The new MacBook Air, powered by the M4 chip, is hitting shelves this Wednesday, and the first reviews are trickling in. While it might seem like a minor refresh on paper, the M4 MacBook Air brings a few noteworthy enhancements to the table. Let's dive into what the critics are saying.
Don't let the "spec-bump" label fool you. The M4 MacBook Air offers more than just a faster processor:
But the real question is: do these changes add up to a compelling upgrade?
We already knew the M4 chip offered a performance boost, but now we have real-world impressions. The consensus? It's a significant leap.
The M4 chip offers up to 30% faster multi-core CPU performance compared to the M3 chip.
This isn't just marketing fluff; Geekbench 6 results confirmed this performance increase before the review embargo even lifted. This means snappier performance for everything from everyday tasks to demanding creative workflows.
Engadget's Devindra Hardawar weighs in on the camera improvements:
The leap to a 12-megapixel Center Stage camera isn't exactly Earth-shattering, but I appreciated having a slightly better picture during video calls. I typically turn off the actual Center Stage feature on Macs, but I'm sure some will appreciate its ability to track you around a room. The new camera also supports Desk View, which projects a slightly skewed view of the area directly in front of the MacBook Air.
While not revolutionary, the improved camera offers a noticeable quality-of-life improvement, especially for frequent video callers. The inclusion of Desk View is a bonus for those who need to showcase items on their desk during calls.
Jason Snell of Six Colors highlights the significance of the new entry-level price:
That's why perhaps the most important change in the M4 MacBook Air is its base configuration, which starts at $999. When Apple introduced a winning new flat-with-rounded-corners Air design in 2022, it had to keep selling older models in order to get down under a thousand dollars. Three years later, Apple is finally able to sell a brand-new Air—with a generous 16GB of unified memory—at that important price.
The $999 price point, coupled with a generous 16GB of RAM, makes the M4 MacBook Air an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Is Apple signaling a new era of value?
Ars Technica's Andrew Cunningham shares his thoughts on the new color option:
The laptop comes in four finishes—the traditional silver, the gold-ish Starlight, Midnight (still a bit smudge-prone), and a new Sky Blue option that replaces Space Gray. I like Sky Blue, and it's probably my favorite of the three light-colored options, though I do wish it was more saturated. It's similar in hue to the blue finish Microsoft offers for its Surface devices, but I prefer Microsoft's version because it's more noticeably blue.
While the Sky Blue is a welcome addition, some reviewers, including Cunningham, feel it could be bolder and more vibrant. Is it a subtle elegance or a case of playing it too safe?
The M4 MacBook Air appears to be a solid upgrade, offering a compelling blend of performance, features, and value. The improved camera, dual display support, and lower price point (in the US) are all welcome additions. However, the significance of the upgrade will depend on your individual needs and current setup.
Consider upgrading if:
You might be able to wait if:
Ultimately, the decision is yours. But one thing is clear: the M4 MacBook Air is a strong contender in the ultraportable laptop market.