In the budget segment, Windows laptops usually win out on price. While there are a few compromises, accessibility was one of their biggest strengths. But due to the ongoing memory crunch, price hikes across different segments impacted their value proposition. With the launch of the MacBook Neo, things only got worse as Apple became a surprisingly decent option for those looking for a new entry-level notebook.
Now, Chuwi is keeping Windows in the conversation with its new UniBook. The company’s new budget model is a 14-inch laptop that has even managed to undercut the MacBook Neo.
What makes it special
The UniBook uses Intel’s Core 3 304, an entry-level Wildcat Lake chip with 5 cores and 5 threads, clock speeds up to 4.3GHz, and a basic Xe3 integrated GPU. This is not a gaming or creator-class processor, but it should be aimed squarely at everyday work, browsing, writing, streaming, and school tasks.
Chuwi pairs that with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 256GB PCIe 3.0 SSD, matching the base MacBook Neo’s memory and storage on paper while coming in at an estimated $449. Meanwhile, Apple’s MacBook Neo starts at $599 ($499 for students), offering a 13-inch panel, A18 Pro chip, and a solid battery life. So Chuwi is positioning it directly against Apple’s MacBook Neo, bringing a lower price, more ports, and a bigger screen.
Ports are a highlight here
The UniBook’s biggest advantage may be something practical. Chuwi lists two full-function USB-C ports, HDMI 2.0, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB 2.0 port, Gigabit Ethernet, a TF card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This is in stark contrast to Apple’s approach, where it offers a minimal setup with a premium build and better software integration.
Other notable features include a 14-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS display with 100% sRGB coverage, a white two-level backlit keyboard, a 180-degree hinge, active cooling, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Windows 11 Pro, and a 53.38Wh battery.
