[Daneel_]

...yes. Yes I am. Egg on face.

The point still stands though, it's such a shame seeing the minimisation of ports on all systems these days. I can understand using standard ports (usb-c) for peripherals, but essentials such as Ethernet, display and several USB ports (whichever format) should remain built in.

[shoyer]

There's a simpler reason for the lack of an Ethernet port. Compare the size of an Ethernet port to a USB port on the Mac Pro and then look at the side of your MacBook Pro. The Ethernet port would not even fit.

[SyneRyder]

I bought a 2012 MacBook Pro (which Apple still sells in stores) instead of a 2015 model partly because it still has an Ethernet port. Apple could definitely make laptops with Ethernet, they're just choosing not to in their desire for ever thinner machines.

I also feel the keyboard and trackpad quality has deteriorated on the thinner devices. I much prefer the snap of the click on the 2012 MacBook Pro trackpad to the Force Touch simulated click.

[Daneel_]

I've seen expandable Ethernet ports on several ultrabooks - Toshibas in particular. They spring closed when not in use and the bottom half expands when you need to plug in a cable. Apple could manage it tastefully, I'm sure.

[exabrial]

There were expresscards in 90s that had Ethernet Jack's. The cable was inserted vertically.

[Daneel_]

*Edit - parent has also clarified that he has egg on face too. He meant a MacBook Pro as well.

[marknutter]

Good news! You don't have to buy the MacBook!