TECHNOLOGY

New MacBook Air: Is the M4 Worth the Upgrade?

Thu Mar 06 2025
The latest MacBook Air, powered by the M4 chip, is finally out. Apple fans are buzzing about the new features and improvements. But is it worth the upgrade? Let's dive in. First, let's talk about the price. Apple has made a smart move by dropping the price of the new M4 MacBook Air by $100. The 13-inch model now starts at $999, and the 15-inch model at $1, 199. This price cut makes the new MacBook Air more appealing, especially for those who were holding out for a better deal. The M4 chip is the star of the show. It's faster and more efficient than the M3 chip. Apple claims the M4 is up to twice as fast as the M1 chip in single-core tests. But how does it compare to the M3? Well, in single-core tests, the M4 scored 3, 807, while the M3 scored 3, 138. In multi-core tests, the difference is even more noticeable: 15, 114 for the M4 and 12, 018 for the M3. So, if you're into heavy multitasking or gaming, the M4 is definitely worth considering. The new MacBook Air also comes with a 12-megapixel webcam, which is a step up from the 1080p camera in the M3 model. The webcam now includes Center Stage technology, which keeps you in the frame as you move around. This is a handy feature for video calls and online meetings. The design of the new MacBook Air is mostly the same as the M3 model. But there's a new color option: Sky Blue. It's a fresh change from the usual Midnight, Starlight, and Silver. The display size and resolution remain the same, but the new model supports two external monitors in addition to the built-in display. This is a big plus for anyone who needs a multi-screen setup. The battery life is another important factor. Apple claims that both the 13-inch and 15-inch models will last up to 18 hours on a single charge. This is the same as the M3 model, so don't expect any major changes there. So, should you upgrade? If you have the M3 model, it might not be worth it. But if you're using an older model, the M4 MacBook Air is a solid choice. The price cut, improved performance, and new features make it a tempting upgrade. Just think about what you need and what you're willing to spend.

questions

    Will the new Center Stage feature in the M4 MacBook Air's webcam significantly enhance video call experiences?
    Could the M4 MacBook Air's improved performance be a result of Apple secretly using the same chipset as the M3 but with a different name?
    How does the M4 MacBook Air's ability to support two external monitors impact productivity compared to the M3 model?

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