Apple MacBook Neo in the iFixit teardown
The repair website iFixit has taken the Apple MacBook Neo apart and was pleasantly surprised by the laptop’s repairability. “We haven’t been this satisfied with a MacBook since 2012,” said iFixit.
The battery, speakers, ports, and trackpad are easily accessible and not hidden under other components as with most Apple laptops. The battery is not glued in but screwed in, making it easy to remove for repair or replacement. While 18 screws need to be removed, iFixit says the lack of adhesive on the battery is the biggest advantage when repairing the Apple MacBook Neo.
iFixit believes Apple is preparing for an upcoming EU law that, starting in early 2027, will require many portable devices to have user-replaceable batteries. Because of this regulation, we could see similar battery systems in future MacBook Air and Pro models.
Apple MacBook Neo: RAM and SSD not replaceable
While many cables need to be disconnected to access other components like the logic board, everything is easily accessible and not simply hidden away. However, the RAM and storage of the Apple MacBook Neo are soldered directly to the A18 Pro chip, which was to be expected, but limits repairability and upgradeability. The RAM and SSD cannot be upgraded after purchase.
The USB-C ports are implemented as a separate module and are not connected to the logic board. Damaged ports can therefore be replaced without repairing the logic board. The same applies to the headphone jack. The antenna assembly can be easily removed, which, according to iFixit, significantly simplifies screen replacement. After removing the antenna and unscrewing the hinge screws, the display can be easily detached, just like on a Framework laptop.
Apple used side-mounted speakers in the MacBook Neo. This simplified design, requiring less machining of the casing, likely saved costs. Furthermore, the Apple MacBook Neo was the first MacBook since 2015 to feature a mechanical trackpad, which is cheaper to manufacture.
The keyboard was the last part removed during the iFixit teardown and was secured with 41 screws. Removing these screws allows the keyboard to be detached separately from the upper case, making repairs more cost-effective.
Apple MacBook Neo Conclusion
According to iFixit, while the MacBook Neo isn’t perfect due to its soldered-in storage and RAM, it still offers “many advantages.” It boasts the most easily accessible battery in a Mac since 2012, an easily replaceable display, and modular components like the USB-C ports and headphone jack. iFixit thus rated its repairability at a respectable 6 out of 10.
For comparison: The Apple MacBook Pro 14″ M5 received 4 out of 10 points and the MacBook Air 13″ 2025 M4 scored 5 out of 10 points.
