MacBook Early 2016

The MacBook "Core m3" 1.1 12-Inch (Early 2016) is powered by a 14-nm 1.1 GHz Intel "Core m3" Skylake processor (M3-6Y30), with two independent processor "cores" on a single chip and a 4 MB level 3 cache. It features an integrated Intel HD Graphics 515 processor that shares system memory, 8 GB of non-upgradable onboard 1866 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM, and 256 GB of non-upgradable onboard PCIe 3.0-based flash storage.

This is all contained within an exceptionally slim (0.14-0.52 inch), 2.03-pound aluminum case, offered in Silver, a darker "Space Gray," Gold, and a pink-hued "Rose Gold." It also includes a 480p FaceTime webcam, a backlit full-size keyboard with a thin "butterfly mechanism" design, an innovative haptic-capable "Force Touch" trackpad, and a stunning 12" TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "Retina" display (2304x1440 resolution at 226 ppi). This model provides 10-11 hours of battery life, depending on usage.

In comparison to its predecessor, this model is similar but offers a more advanced processor and graphics, faster RAM, quicker storage, a higher-capacity battery, and an additional "Rose Gold" color option.

The 2016 MacBook model featured a Skylake Core m3 processor, representing a solid performance upgrade from the previous year. Users widely noted that improvements in graphics performance and SSD read/write speeds resulted in a snappier overall experience. The addition of Rose Gold as a new color option also generated buzz. In response to feedback on the first-generation butterfly keyboard, key stability was slightly improved, though opinions on its unique typing feel remained divided. The single USB-C port persisted, and many users still found an adapter necessary. This model, which inherited the concept of the original while adding a layer of refinement, continued to be favored by those who prioritized portability.