Apple MacBook "Core m3" 1.1 12" (Early 2016) Specs
Identifiers: Early 2016 - MLHA2LL/A* - MacBook9,1 - A1534 - 2991
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The MacBook "Core m3" 1.1 12-Inch (Early 2016) features a 14-nm 1.1 GHz Intel "Core m3" Skylake processor (M3-6Y30) with two independent processor "cores" on a single chip, a 4 MB level 3 cache, an "integrated" Intel HD Graphics 515 graphics processor that shares system memory, 8 GB of onboard 1866 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM (that cannot be upgraded), and 256 GB of onboard PCIe 3.0-based flash storage (that also cannot be upgraded).
This all is housed in a wafer thin (0.14-0.52 inch), 2.03 pound, aluminum case offered in Silver, a darker "Space Gray," Gold, and a pink-tinted "Rose Gold" color options. It also packs a lowly 480p FaceTime webcam, a backlit full-size keyboard with a thin "butterfly mechanism" keyboard design, a clever haptic-capable "Force Touch" trackpad, and a beautiful 12" TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "Retina" display (2304x1440 native resolution at 226 ppi). It delivers 10-11 hours of battery life depending on use.
Compared to its predecessor, it is similar, but has a more advanced processor and graphics processor, faster RAM, faster storage, a higher capacity battery, and a new "Rose Gold" finish option.
Also see:
- What are all the differences between the "Early 2016" 12-Inch MacBook models? (In-Depth)
- What are all the differences between the "Early 2016" 12-Inch Retina Display MacBook models and the "Early 2015" models replaced? (In-Depth)
- What are the "pros and cons" of the 12-Inch Retina Display MacBook? Is it for me? (Quick Read)
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- Tech Specs
- Ports
- Global Original Prices
- Popular Q&As
Click on a category for related details. The most commonly needed info is "open" by default, but all info is important. Asterisks (*) reference data in details fields.
| Introduction Date: |
April 19, 2016 |
Discontinued Date: |
June 5, 2017 |
| Details: |
The "Introduction Date" refers to the date a model was introduced via press release. The "Discontinued Date" refers to the date a model either was replaced by a subsequent system or production otherwise ended.
Also see: All Macs introduced in 2016. |
| Processors: |
1 (2 Cores) |
Architecture: |
64-Bit |
| Geekbench 2 (32): |
5589 |
Geekbench 2 (64): |
6438 |
| Details: |
Geekbench 2 benchmarks are in 32-bit and 64-bit modes, respectively. These numbers reflect an average of user provided 32-bit and 64-bit results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 32-bit and 64-bit Geekbench 2 user submissions for Macs with the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 2 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Geekbench 3 (32): |
2311 |
Geekbench 3 (32): |
4474 |
| Details: |
These Geekbench 3 benchmarks are in 32-bit mode and are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 32-bit single core and multicore Geekbench 3 user submissions for Macs with the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare 32-bit Geekbench 3 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Geekbench 3 (64): |
2528 |
Geekbench 3 (64): |
5004 |
| Details: |
These Geekbench 3 benchmarks are in 64-bit mode and are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all 64-bit single core and multicore Geekbench 3 user submissions for Macs with the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare 64-bit Geekbench 3 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Geekbench 4 (SC): |
2686 |
Geekbench 4 (MC): |
5135 |
| Details: |
These Geekbench 4 benchmarks are are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. All Geekbench 4 benchmarks are 64-bit. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all single core and multicore Geekbench 4 user submissions for Macs with the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 4 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Geekbench 5 (SC): |
499 |
Geekbench 5 (MC): |
1120 |
| Details: |
These Geekbench 5 benchmarks are are for a single processor core and all processor cores, respectively. All Geekbench 5 benchmarks for the Mac are 64-bit. Both numbers reflect an average of user provided results as submitted to the Geekbench website. Higher numbers are better.
You also might be interested in reviewing all single core and multicore Geekbench 5 user submissions for Macs with the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier, which may include multiple models.
