Cellular connectivity has become an increasingly popular feature in laptops over the past few years. This allows users to access the internet through cellular networks when WiFi is not available, providing constant connectivity on the go. Apple’s Macbook laptops have adopted cellular capabilities as well, with certain models offering built-in cellular modems. This opens up new levels of flexibility for Macbook users who need internet access everywhere they go.
Cellular connectivity on laptops like Macbooks works through embedded SIM cards and built-in cellular modems, allowing you to sign up for data plans through cellular carriers and connect to their networks. While not all Macbook models have this capability, Apple has brought cellular connectivity to both the Macbook Air and Macbook Pro line in recent years. Understanding the cellular capabilities across Macbook models can help buyers make the right choice for their needs.
Cellular Connectivity in Laptops
Laptops with built-in cellular connectivity allow users to access the internet through cellular networks without relying on Wi-Fi. This provides several benefits:
– Access to high-speed 4G LTE and 5G networks for internet connectivity on the go, without finding a Wi-Fi network[1].
– Ability to stay connected and productive anywhere with cellular coverage, even when a Wi-Fi network is unavailable.
– Avoidance of public Wi-Fi security risks by using your private cellular connection.
However, there are some downsides to consider:
– Additional monthly costs for cellular data plans.
– Potentially shorter battery life when using cellular connectivity compared to Wi-Fi[2].
– Slower speeds or coverage gaps in some areas depending on cellular carrier.
– Limited availability, as not all laptop models offer built-in cellular.
Cellular Capabilities of Macbook Models
When it comes to cellular capabilities, the selection of Macbook models is quite limited. As of 2023, only the higher-end configurations of the Macbook Pro 16-inch and 14-inch models offer built-in cellular connectivity.
Specifically, the Macbook Pro models with the M2 Max or M2 Pro chip have the option to add 5G and 4G LTE cellular connectivity. This is enabled through an Intel XMM 7660 modem chip that supports sub-6GHz 5G bands as well as gigabit 4G LTE speeds.
The supported 5G bands allow connections on most major 5G networks like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile in the US. Speeds can reach up to 3.5Gbps download and 1.5Gbps upload on 5G, while 4G LTE is rated at 1Gbps download and upload speeds (source).
However, the lower-end Macbook Pro 13-inch model and the Macbook Air do not have integrated cellular connectivity options. The only way to get cellular capabilities on those models is through a third-party adapter or hotspot device.
In summary, integrated cellular with 5G and 4G LTE is currently only available on select high-end Macbook Pro 16-inch and 14-inch models. Support is limited to bands used by major US carriers, providing fast connectivity speeds where 5G or 4G networks are available.
Cellular Connectivity in Macbook Air
The MacBook Air has never offered built-in cellular connectivity options from Apple. All models of the MacBook Air rely on Wi-Fi connectivity or wired connections to access the internet (source). There are no models of the MacBook Air that contain cellular antennas, radios, or SIM card slots from the factory.
This is true going all the way back to the original MacBook Air in 2008. While cellular connectivity has become more common in laptops over the years, especially with the rise of 4G LTE and now 5G networks, Apple has chosen not to add this capability to the MacBook Air (source). The MacBook Air line has always been positioned as Apple’s entry-level and most portable laptop option without cellular connectivity.
With no built-in cellular capabilities, MacBook Air users have to rely on connecting their smartphones to the laptop via Personal Hotspot or finding Wi-Fi networks to access the internet when not connected via ethernet. While some users may prefer having built-in cellular for the convenience while traveling and being away from Wi-Fi, the MacBook Air achieves longer battery life and lower cost without it.
Cellular Connectivity in Macbook Pro
Apple first introduced cellular connectivity in the Macbook Pro in 2017 with the launch of the 15-inch Macbook Pro models. These models came with built-in 4G LTE modems that allowed users to connect to high-speed cellular networks without needing a separate cellular hotspot or dongle (1). The Macbook Pro offered gigabit LTE connectivity, providing speeds up to 1 Gbps on supporting networks. This gave users greatly improved mobility and connectivity on the go compared to relying solely on WiFi hotspots.
Initially, the cellular models were only available for the higher-end 15-inch Macbook Pro configuration. In 2018, Apple brought cellular connectivity to the 13-inch Macbook Pro as well (2). For a number of generations since then, customers have been able to choose cellular-enabled models of both the 13-inch and 15-inch Macbook Pro lineup. The cellular modem supports a wide range of LTE frequency bands and is compatible with major carriers around the world.
Currently, the M1 and M2 chip Macbook Pro models continue to offer optional built-in cellular connectivity. The latest models include 5G support, thanks to Apple’s partnership with Qualcomm. This provides users with access to the fastest 5G networks for the best possible speeds and connectivity (3). The premium for cellular connectivity has also dropped over time, making it a more affordable upgrade option for Macbook Pro users who need internet access on the go.
