MacBook Early 2015

The MacBook "Core M" 1.3 12-Inch (Early 2015) is a "configure-to-order" option for either the MacBook "Core M" 1.1 12-Inch (Early 2015) or MacBook "Core M" 1.2 12-Inch (Early 2015), and is also documented as a separate model for clarity. Besides the processor, this model is identical to its lower-end counterparts.

While these models share the MacBook name with their predecessors, the "Retina" MacBook models are a complete departure from the past.

Engineered for ultimate portability, the "Early 2015" MacBook models are even lighter and thinner than the most compact MacBook Air models. With only a single USB-C port and a headphone jack, the hardware design is more akin to an iPad with an attached keyboard than to previous Apple notebooks. However, like the MacBook Air, these MacBooks run OS X, not the iPad's iOS.

The MacBook "Core M" 1.3 12-Inch (Early 2015) is powered by a 14-nm 1.3 GHz Intel "Core M" processor (M-5Y71) with two independent "cores" on a single chip, a 4 MB level 3 cache, and an integrated Intel HD Graphics 5300 processor sharing system memory. It comes with 8 GB of non-upgradable onboard 1600 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM and either 256 GB or 512 GB of non-upgradable onboard PCIe-based flash storage.

This is all enclosed in an exceptionally slim (0.14-0.52 inch), 2.03-pound aluminum case, available in traditional silver, gold, and a darker "Space Gray." It also includes a 480p FaceTime webcam, a backlit full-size keyboard with a thin "butterfly mechanism," an innovative haptic-capable "Force Touch" trackpad, and a stunning 12" TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "Retina" display (2304x1440 resolution at 226 ppi). Apple highlights that the notebook also utilizes a new "tiered" battery design to maximize internal space, providing 9-10 hours of runtime depending on use.

Offered as a build-to-order option, this 1.3 GHz model was the choice for maximizing the performance of the original 12-inch MacBook. Its Core M processor, with a higher clock speed than the standard models, showed a noticeable performance increase during Turbo Boost, with users commenting that it was "snappier than expected." However, the physical limitation of the fanless design remained, meaning the performance gains were temporary and the machine was still unsuitable for sustained heavy workloads. Users who opted for this model were primarily those who prioritized portability above all else but also desired a bit more performance headroom for everyday tasks. Consequently, while this machine was highly satisfactory for users with specific needs, it was not considered a machine for everyone.