To dynamically compare Geekbench 5 results from different Macs side-by-side, see EveryMac.com's Ultimate Mac Comparison. |
| Processor Speed: |
1.1 GHz |
Processor Type: |
Core m3 (M3-6Y30) |
| Details: |
This model is powered by a 14 nm, 1.1 GHz 64-bit "Sixth Generation/Skylake" Intel Mobile m3 (M3-6Y30) processor which includes two independent processor "cores" on a single silicon chip. Each core has a dedicated 256k level 2 cache, shares 4 MB of level 3 cache, and has an integrated memory controller (dual channel).
This system also supports "Turbo Boost 2.0" -- which "automatically increases the speed of the active cores" to improve performance when needed (up to 2.2 GHz for this model) -- and "Hyper Threading" -- which allows the system to recognize four total "cores" or "threads" (two real and two virtual).
Also see: How fast are the "Early 2016" MacBook models compared to one another? How much faster are these models than the "Early 2015" line replaced? How fast are they compared to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro? |
| Turbo Boost: |
2.2 GHz |
Custom Speeds: |
1.3 GHz* |
| Details: |
*This model also could be custom configured with a 1.3 GHz Core m7 (M7-6Y75) for an extra US$250. This processor supports "Turbo Boost 2.0" -- which "automatically increases the speed of the active cores" to improve performance when needed up to 3.1 GHz -- and "Hyper Threading" -- which allows the system to recognize four total "cores" or "threads" (two real and two virtual).
EveryMac.com also has documented this custom configuration as its own model. |
| Processor Upgrade: |
Soldered |
FPU: |
Integrated |
| System Bus Speed: |
OPI* |
Cache Bus Speed: |
1.1 GHz (Built-in) |
| Details: |
*This system does not have a traditional system bus or a "Direct Media Interface" (DMI) to connect between the processor and chipset. Instead, it uses a directly attached "On Package Interface" (OPI). |
| ROM/Firmware Type: |
EFI |
EFI Architecture: |
64-Bit |
| L1 Cache: |
32k/32k x2 |
L2/L3 Cache: |
256k x2, 4 MB (on chip) |
| Details: |
Each core has its own dedicated 256k level 2 cache and the system has 4 MB of shared level 3 cache. |
| RAM Type: |
LPDDR3 SDRAM* |
Min. RAM Speed: |
1866 MHz |
| Details: |
*Shipped standard with 8 GB of 1866 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM onboard. |
| Standard RAM: |
8 GB |
Maximum RAM: |
8 GB |
| Motherboard RAM: |
8 GB |
RAM Slots: |
None |
| Details: |
There are no RAM slots. 8 GB of RAM is onboard and it cannot be upgraded later. |
| Video Card: |
HD Graphics 515 |
VRAM Type: |
Integrated |
| Details: |
This model has an Intel HD Graphics 515 graphics processor that shares memory with the system. |
| Standard VRAM: |
1.5 GB* |
Maximum VRAM: |
1.5 GB* |
| Details: |
*The Intel HD Graphics 515 processor reserves 1.5 GB of system memory for video function. |
| Built-in Display: |
12" (16:10) |
Native Resolution: |
2304x1440 |
| Details: |
12" color TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "Retina" display with IPS technology and a 2304 by 1440 native resolution at 226 ppi (16:10 aspect ratio). Apple reports that it also supports "1440 by 900, 1280 by 800, and 1024 by 640" as scaled resolutions.
In the US, site sponsor AppleParts.io offers mail-in repair services, as well as parts for do-it-yourself repair for this this MacBook.
In the UK, site sponsor ALB Repair offers component-level logic board repair, display repair, and other repair services for this MacBook. No fix, no fee!
In Spain, site sponsor iRepairs provides affordable repair and data recovery services. In-person and by mail repair services include the display, battery, keyboard, motherboard, and more for this MacBook.
In Hong Kong, site sponsor iCertified provides well-reviewed repair services for the display, logic board, battery, water damage, and more, all with a 180-day warranty; free diagnostics and estimates; and optional pickup and delivery for this MacBook. |
| 2nd Display Support: |
Dual/Mirroring |
2nd Max. Resolution: |
3840x2160 |
| Details: |
This model can simultaneously support the internal display as well as up to 3840x2160 at 30 Hz on an external display, both at "millions of colors."
Also see: How do you connect an external display to the Retina MacBook? What is the maximum supported resolution? What is the best USB-C monitor to use? What adapters are required? |
| Standard Storage: |
256 GB SSD |
Std. Storage Speed: |
845/947 MB/s* |
| Details: |
This model has 256 GB of PCIe-based flash storage soldered onboard. It cannot be upgraded at all, whether at the time of purchase or otherwise.