(1) https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2017/02/04/apple-macbook-pro-cellular-connectivity/
(2) https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/7/12/17563972/apple-new-macbook-pro-iphone-rumors-news-recap
(3) https://www.macrumors.com/2021/10/27/m1-pro-m1-max-5g-modem/
Comparison to Windows Laptops
Compared to Windows laptops, a smaller selection of Macbooks offer cellular capabilities. According to research on Windows Central, there are several Windows laptop models that have built-in 4G LTE or 5G connectivity. Major manufacturers like Lenovo, HP, and Dell offer Windows laptops with cellular options across various product lines. In contrast, cellular connectivity on Macbooks is currently only available on certain configurations of the Macbook Pro and select models of the now discontinued 12-inch Macbook.
The main advantage of Windows laptops is the wider range of cellular-enabled models at various price points. While cellular connectivity comes at a premium on Macbooks, it is more common and affordable as an add-on for Windows laptops. For example, the HP Elite Dragonfly offers a built-in SIM card slot starting under $1,600. Cellular-equipped Windows laptops also tend to support connections to more cellular networks and bands compared to the Macbook’s Apple SIM.
However, Macbooks offer the advantage of tight integration between the hardware and software when using cellular connectivity. Features like Instant Hotspot for sharing iPhone cellular data and Handoff for transitioning between devices work seamlessly on Macbooks with cellular. The MacBook cellular antenna is also specially tuned for optimal performance with the macOS operating system.
Using Cellular on a Macbook
Macbooks with built-in cellular connectivity make it easy to get online anywhere there is cellular service. Here are some tips for setting up and using cellular data on your Macbook:
To activate cellular data, go to System Preferences > Cellular and select your cellular provider. You may need to contact your provider to add your Macbook’s built-in SIM card to your account. Some Macbooks also support eSIM activation.
Monitor your data usage in System Preferences > Cellular to avoid overages. You can set data limits and get notifications when you approach the limit. Turn off cellular data when not needed to conserve data.
If you have an iPhone, you can use Instant Hotspot to automatically connect your Macbook to your iPhone’s cellular data when WiFi is unavailable. Enable this in System Preferences on your Mac.
For optimal performance, use Location Services to help your Macbook switch between WiFi and cellular effectively as you move between areas with different connectivity.1
If you have issues with cellular connectivity, check for carrier updates in System Preferences, reset network settings, or contact your provider for troubleshooting.
Costs of Cellular Connectivity
Adding cellular connectivity to a Macbook does come with additional costs in the form of monthly data plans. According to discussions on the Apple forums, cellular data plans for Macbooks tend to cost around $10 USD per month from most carriers [1]. However, costs can vary depending on the data allowance and carrier.
Some key factors that impact the monthly cost of cellular data plans for Macbooks include:
- Data allowance – More data allowance results in higher monthly fees.
- Carrier – Costs can vary between carriers even for similar data allowances.
- Contract length – Longer contracts (e.g. 2 years) often have lower monthly fees.
- Shared vs individual plans – Sharing data allowances across devices reduces costs.
- Promotions and discounts – Carriers offer discounts and temporary promotions which lower costs.
Overall, adding cellular connectivity does require an additional ongoing investment. But month-to-month costs are generally affordable, especially for lighter data usage. Users should evaluate their typical data needs and carrier options to find a cellular plan that fits their budget.
Future Outlook
The future looks bright for cellular connectivity in Macbooks. Apple is expected to implement 5G in more models, with analysts predicting that all Macbooks will have 5G by 2023 (https://www.qualcomm.com/news/onq/2021/05/future-pc-how-5g-connectivity-will-transform-laptop-computing-modern-mobile-pcs). This will provide even faster cellular data speeds, lower latency, and expanded coverage compared to 4G LTE.
New cellular chipsets like the Snapdragon X65 are enabling better performance, efficiency, and thinner laptop designs (https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/reliably-connecting-the-workforce-of-the-future-which-is-now). Apple is likely to take advantage of these advancements to build sleeker and more capable Macbooks with 5G. The company is also working on its own cellular modems to further customize and enhance connectivity.
Overall, Macbook users can anticipate more ubiquitous and powerful cellular capabilities across Apple’s laptop lineup. This will empower true work from anywhere with fast, reliable connectivity built right into Macbooks without any dongles or hotspots required.
Conclusion
In summary, only select Macbook Pro models offer built-in cellular connectivity through an eSIM, while no Macbook Air models currently have this capability. The cellular models of the Macbook Pro allow you to access mobile data networks on the go without an external hotspot or tethering another device. This can provide more flexibility and connectivity when traveling or working remotely. However, the cellular models come at a premium price over the standard WiFi-only models.
For most general consumers, the cellular connectivity may not prove essential, as you can often rely on WiFi hotspots or tethering when needed. Businesses and professional users who require internet access at all times may find the cellular capabilities more worthwhile, if within their budgets. Looking ahead, cellular connectivity may become a more common and potentially standard feature across more Macbook models, as mobile data networks continue to expand. But for now, it remains a specialty offering found only on select high-end Macbook Pro configurations.