MacBook SE – Is a $700 MacBook SE Still Possible in 2025?

For years, rumors have swirled about Apple working on a budget-friendly MacBook SE, potentially priced under $700. Such a product could offer an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem, competing with budget Windows laptops and Chromebooks. But in 2025, is this still a possibility? With Apple’s current MacBook lineup and pricing strategies, let’s examine whether a MacBook SE could ever become a reality. This information is also featured on 9to9trends YouTube, so don’t forget to check it out.

The Current MacBook Lineup

Apple’s MacBook lineup has seen significant upgrades, with the latest models offering powerful performance and premium designs. The high-end MacBook Pro models come in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, equipped with M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chips. These are designed for professionals who need high computing power for creative work, coding, and high-performance tasks. For those looking for a more lightweight and portable option, the MacBook Air remains a top choice.

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The latest MacBook Air models are available in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, powered by the M3 chip. Configurations now include up to 16GB of RAM, providing ample power for most general users. The most affordable option directly from Apple is the M2 MacBook Air, starting at $999. However, education discounts bring the price down to $899, and sales from third-party retailers have seen the base model drop to around $800. Given these price trends, why hasn’t Apple introduced a true-budget MacBook? A MacBook SE with slightly lower specs could fill a crucial gap for students, casual users, and those looking for a more affordable way into macOS.

What Could a MacBook SE Look Like?

A potential MacBook SE would need to balance affordability with usability, offering decent performance without cannibalizing Apple’s existing MacBook Air sales. A few key possibilities exist for how Apple could design a lower-cost MacBook:

1. A Revived 12-inch MacBook

One possibility for a MacBook SE would be a refreshed version of Apple’s 12-inch MacBook, originally released in 2015. This model featured a minimalist, fanless design but struggled with overheating and the infamous butterfly keyboard. If Apple were to bring back this model with an M2 or M3 chip, an improved Magic Keyboard, and better thermal management, it could be a solid budget option. A smaller display would also reduce manufacturing costs, allowing Apple to offer it at a lower price. However, the 12-inch MacBook had a major downside—its single USB-C port. If Apple were to revive this model, an additional port would be essential for practicality.

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2. A Return to the Wedge-Shaped MacBook Air

Another realistic approach could be reviving the 2018 MacBook Air design. This model, which lasted until the M1 MacBook Air in 2020, featured a lightweight aluminum wedge design that many consider one of Apple’s best. A MacBook SE based on this design could feature an M2 chip, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage—enough for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption. By using an existing design rather than developing an entirely new chassis, Apple could significantly cut costs while delivering a premium-feeling laptop. A 13-inch MacBook SE in this design could fit perfectly into Apple’s lineup as a truly budget-friendly option.

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3. Lowering Costs With Minimal Changes

If Apple truly wanted to release a MacBook under $700, it would have to make some sacrifices. The most significant cost-saving measure would be reducing internal storage to 128GB, as Apple has done in the past with entry-level Mac models. While not ideal for power users, cloud storage and external drives could help mitigate the limitation for casual users.

Apple could also use a bin version of the M2 or M3 chip with fewer cores to keep costs down. Reducing the number of Thunderbolt ports or using a lower-quality display (such as a non-Retina LCD instead of a Liquid Retina panel) could also help reduce costs while maintaining a reasonable level of performance.

How Much Would a MacBook SE Cost?

For a budget MacBook to make sense, it would need to be priced below the existing MacBook Air models. Looking at Apple’s pricing trends, the Mac Mini currently starts at $599 with an M4 chip and 16GB of RAM. Since a laptop requires a screen, keyboard, trackpad, and battery, it would inevitably cost more to produce.

A reasonable estimate for a MacBook SE would be around $699. This would position it between the iPad Pro (which can cost over $1,000 with accessories) and the MacBook Air. If Apple could offer this price point, it would be an attractive option for students, educators, and general users who don’t need the latest and greatest hardware.

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Will Apple Ever Release a Budget MacBook?

While rumors of a budget-friendly MacBook have persisted for years, Apple has never confirmed such a device is in development. The company has always positioned its MacBooks as premium devices, emphasizing build quality, longevity, and the macOS experience. There are several reasons why Apple may not introduce a MacBook SE:

1. Profit Margins: Apple maintains high-profit margins by selling premium products. A $699 MacBook SE could risk cutting into MacBook Air sales without significantly boosting Apple’s overall revenue.
2. Brand Positioning: Apple has always marketed its MacBooks as high-end laptops. A low-cost MacBook could dilute the brand’s premium image.
3. iPad as a Budget Option: Instead of offering a cheap MacBook, Apple often promotes the iPad with a keyboard as an affordable alternative for casual users and students.
4. Component Costs: Even if Apple used older designs, the cost of high-quality displays, batteries, and chips might prevent the company from reaching a price low enough to compete with budget Windows laptops.

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Alternatives for Budget-Conscious Buyers

While a MacBook SE remains purely speculative, budget-conscious buyers still have a few options to get a MacBook at a lower price:

• Refurbished MacBooks: Apple offers certified refurbished models with warranties, often at significant discounts.
• Previous-Generation MacBooks: The M2 MacBook Air is frequently available at lower prices from third-party retailers.
• Education Discounts: Students and educators can get a discount on new MacBooks, bringing prices down by around $100.
• Mac Mini + Monitor Setup: If portability isn’t a priority, a Mac Mini paired with an affordable monitor can provide a great macOS experience for as low as $599.

Conclusion: A MacBook SE is Possible, But Unlikely

A $700 MacBook SE could be a game-changer, providing an affordable way for more people to access macOS. However, given Apple’s focus on premium devices and high margins, the chances of it happening are slim. While Apple could easily repurpose older designs and components, the company may see little incentive to do so when existing MacBook models sell well at higher prices. For now, the best way to get an affordable MacBook is through discounts, refurbished options, or considering alternatives like the iPad or Mac Mini. Unless Apple changes its pricing strategy, a budget MacBook will likely remain a dream rather than a reality.

Last update on 2025-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API