![Apple MacBook 12-inch Deal](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gFqC2devYscjgaghVPWNdM-415-80.jpg)
Apple has spring-cleaned its MacBook line-up, with new internals for the redesigned MacBook Air first introduced last year, and a timely demise for the entry-level 13-inch MacBook Pro without a Touch Bar.
Following the refresh, every Apple MacBook Pro model now ships with the Touch Bar – a small OLED touchscreen which replaces the traditional row of function keys and displays different buttons based on what app you're using, and what you're currently doing inside the app.
The latest refresh also brought about the timely demise of the MacBook – the ultra-portable 12-inch notebook was widely believed to eventually become the successor to the MacBook Air. Clearly, Apple saw it very differently.
But while it's no longer available in your local Apple Store, it's possible to buy a brand-new, boxed MacBook from a number of online and high street retailer – often for much cheaper than the RRP. Since these notebooks are no longer in production, there's a limited number of models – so it's worth adding to your basket sooner rather than later.
There are still plenty of reasons why you would still buy the 12-inch MacBook.
First of all, it's smaller and thinner than the MacBook Air. Both notebooks have a wedge-like design. But while the redesigned MacBook Air is a respectable 0.16 – 0.61-inches thick, MacBook measures 0.14 – 0.52-inches. And it's not just the thickness of the chassis, the 12-inch screen in the MacBook means it occupies a smaller footprint – useful if you're planning to work on a train or plane.
Apple used to sell a MacBook Air with an 11-inch display, but this display size was ditched with the recent design overhaul, with 13.3-inch the only screen size available.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
Likewise, if you're looking for a very lightweight machine to throw into a rucksack and use for online web browsing and word processing – the MacBook (2.03 pounds / 0.92 kg) is considerably lighter than the new MacBook Air (2.75 pounds /1.25 kg).
Of course, there are a number of reasons why you would opt for the new Apple MacBook Air over the 12-inch MacBook, including additional USB-C ports, which are used for both data transfers and charging – from a single port on the MacBook, up to two on the new MacBook Air.
MacBook Air is also more powerful than the 12-inch MacBook, which doesn't have much in the way of grunt under the bonnet at all. As such, if you're planning to edit photos, juggle between dozens of open tabs in your web browser, or play games... it's definitely worth opting for the Air. The latter also boasts a Touch ID fingerprint scanner, which makes logging into the notebook and authenticating secure apps and payments easier than typing the name of your first pet and your birth date.
As a former Staff Writer for T3, Aaron writes about almost anything shiny and techie. When he’s not barking orders at Alexa-powered microwaves or gawping at 5G speed tests, Aaron covers everything from smartphones, tablets and laptops, to speakers, TVs and smart home gadgets. Prior to joining T3, Aaron worked at the Daily Express and and MailOnline.
-
iPhone 17 slated for one massive camera upgrade which photographers will love
The question is, will it be too technical for non-photographers?
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple Vision Pro just got a load of new reasons to justify that cost
Some of the extra content coming sounds incredible
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Apple's iPad is now at a record-low price this Amazon Prime Day
If you've been waiting to pick up an Apple iPad, now might be the time to buy
By David Nield Published
-
Surprise new Apple HomePod mini arrives, and you can order it today
Apple has announced a new Apple HomePod mini
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Diver gets his Apple Watch back a year after losing it in the ocean – thanks to Find My
When technology works, it really works
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Forget Amazon Prime Day – MacBook Air now at lowest-ever price at Walmart
Apple silicon computing for less
By David Nield Published
-
iPhone 16 Pro could finally add something Android users have been enjoying for years
This is one rumour we can definitely get on board with
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
iPhone 16 "design changes" could impact Face ID on forthcoming handsets
No one's sure what it'll look like
By Max Freeman-Mills Published