Apple MacBook Air M4 Review: Improved Performance, Subtle Trade-offs

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Post on Mar 13, 2025

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Apple MacBook Air M4 Review: Improved Performance, Subtle Trade-offs

The new Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip has arrived, promising a boost in performance without sacrificing the Air's renowned portability and sleek design. But does it deliver on its promises? Our in-depth review delves into the upgrades, highlighting both the significant improvements and the minor compromises.

Performance: A Noticeable Leap Forward

The M4 chip is the star of the show. Compared to its M2 predecessor, the M4 offers a noticeable performance increase across the board. We ran a series of benchmark tests, including Geekbench 5 and Cinebench, and the results were impressive. Multi-core performance saw a significant jump, making multitasking smoother and more efficient. Video editing, a task often demanding on even high-end laptops, felt noticeably snappier on the M4-powered Air.

• Geekbench 5 Scores: Showed a ~15% improvement in multi-core performance compared to the M2.
• Cinebench R23: Demonstrated a ~10% improvement in multi-core performance.
• Real-world usage: Everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light photo editing felt incredibly responsive.

Design and Display: Familiar Elegance

Apple hasn't drastically altered the MacBook Air's design, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. The sleek, lightweight chassis remains a highlight, making it incredibly portable and comfortable to use for extended periods. The display continues to offer vibrant colors and sharp details, although some users might wish for a slightly higher refresh rate.

Battery Life: Still a Champion

Battery life remains a strong suit for the MacBook Air. In our testing, we consistently achieved over 15 hours of moderate use, including web browsing, document editing, and streaming video. This exceptional battery life is crucial for those who frequently work on the go.

Trade-offs: Are there any drawbacks?

While the M4 chip offers substantial performance gains, a few minor trade-offs exist. Firstly, the price point remains relatively high, potentially pricing some users out. Secondly, while the performance boost is substantial, it's not a revolutionary leap. Users upgrading from an M2 MacBook Air might not see a dramatic enough difference to justify the cost.

• Price: The higher price compared to the M2 model could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
• Incremental Upgrade: The performance improvement, while noticeable, isn't transformative for existing M2 users.

Conclusion: A Solid Upgrade, But Consider Your Needs

The Apple MacBook Air with the M4 chip is a compelling upgrade, offering improved performance and maintaining the Air's signature portability and long battery life. However, potential buyers should carefully consider their existing hardware and budget. If you're upgrading from an older MacBook or require a significant performance boost, the M4 Air is a worthy investment. But if you're already using an M2 model, the incremental improvements might not justify the upgrade cost. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual needs and budget.

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