These are my favorite MacBook Neo accessories after one month

I’ve had the MacBook Neo for a month, and it’s been an absolute pleasure to use. The Neo has been one of the more exciting new Apple products in a while. It gives you insane value, amazing build quality, and great performance, especially for the price. But to get the price down to $599, Apple had to make some compromises. To elevate my experience a bit, I added a few budget-friendly accessories that I think anyone can add to their MacBook Neo setup.

First and foremost, the MacBook Neo’s most notable compromise is its lack of a touchpad. While the trackpad on the MacBook Pro is a beloved feature, the Neo opts for a more traditional mouse and keyboard setup. This decision was likely made to reduce costs and simplify the design, but it does mean that users must adapt to a different way of navigating the interface. To address this, I opted for a budget-friendly wireless mouse. The Logitech MK270, priced at just $19.99, offers a sleek design and reliable performance. It pairs effortlessly with the MacBook Neo and provides the precision and comfort I needed.

Another compromise in the MacBook Neo is its limited number of ports. The device only includes a single USB-C port, which can be a challenge for users who need to connect multiple peripherals or charge devices simultaneously. To overcome this, I invested in a USB-C hub. The Anker PowerPort Atom III, available for around $20, expands the MacBook Neo’s port options with two additional USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a microSD card reader. This hub not only allows me to connect my external hard drive, wired keyboard, and monitor but also ensures that I can charge my phone or other devices without cluttering the workspace.

The MacBook Neo’s display is another area where Apple had to make some trade-offs. While it boasts a crisp Retina display, it lacks the high refresh rate and advanced color capabilities found in the MacBook Pro. For those who require a more immersive viewing experience, a budget-friendly external monitor can make a significant difference. The LG 24MP59G-P, priced at around $99, offers a 24-inch IPS display with Full HD resolution. It’s lightweight, energy-efficient, and provides excellent color accuracy. Pairing it with the MacBook Neo allows me to work on multiple applications side by side or watch videos in a more comfortable viewing distance.

Lastly, the MacBook Neo’s keyboard is a topic of mixed reviews. Some users praise its compact design and tactile feedback, while others find it uncomfortable for extended typing sessions. To address this, I decided to try a mechanical keyboard. The KRUX K8, available for around $39.99, offers a full-size layout with Cherry MX Blue switches. It provides the satisfying click sound and tactile feel that many typists crave, while also being compact enough to travel with. The keyboard’s aluminum frame ensures durability, and its USB-C connection allows for easy pairing with the MacBook Neo.

In conclusion, the MacBook Neo is a fantastic device that offers great value and performance. However, its compromises in areas like ports, touchpad, and display can be addressed with a few well-chosen accessories. By investing in a wireless mouse, USB-C hub, external monitor, and mechanical keyboard, I’ve been able to enhance my overall experience and make the most of the MacBook Neo’s capabilities. These budget-friendly additions not only improve functionality but also add a personal touch to the setup, making it a versatile and enjoyable workspace for both work and leisure.