MacBook Early 2016

The MacBook "Core m7" 1.3 12-Inch (Early 2016) is a "configure-to-order" version of either the MacBook "Core m3" 1.1 12-Inch (Early 2016) or MacBook "Core m5" 1.2 12-Inch (Early 2016), and is also documented as a distinct model for user convenience. Apart from the processor, this model is identical to its lower-end siblings.

The MacBook "Core m7" 1.3 12-Inch (Early 2016) is powered by a 14-nm 1.3 GHz Intel "Core m7" Skylake processor (M7-6Y75) with two independent "cores" on a single chip and a 4 MB level 3 cache. It includes an integrated Intel HD Graphics 515 processor that shares system memory, 8 GB of non-upgradable onboard 1866 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM, and either 256 GB or 512 GB of non-upgradable onboard PCIe 3.0-based flash storage.

This is all housed in an ultra-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 features 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). It delivers 10-11 hours of battery life depending on use.

Compared to its predecessor, it is similar but boasts a more advanced processor and graphics, faster RAM and storage, a higher-capacity battery, and an additional "Rose Gold" color option.

As the top-tier build-to-order option for the 2016 model year, this Core m7-equipped machine was the choice for users pursuing the absolute best performance in a 12-inch MacBook. Its processor, clocked higher than the Core m5 model, showed a clear advantage in benchmark tests and delivered more agile performance in real-world use. However, the fundamental limitation of the fanless design meant that opportunities to fully leverage its performance were limited, as it shared the same weakness under sustained heavy loads. Consequently, many reviews concluded that the performance gain over the Core m5 model was marginal and difficult to justify given the price difference. This machine can be seen as existing to meet the very niche demand for maximum possible performance without any sacrifice in portability.