Features & Benefits
How to Choose Between the MacBook Air M1 and M2

The new MacBook Air m1 and m2 are both great options for anyone in the market for a new MacBook Air. But how do you choose between the two? In this blog post, we’ll compare the prices, configurations, design, performance, and battery life of the two models to help you make your decision.
MacBook Air M1 vs M2: Which one should you choose?
The new MacBook Air M1 and M2 chips are both powerful and efficient, but there are some key differences to consider when choosing which one to buy.
The M1 is faster and more energy-efficient than the M2, but it doesn’t have as many features. The M2 is more expensive and has more features, but it’s not as fast or energy-efficient as the M1.
Prices and Configurations
The new MacBook Air m1 starts at $999 for the 7-core GPU model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. The 8-core GPU model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage starts at $1,249. The top-of-the-line 8-core GPU model with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage starts at $1,599.
The new MacBook Air m2 starts at $1,199 for the 8-core GPU model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The top-of-the-line 8-core GPU model with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage starts at $1,799.
Both models are available in Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.
The design
The new MacBook Air m1 features an all-new design that is thinner and lighter than the previous generation. It has a smaller footprint and weighs just 2.8 pounds (1.29 kg). The display bezels have been reduced by 50% for a more immersive experience.
The new MacBook Air m2 features an updated design that is also thinner and lighter than the previous generation. It has a smaller footprint and weighs just 2.9 pounds (1.32 kg). The display bezels have been reduced by 50% for a more immersive experience.
Performance
The new MacBook Air m1 is powered by the Apple M1 chip which is a 7nm+ processor with up to 8 cores (4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores). It has up to 16GB of unified memory and can deliver up to 3x faster CPU performance than the previous generation MacBook Air.*
*Based on Geekbench 5 scores comparing the M1 chip to the Intel Core i7 processor in the 13″ MacBook Pro (2020).
The new MacBook Air m2 is powered by the Intel Core i5 processor which is a 10th generation processor with up to 4 cores (4 performance cores). It has up to 16GB of memory and can deliver up to 2x faster CPU performance than the previous generation MacBook Air.*
*Based on Geekbench 5 scores comparing the Intel Core i5 processor in the 13″ MacBook Pro (2020) to the Intel Core i7 processor in the 13″ MacBook Pro (2019).
Both models are available with up to 16GB of RAM and 1.5TB of storage.
Battery life
The new MacBook Air m1 features a built-in 49.9 Watt-hour lithium-polymer battery that delivers up to 18 hours of wireless web browsing and up to 20 hours of movie playback.
The new MacBook Air m2 features a built-in 54 Watt-hour lithium-polymer battery that delivers up to 12 hours of wireless web browsing and up to 13 hours of movie playback.
Battery life varies by use and configuration. See Apple’s website for more details.
Both models come with a 61W USB-C Power Adapter and an integrated power cord for charging the battery.
The verdict
So, which one should you choose? If you’re looking for the best performance, the new MacBook Air m1 is the clear choice. If you’re looking for the best value, the new MacBook Air m2 is the better option.
Don’t miss: 10 Ways to Speed Up Your Mac
How to choose the right MacBook Air for you.
There are three different MacBook Air models: the 11-inch, 13-inch, and 15-inch. Each one has different specs and features, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
If you’re looking for a MacBook Air that’s lightweight and portable, the 11-inch model is the way to go. It has a smaller screen and less powerful specs than the other two models, but it’s still a great machine for everyday use.
The 13-inch MacBook Air is the most popular model. It’s a great all-around machine that strikes a good balance between power and portability.
If you need a powerful MacBook Air for things like video editing or gaming, the 15-inch model is the best choice. It has a large screen and powerful specs, but it’s not as portable as the other two models.
Consider your needs
The first step in choosing the right MacBook Air for you is to consider your needs. What are you looking for in a laptop? Do you need a powerful machine for video editing or gaming?
Or are you looking for a simple, lightweight device for browsing the web and checking email? Once you know what you need, it will be easier to narrow down your choices.
Determine your budget
The next step is to determine your budget. How much can you afford to spend on a new laptop? Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the model, configuration, and retailer.
It’s important to compare prices and find the best deal before making your purchase.
Compare models and configurations
Once you’ve considered your needs and determined your budget, it’s time to compare models and configurations. There are three main MacBook Air models: the M1, M2, and Pro.
Each model has different specs and features, so it’s important to compare them side-by-side to see which one is right for you.
For example, the M1 model is cheaper than the M2 but doesn’t have as many features. The Pro model is more expensive but has more powerful specs.
Read reviews
Another important step in choosing the right MacBook Air is to read reviews from trusted sources. This will help you get an idea of how each model performs in real-world scenarios.
Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded view of each laptop.
Make your decision
After considering your needs, budget, and the available models, it’s time to make your decision. Choose the MacBook Air that best meets your needs and fits your budget.
Remember, you can always upgrade to a more powerful model later if you find that you need more power than what the M1 or M2 offers.
Don’t miss: Comparing the Features of the MacBook Pro M1 and M2
Conclusion
The new MacBook Air m1 and m2 offer different benefits that may appeal to different users. When deciding which one to choose, consider your needs and budget, compare models and configurations, and read reviews to help you make the best decision for you.
