Apple has introduced the affordable MacBook Neo in four colors: silver, blush, citrus, and indigo. CNET editors voted on their preferences, with indigo emerging as the top choice. The laptop starts at $599 for the 256GB model.
Apple recently unveiled several new products, including the iPhone 17E and updated MacBook Pro models featuring M5 Pro and M5 Max chips. Among these, the MacBook Neo has drawn significant attention for its pricing and design options. Available in 256GB for $599 or 512GB for $699, the device comes in silver, blush, citrus, and indigo shades.
CNET staff conducted an informal poll to determine the most appealing color. Silver received the fewest votes at 4%, described as the default option that feels predictable yet clean. The other colors fared better, with citrus and indigo leading.
Managing Editor Josh Goldman noted citrus as a yellow-green hue he does not favor, observed at the New York Apple event, but preferred blush for its subtle shift from silver to pink in different lighting. Senior Copy Editor Sarah McDermott called citrus the "worst of both worlds" and chose blush. Senior Editor Lori Grunin expressed dislike for citrus, stating "Get your green out of my yellow," and while she likes pink best, she finds all-pink devices ugly; she would select indigo for a purchase.
Senior Editor James Bricknell viewed citrus as resembling an unripe lemon but ranked it highest, aligning with his yellow iPad as Apple's most fun color. The author of the piece also favored citrus, followed by indigo, and appreciated blush as a lovely pastel.
Indigo ultimately won with 38% of votes, closely followed by citrus at 35%, and blush at 23%. Staff expressed nostalgia for bolder colors like the past Product (Red) line or translucent iBooks. Social Media Manager Faith Chihil hoped for a return to translucent designs, while Senior Writer Jeff Carlson suggested transparent aluminum. Preorders are available now, with official launch on March 11.