*Third-party tests using the Blackmagic benchmark report write speeds of 845 MB/s and read speeds of 947 MB/s. QuickBench Extended reports 900.11 MB/s writes and 1196.17 MB/s reads.
In the US (and many other countries), site sponsor Other World Computing sells external storage upgrades for this MacBook.
How do you connect external storage to the Retina Display MacBook? What options are available? Is it possible? Are adapters required?
Also see: SSD Compatibility Guide for All G3 & Later Macs. |
| Storage Dimensions: |
Soldered |
Storage Interface: |
Onboard (PCIe 3.0 x2) |
| Details: |
This model has onboard PCIe 3.0 x2 storage. It cannot be upgraded. |
| Standard Optical: |
None* |
Standard Disk: |
None |
| Details: |
*This MacBook model does not have an internal optical drive. Site sponsor Adorama offers the external Apple USB SuperDrive for US$79, although an adapter is required, as well. It writes DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL at 4X, DVD-R and DVD+R at 8X, DVD-RW at 6X, DVD+RW at 8X, reads DVD at 8X, writes CD-R at 24X, writes CD-RW at 16X, and reads CD at 24X.
Site sponsor Other World Computing also has a variety of compact external optical drive options that may be of interest, including some with Blu-ray capability.
Also see: What are the full capabilities of the external SuperDrive available for the MacBook? Can it be used with other Macs? |
| Standard Modem: |
None |
Standard Ethernet: |
None |
| Details: |
This MacBook does not have internal Ethernet support. Apple, likewise, has not released a USB-C to Ethernet adapter, although third-party adapters are available.
How do you connect the Retina Display MacBook to a wired Ethernet network? Is it even possible? |
| Standard AirPort: |
802.11ac* |
Standard Bluetooth: |
4.0 |
| Details: |
802.11ac Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n compatible) and Bluetooth 4.0 standard.
Also see: What is 802.11ac? How is it different from 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n? |
| USB Ports: |
1 (C) |
Firewire Ports: |
None |
| Details: |
One USB-C port. Supports USB 3.1 Gen 1.
What is USB-C? What adapters are available for the Retina Display MacBook USB-C port? |
| Expansion Slots: |
None |
Expansion Bays: |
None |
| Details: |
No expansion slots or bays provided.
In the US (and many other countries), site sponsor Other World Computing sells a wide variety of external expansion options and accessories, including docks, cables, adapters, input devices, cases, and more for this MacBook. |
| Incl. Keyboard: |
Full-size |
Incl. Input: |
Trackpad (Force Touch) |
| Details: |
Apple reports that the integrated keyboard has "78 (US) or 79 (ISO) individual LED backlit keys, including 12 function keys and 4 arrow keys with ambient light sensor."
The "Force Touch" trackpad offers "precise cursor control and pressure-sensing capabilities; enables Force clicks, accelerators, pressure-sensitive drawing, and Multi-Touch gestures." |
| Case Type: |
Notebook |
Form Factor: |
MacBook Retina 12" |
| Details: |
This MacBook uses an extremely thin aluminum case design with a "catchless" magnetic latch. It is available in four color choices -- silver, gold, dark "Space Gray" or pink-hued "Rose Gold" options. |
| Apple Order No: |
MLHA2LL/A* |
Apple Subfamily: |
Early 2016 |
| Details: |
*MLHA2LL/A refers to this model in Silver. In Space Gray it is MLH72LL/A, in Gold it is MLHE2LL/A, and in Rose Gold it is MMGL2LL/A. |
| Apple Model No: |
A1534 (EMC 2991) |
Model ID: |
MacBook9,1 |
| Details: |
Please note that these identifiers refer to more than one model.
Also see: All Macs with the A1534 Model Number, the 2991 EMC Number, and the MacBook9,1 Model Identifier.
For more about these identifiers and how to locate them on each Mac, please refer to EveryMac.com's Mac Identification section. |
| Battery Type: |
41.4 W h Li-Poly |
Battery Life: |
10-11 Hours |
| Details: |
Apple reports that this model can provide up to 10 hours of "wireless web" and up to 11 hours of "iTunes movie playback" as well as up to "30 days" of standby time. The system is bundled with a 29W USB-C power adapter.
