When you think of a good productivity laptop, Apple’s MacBook lineup is one of the first options to come to mind. And as we step into 2026, tech enthusiasts as well as Apple fans across the world are curious about the next set of MacBooks in store. For years, upgrades to the MacBook lineup have been all about chipset upgrades, incremental design refinements and slow steps toward a more unified hardware strategy. But if reports are accurate, 2026 might finally be the year Apple breaks that rhythm. Two MacBook models in particular have captured the attention of analysts, insiders and long time fans. One is expected to be Apple’s most affordable laptop in years and the other is shaping up to be one of the most radical MacBook Pro redesigns.
Together, these two machines could signal the start of a new chapter for the Mac. One where Apple does not just protect its premium base but aggressively expands the ecosystem at both ends. Here is a deeper look at both devices and why 2026 could become a landmark year for Apple’s laptops.
Rumours of a budget friendly MacBook surfaced a lot this year. And if Apple does bring a budget-friendly laptop, things will change. For more than a decade, owning a MacBook has been synonymous with spending a large amount of money. Even the older MacBook Air models rarely dipped into a range that could make a casual buyer or first time student consider switching. Hence, the MacBook has been almost inaccessible for those looking for a budget-friendly device.
