Some of you may have guessed by now that (much to my fellow DIYP workmates’ disgust!) I am firmly ‘team Apple‘. I simply like the ease of use and iOS interface. However, I’d be the first to admit that the financial outlay is definitely a lot in comparison to both Android and PC options.
So it’s welcome news, then, that Apple has announced its updated M4 MacBook Airs will come out at a (slightly) more reasonable price. My MacBook Pro has the M2 chip which was a huge upgrade from the M1. While I’m not going to be upgrading my laptop anytime soon, I’m curious how much faster and more impressive the M4 chip could be. It’s highly likely that the MacBook Air with the M4 chip could be every bit as good as the older (more expensive) MacBook Pros.
The M4 Chip, A Leap in Performance?
The new MacBook Air is equipped with Apple’s next-generation M4 chip, which promises to deliver “unparalleled speed and efficiency”. The new chip builds on the success of its predecessors and features enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities, enabling faster processing, smoother graphics, and improved energy efficiency. Apple are saying in fact, that the M4 MacBook Air will be 23 times faster than an older one operating on the Intel chip. That is a lot faster, and according to MacRumours “The M4 outperforms the M3 by about 25% in single-core tasks and 30% in multi-core tasks. In GPU performance, the M4 offers improvement of around 21% over the M3.” So we can expect the new chip to be very efficient.
The M4 chip also includes an advanced Neural Engine, which accelerates machine learning tasks. Apple says this is 3 times faster than the M1 version. This is particularly beneficial for applications that rely on AI, such as photo and video editing, voice recognition, and more. This new chip will certainly make tasks like photo and video editing very rapid, particularly if you’re using processes like Photoshop’s Generative Fill.
Sleek Design and Display
No surprise that Apple has kept the usual sleek, lightweight design that we’ve become accustomed to. The new models are available in both 13-inch and 15-inch variants, catering to different preferences and needs. The Retina display, known for its vibrant colours and sharp details, remains a standout feature, offering an immersive viewing experience for both work and entertainment. The new laptops come in attractive colour options of Midnight, Starlight, Silver, and Sky Blue
Battery and Connectivity
Battery life has also been improved with an average single charge lasting 18 hours. The camera has been upgraded to a 12MP Center Stage camera that tracks you and positions you centrally in the screen, no matter how you’re sitting, and there’s also a top down desk view option too, to show whatever you’re working on. You can also connect to two 6K displays simultaneously.
Price and Availability
Apple has reduced the price of the MacBook Air, making it more accessible to a broader audience. This price cut, combined with the enhanced performance of the M4 chip, positions the MacBook Air as a compelling choice in the competitive laptop market.
The 13-inch model starts at a lower price point ($999 for 10-Core CPU, 8-Core GPU, 16GB of Unified Memory and a 256GB SSD), offering incredible value for those who want a high-performance laptop without breaking the bank.
The 15-inch model, while slightly more expensive ($1199 10-Core Chip, 16GB Unified RAM, 256GB SSD), provides additional screen space and power for users who need it, all while remaining competitively priced.
Of course, the usual trick of raising the price with increased memory and RAM applies, meaning that you do need to be confident in your needs versus price point before you get too excited at the price drop. Overall, however, this is a step in the right direction and we like a reduction in prices.
Both the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Airs are available to buy now, with various upgrade options.
