-day usage even on demanding tasks.
Price:
- MacBook 12in m7: Since these are only available on the used market, prices highly depend on condition.
- New MacBooks: Start with the affordable MacBook Air (M1/M2) but go higher-priced for MacBook Pro models with added power.
In Summary:
The MacBook 12in m7 was a marvel of portability in its time, but its performance, keyboard, and connectivity are far behind modern offerings. Unless you specifically need the absolute smallest possible MacBook, here are some alternatives:
- Ultra-portable Needs: MacBook Air (M1/M2) offers a great balance of portability and performance.
- Basic Needs, Best Value: M1 MacBook Air often has discounts.
- Pro-Level Power: MacBook Pro with M1 Pro/Max/Ultra, or newer Intel variants.
Read also: Acer Swift 3 SF315-41G Is It Really Worth to Buy?
Conclusion
Although the MacBook 12in m7 is an older version, it is quite an impressive computing device which still performs much better as compared to other laptops in this price range. It is one of the most versatile MacBooks with the best Retina display and good processing power.
It provides a really comfortable experience for the writers through its backlit keyboard. As its weight and size are very compact, it adds up to its portability.
We hope this detailed MacBook review article was helpful for you to figure out if it is worth spending money on or not.
