MacBook Neo Leads in Early Sales, but M5 Air Still Holds Ground

Apple's latest laptop, the MacBook Neo, has made a strong entrance into the market, significantly outselling the newly released M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models during their respective launch periods. According to a recent report from market intelligence firm IDC, shared with TechCrunch, the MacBook Neo shipped an impressive 1.1 million units in the first quarter of 2026, ending March 11.

Neo Takes the Lead in Debut Quarter

In contrast, the M5 MacBook Air managed to ship over 900,000 units, while the more powerful M5 MacBook Pro models landed at approximately 550,000 units shipped in their initial quarters. This data provides the first concrete sales figures comparing these three significant additions to Apple's laptop lineup, all of which went on sale simultaneously on March 11.

"MacBook Neo was Apple’s bestselling new model during launch weeks, with strong momentum after."

While the MacBook Neo has emerged as the top performer among the new releases, the report also notes that when considering all MacBook Air models, not just the M5 variant, the Air likely retained its position as Apple's overall bestselling laptop during the three-week launch window and throughout the entire quarter. This highlights the enduring popularity and broad appeal of the MacBook Air line.

What's Next for Neo Shipments?

However, the story might shift in the current quarter, which spans from April through June. IDC's report suggests that launch-quarter figures may not tell the full story. Analyst forecasts predict a "very big spike" in MacBook Neo shipments for the April-June period. This projected surge is attributed to Apple working through initial supply constraints and expanding the availability of the new model.

"If MacBook Neo does get a big spike this quarter, that almost certainly will make it Apple’s overall bestselling Mac."

If these projections hold true and the MacBook Neo experiences a substantial increase in shipments, it would almost certainly cement its position as Apple's best-selling Mac overall, surpassing even the combined sales of the wider MacBook Air range.

Context:

Apple's strategy of staggered releases and the introduction of new chip architectures like the 'Neo' alongside established lines like the M5 Air and Pro often creates dynamic shifts in sales performance. The European market, in particular, has shown a strong preference for Apple's premium laptops, with demand often influenced by enterprise upgrade cycles and the growing use of Macs in creative industries across the continent. The success of the Neo could indicate a shift in consumer preference towards newer, potentially more integrated, architectures.

What this means for you:

If you're eyeing a new MacBook, this sales data suggests the MacBook Neo is currently the most sought-after model. This could mean longer wait times or fewer discounts on the Neo in the short term, especially if supply constraints persist. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the M5 MacBook Air remains a solid choice, and with older models still in the mix, you might find better deals on those. Keep an eye on availability and potential price adjustments as Apple ramps up Neo production.

What's still unclear:

• The exact profit margins for each MacBook model based on these sales figures.
• The specific impact of supply chain improvements on Neo availability in different global regions.
• Long-term sales trends beyond the initial launch quarters for all three models.
• Customer reception and return rates for the new MacBook Neo.

Why this matters:

MacBook Neo's strong start signals a potential shift in Apple's laptop hierarchy. The early sales data indicates a significant consumer appetite for Apple's newest offering, potentially redefining the best-selling Mac and influencing future product development and marketing strategies.