When Apple unveiled the MacBook 12in m7, it appeared to be a future-proof product from the tech giant. Among all the versions of the MacBook Pro, this particular model was considered the most practical due to its slim and cutting-edge design.
The device boasted an array of features, including a 12″ backlit active-matrix Retina display with a 16:1 aspect ratio. Let’s delve deeper into the specifications and notable characteristics of the MacBook 12in m7.
About the MacBook 12in m7
Weighing only 2 pounds, the 12-inch MacBook made a mark with its incredibly slim and compact design. It was initially released by Apple at a price of $1299. With its lightweight and unique features, such as the Intel Core M7 processor, this MacBook provided users with a glimpse into the laptops of the future.
However, the MacBook faced criticism from certain observers for its performance, as its 1.3 GHz Intel Core M7 chip was unable to handle demanding workloads. It gained popularity for featuring a single USB-C port that served as both a power source and a data transfer port.
Additionally, the performance of the MacBook 12in m7 was deemed inferior to that of recent MacBooks running macOS Sierra, and its pricing was considered high.
Key Features of the MacBook 12in m7
The distinctive features and lightweight construction of this MacBook make it an excellent everyday OWS laptop. Let’s explore the popular MacBook 12in m7’s features and specifications in more detail.
Long-lasting Batteries
The MacBook’s battery life has remained unchanged, but newer CPUs have improved performance. Apple announced an additional hour of internet service, bringing the total to ten hours. In practice, the MacBook performs comparably well and charges easily with a 29-watt USB-C power supply.
Resolution and Screen Size
The MacBook’s LCD display is an active-matrix Retina display measuring 12 inches. With 226 pixels per inch, it offers precise color distinction, allowing users to distinguish between millions of colors.
Individual pixels are clearly visible at a typical viewing distance. The display supports the full native resolution on the internet and up to 3840 by 2160 pixels at 30Hz on an external monitor. It provides refresh rates of 59.94 Hz, 60 Hz, and 50 Hz, surpassing the 44 Hz standard.
Memory & Architecture
The system includes an 8GB 1666MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM, which can be upgraded to 16GB. It operates on a 64-bit architecture, offering sufficient memory for smooth workstation performance.
Storage
The MacBook features PCIe-based Flash storage with options of 256 GB or 512 GB RAM. The standard storage capacity ranges from 855 to 947 MB for hard drives. The device’s small size and low weight are notable, and although it may seem like a minor update, the faster processor significantly enhances its performance. The MacBook 12in m7 is equipped with 8 GB of 1666 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM and four Level 3 memory ports, with no customization options for flash storage.
CPU and GPU
The MacBook runs on MacOS X 10.1.3 (15E 2066) and is powered by a dual-core Intel Core m7 CPU with a base speed of 1.3 GHz and a turbo boost up to 3.0 GHz. It also features the Intel HD Graphics 515 GPU, replacing the HD Graphics 5300, offering enhanced gameplay and high-resolution graphics with its IPS technology.
Operating System
MacBooks operate on the macOS operating system. The 12-inch MacBook M7’s OS enables users to perform tasks that may not be possible on other computers or laptops. The OS is finely tuned to the hardware, resulting in seamless integration. Mac OS X comes with a wide range of exquisitely designed apps that keep your images, documents, and files updated across all your devices through iCloud. The design process also prioritized privacy and security.
Keyboard Specifications
Despite the number pad being challenging for some users, the MacBook’s keyboard is large enough for comfortable typing. It is well-suited for writing, image editing, and gaming, despite its smaller size. The integrated laptop takes up more space but proves helpful, particularly for gaming enthusiasts. The full-size keyboard features backlit keys, fine cursor control, and pressure-sensing capabilities.
Upgrades
The MacBook 12in m7 initially came with 8 GB of 1600 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM, which could later be upgraded to 8 GB of 1866 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM as onboard RAM. The 8GB of RAM can be expanded to 16GB for improved performance.
Additional Features of the MacBook 12in m7:
The MacBook 12in m7 also offers the following highly useful features:
- It includes a 480p webcam.
- It supports multiple touch gestures.
- By using VGA or HDMI adapters, the laptop can be connected to multiple displays.
- It has good battery life, with approximately 11-12% battery consumption per hour and the ability to play iTunes movies for 11 hours while using wireless internet for 10 hours.
- The force touch trackpad allows for pressure-sensitive clicks and unlocks new features. It features 12 function keys, 4 arrow keys, and separate LED backlighting.
- External audio devices, including microphones and wired or Bluetooth Apple iPhone headsets, can be connected via cable or Bluetooth. It is equipped with a 3.5 mm headphone jack and two microphones.
Pros and Cons of the MacBook 12in m7:
Pros:
- Full-size keyboard with individually backlit keys.
- Excellent software support.
- TFT-led backlit active display with scaled resolutions.
- Good battery life despite the 12″ display and reliable standby time.
- Several valuable built-in applications.
- Stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Bluetooth 4.0 standard AirPort is backward compatible with other Bluetooth devices.
Cons:
- High price.
- Notably delicate assembly quality, prone to vulnerability.
- Limited to a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Processor and storage speed are not particularly impressive.
- Apart from the USB-C port, no other ports are available.
Conclusion:
Apple’s products, such as the MacBook, iPhone, and Apple Headset, continue to be highly sought-after even years after their introduction. The MacBook 12in m7 stands out for its innovative and robust design. While newer MacBook models, like the MacBook Air with macOS Sierra, offer improved functionality and capabilities, the MacBook 2016 remains a practical computer for work. It’s worth noting that MacBooks are not primarily designed for gaming due to their limited graphics processing capabilities, but they can still run high-resolution games.
