Overview
The Apple MacBook Retina 12 (2017) perfected the ultra-thin fanless notebook line by integrating 7th-generation Intel "Kaby Lake" core processors, faster SSD storage performance, improved memory support up to 16GB, and a more responsive keyboard mechanism while maintaining its signature featherlight 2-pound unibody design.
A comprehensive overview of its design, specifications, software, and features includes:
1. Design and Build
- Form Factor: Extremely thin, lightweight, fanless unibody aluminum chassis engineered for silent operation and ultimate travel portability.
- Dimensions & Weight: Height: 0.14–0.52 inch (0.35–1.31 cm); Width: 11.04 inches (28.05 cm); Depth: 7.74 inches (19.65 cm); Weight: 2.03 pounds (0.92 kg).
- Materials: Durable anodized aluminum enclosure available in Rose Gold, Space Gray, Silver, and Gold.
2. Performance and Processing
- Processor: Powered by dual-core 7th-generation Intel Core m3, Core i5, or Core i7 processors (ranging from 1.2GHz up to 1.4GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.6GHz).
- Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 delivering fluid visuals and support for external 4K displays.
- Unified/System Memory: Configured with 8GB or 16GB of fast 1866MHz LPDDR3 onboard memory.
- Storage: Fast PCIe-based onboard SSD storage options starting from 256GB up to 512GB.
3. Connectivity and Expansion
- Ports: Versatile USB-C port supporting charging, USB 3.1 Gen 1 data transfer up to 5 Gbps, and Native DisplayPort 1.2 video output, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Wireless: 802.11ac Wi-Fi networking and Bluetooth 4.2 technology.
Technical Specifications
Building upon the foundational overview, this technical deep-dive specification sheet provides a granular look at the hardware architecture, port configurations, and system metrics of the Apple MacBook Retina 12 (2017).
1. Display Specifications
- Screen Size: 12-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit Retina display with IPS technology, 2304 by 1440 native resolution at 226 pixels per inch with support for millions of colors and 16:10 aspect ratio
- Resolution: Scaled resolutions: 1440 by 900, 1280 by 800, and 1024 by 640 pixels
2. Processor and Graphics
- Processor: 1.2GHz dual-core Intel Core m3 (Turbo Boost up to 3.0GHz), 1.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 (Turbo Boost up to 3.2GHz), or configurable to 1.4GHz dual-core Intel Core i7 (Turbo Boost up to 3.6GHz)
- Graphics Processor: Intel HD Graphics 615
- Control & Input: Full-size keyboard with refined butterfly mechanism, individual LED backlit keys, and Force Touch trackpad for precise cursor control and pressure-sensing capabilities
3. Storage and Memory
- Memory: 8GB or 16GB of 1866MHz LPDDR3 onboard memory
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB PCIe-based onboard SSD storage
4. Connections and Expansion
- I/O Ports: 1x USB-C port with support for charging, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5 Gbps), Native DisplayPort 1.2 video output, and VGA/HDMI output using adapters (sold separately); 3.5mm headphone jack
- Audio: Stereo speakers, dual microphones, and 3.5mm headphone jack
5. Operating System Support
- Compatibility: Originally shipped with macOS Sierra and supports upgrades to subsequent modern macOS releases.