Apple MacBook Air (13-Inch, M4) Review: More Power for Less Money Leave a comment

i have been devoted to the MacBook Air since 2012, once I purchased my first one with cash I saved up from a summer season job earlier than my first semester of faculty. (You may learn extra about that journey right here.) As somebody at all times engaged on the go, I’ve at all times been drawn to how light-weight it’s. When Apple revamped it again in 2022 with a brand new design, greater and brighter show, MagSafe assist, and a 1080p webcam, I used to be thrilled—this was my dream MacBook come to life.

However as I stated in final 12 months’s evaluation, the 13-inch MacBook Air has reached its peak when it comes to design. Apple continues to launch the identical mannequin whereas primarily specializing in the internals—and the identical logic applies to this newest model. The standout options are the M4 chip (the entry-level chip of the lineup) and double the bottom reminiscence (additionally out there on its predecessor). Apple did throw in an up to date 12-megapixel webcam and a brand new blue shade possibility, however except for that, the chassis stays the identical.

Sometimes, when a next-generation mannequin lacks any main additions, Apple retains the value the identical as earlier variations. This time, nonetheless, the value sees a welcome discount to $999—$100 lower than its predecessors. It is what the MacBook Air price earlier than the launch of the M2 mannequin (Apple did promote the M2-powered MacBook Air for $999 as soon as the M3 Air got here out, however the M4 replaces each fashions). So, which means the best configuration will price $2,199.

Though there are nonetheless just a few extra issues I had on my want listing for this next-gen model (a nano-texture glass possibility being one in all them), the MacBook Air with M4 continues to stay as much as its status as a dependable, light-weight machine and the very best MacBook for most individuals. The truth that it is as reasonably priced because it was is the cherry on high.

Delicate Alterations

As with earlier generations, the 13-inch MacBook Air has a sq. chassis, an enormous and vibrant 13.6-inch LCD panel (full with a 60-Hz refresh charge), a four-speaker sound system, and a three-mic array. Coming in at 2.7 kilos, it additionally stays tremendous light-weight and cozy to commute with. You may additionally get the identical port choice, which incorporates two USB 4/Thunderbolt ports, a MagSafe charging port, and a 3.5-mm headphone jack.

I totally perceive that an intensive port choice is often reserved for the MacBook Professional, however I really needed Apple so as to add at the least one further USB-C port right here—particularly since you’ll be able to join the MacBook Air to as much as two exterior screens (we’ll get to that later). As an alternative, you may have to make use of a chunky USB-C hub, which is simply one other accent you may have to purchase (in case you do not have already got one) and carry round.

{Photograph}: Brenda Stolyar