Apple MacBook Air (13-Inch, M4) Evaluation: Extra Energy for Much less Cash

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 school. (You’ll be able to learn extra about that journey right here.) As somebody all the time engaged on the go, I’ve all the time 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 overview, 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 obtainable on its predecessor). Apple did throw in an up to date 12-megapixel webcam and a brand new blue shade choice, however apart from that, the chassis stays the identical.

Usually, 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 value 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 very best configuration will value $2,199.

Though there are nonetheless a number of further issues I had on my want record for this next-gen model (a nano-texture glass choice being considered one of them), the MacBook Air with M4 continues to stay as much as its popularity as a dependable, light-weight machine and the finest MacBook for most individuals. The truth that it is as reasonably priced because it was is the cherry on high.

Refined Alterations

As with earlier generations, the 13-inch MacBook Air has a sq. chassis, an enormous and shiny 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 comfy 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 absolutely 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 may join the MacBook Air to as much as two exterior screens (we’ll get to that later). As a substitute, you will have to make use of a chunky USB-C hub, which is simply one other accent you will have to purchase (should you do not have already got one) and carry round.

{Photograph}: Brenda Stolyar