Apple redefined how good a budget laptop could be with its $599 MacBook Neo, an ultra-light 13-inch laptop powered by an iPhone processor. It’s attracted plenty of attention since its release last month—largely for its budget-friendly price. After about a week of hands on use, I’ve been impressed by its solid build quality, comfortable keyboard, and vibrant screen. It feels like an excellent fit for students, office work, and everyday use at home or on the go—and it’s hard to argue with the value.
The Neo’s portability also makes it appealing to photographers working on location—whether shooting destination weddings or traveling for landscape and wildlife photography—as well as videographers who need to keep content flowing while away from their main setup. But how well does it actually perform for creative work? I put the Neo through its paces with some of the most popular creative apps to find out where it shines—and where it struggles.