MacBook Air Models Since 2018
2018 MacBook Air
The 2018 MacBook Air featured a thinner, tapered “wedge” design, a 13.3-inch Retina display, an Intel Core i5 processor with up to a 4-core CPU, Intel UHD Graphics 617, up to 16GB memory, and up to 1.5TB storage. Other notable features include a Butterfly Keyboard, 400 nits brightness, sRGB color gamut, a 720p FaceTime HD camera, stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, 802.11ac Wi‑Fi 6, Bluetooth 4.2, and up to a 12-hour battery life. The 2018 model was available in Silver, Space Gray, and Gold and weighed 1.25 kg (2.75 pounds).
2020 MacBook Air
In 2020, Apple released an updated MacBook Air with an Intel Core i7 processor option and improved graphics. The most notable change in this model was the replacement of the Butterfly Keyboard with the Magic Keyboard, offering better typing comfort and reliability. Other specifications remained similar to the 2018 model, maintaining its form factor, display, and connectivity options.
M1 MacBook Air (
The M1 MacBook Air, released in late 2020, marked a significant shift for Apple as it introduced the custom-designed Apple M1 chip, replacing Intel processors. This change brought an 8-core CPU, improved performance, and increased power efficiency, allowing up to 20 hours of battery life. The M1 model also supported up to 16GB of unified memory, making it a considerable upgrade from the previous Intel-based models.
M2 MacBook Air (
Apple launched the M2 MacBook Air in 2022, bringing a redesigned chassis and a choice between 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch Liquid Retina displays. The M2 chip offered performance improvements over the M1, with up to 24GB of unified memory for enhanced multitasking capabilities. Other notable updates included a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a MagSafe 3 charging connector, fast-charging support, and improved speakers. The overall package provided a more refined and powerful device for users seeking to upgrade from earlier models.
Upgrading from Older Models
2018 or 2020 Intel Users
For those using a 2018 or 2020 Intel MacBook Air, upgrading to the M1 or M2 MacBook Air models offers considerable benefits in terms of performance, battery life, and efficiency. Apple’s M1 and M2 chips provide a significant boost in processing power, making these newer devices ideal for handling more demanding tasks while still keeping battery life in check. Moreover, the M2 model also features an updated design, brighter display, and better webcam than the previous Intel versions, making the upgrade highly worthwhile.
M1 Users
While the M1 MacBook Air is already a solid device, users still stand to benefit from upgrading to the M2 model. The M2 offers a new design, larger and brighter display options, faster unified memory, an improved 1080p FaceTime HD camera, the addition of MagSafe 3, and other enhancements. Although the performance boost between the M1 and M2 may not be as pronounced for some users, the overall experience and added features make the M2 MacBook Air a compelling upgrade option.
Pricing
M1 MacBook Air
The M1 MacBook Air has a starting price of $999, making it a relatively affordable option for those looking to upgrade their laptop experience. It’s worth noting that it can be found for even lower prices via education pricing and third-party retailers, offering better value for the money.
M2 13-inch MacBook Air
Starting at just $1,099, the M2 13-inch MacBook Air offers a host of improvements and upgrades over the M1 model for a small price difference. With its sleek design, larger and brighter display, faster memory, better camera, and other enhancements, upgrading to the M2 model becomes a compelling option for users seeking the latest technology.
M2 15-inch MacBook Air
For those who desire more screen real estate, the M2 15-inch MacBook Air starts at $1,299. This model carries all the benefits of the 13-inch version, providing an even larger display for an enhanced viewing and working experience. While it does come at an increased cost, the additional features and display size might make it the perfect choice for some users.
Future Releases
Rumored M3 MacBook Air in 2024
While the M2 MacBook Air models offer significant upgrades and improvements over previous generations, Apple is reportedly working on even more advanced MacBook Air devices for the future. Rumors suggest that an M3 MacBook Air could be released in 2024, sporting substantial performance and efficiency enhancements. This potential new model could be an enticing option for users looking to upgrade their laptops further down the line, promising another leap in technological advancements from Apple.