Also see: What is the "real-world" battery life of the "Early 2016" 12-Inch Retina Display MacBook? How does it compare to the MacBook Air and Retina Display MacBook Pro models? |
| Pre-Installed MacOS: |
X 10.11.4 (15E2066) |
Maximum MacOS: |
12.x (Monterey) |
| Details: |
This system fully supports the last version of OS X 10.11 "El Capitan," macOS Sierra (10.12), and macOS High Sierra (10.13). Running macOS High Sierra (10.13) or later, this model does support HEVC hardware acceleration.
This model is compatible with the final version of macOS Mojave (10.14), macOS Catalina (10.15), and macOS Big Sur (macOS 11), as well. It additionally supports the final version of macOS Monterey (macOS 12), but it does not support AirPlay to Mac and the more minor Spatial Audio, Portrait Mode, 3D Landmarks, and Interactive Globe features. When paired with a compatible iPad, it supports the Sidecar feature. It does not support macOS Ventura (macOS 13) or later.
Also see: Which Macs are compatible with macOS Monterey (macOS 12)? What are the system requirements? What are the major new features? Do all features work with all supported Macs? |
| Minimum Windows: |
8 (64-Bit)* |
Maximum Windows: |
10 (64-Bit)* |
| Details: |
*The pre-installed version of Apple's Boot Camp BCA supports the 64-bit version of Windows 8 and Windows 10. Earlier versions of Windows are not supported. |
| MacOS 9 Support: |
None |
Windows Support: |
Boot/Virtualization |
| Details: |
Also see: Are there any third-party programs to run Mac OS 9/Classic applications on Intel Macs?
For more on running Windows on Intel Macs, please refer to the exhaustive Windows on Mac Q&A. |
| Dimensions: |
.14-.52 x 11.04 x 7.74 |
Avg. Weight: |
2.03 lbs (0.92 kg) |
| Details: |
In inches while closed - minimum height to maximum height by width by depth, (0.35 cm-1.31 cm, 28.05 cm, 19.65 cm). |
| Original Price (US): |
US$1299 |
Est. Current Retail: |
US$250-US$400 |
| Details: |
The original price is the same regardless of color.
Please note that on average the estimated current retail pricing of used systems is updated twice a year (please refer to the date on the bottom of the page for the date last updated).
Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. |
Global original prices for the MacBook "Core m3" 1.1 12" (Early 2016) in 34 different countries and territories follow; organized alphabetically by region.
For global original prices for Intel Macs in one particular country on a single page, please refer to EveryMac.com's Global Original Prices section.
Original Prices - North & South America
| Canada: |
C$1549 |
Brazil: |
R$11.399 |
| Mexico: |
MXN $26,999 |
United States: |
US$1299 |
Original Prices - Europe
| Austria: |
€1449 |
Belgium: |
€1449 |
| Denmark: |
DKK 11,299 |
Finland: |
€1499 |
| France: |
€1449 |
Germany: |
€1449 |
| Ireland: |
€1499 |
Italy: |
€1499 |
| Luxembourg: |
€1401,10 |
Netherlands: |
€1449 |
| Norway: |
NOK 14.990 |
Portugal: |
€1500,26 |
| Spain: |
€1449 |
Sweden: |
SEK 14.495 |
| Switzerland: |
CHF 1'399 |
United Kingdom: |
£1049 |
Original Prices - Asia
| China: |
RMB 9,288 |
Hong Kong: |
HK$9,988 |
| India: |
Rs 106,900 |
Indonesia: |
Rp 18,199,000 |
| Japan: |
¥148,800 |
Korea: |
KRW 1,590,000 |
| Malaysia: |
RM 5,499 |
The Philippines: |
PHP 64,990 |
| Singapore: |
S$1,788 |
Taiwan: |
NT$41,900 |
| Thailand: |
THB 49,900 |
Vietnam: |
VND 30,980,000 |
Original Prices - Australia & New Zealand
| Australia: |
A$1999 |
New Zealand: |
NZ$2399 |
If you have additional original prices for this model, please get in touch. Thank you.
Ten of the most popular Q&As about the MacBook models follow.
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