Aside from a new color, the M4 MacBook Air looks a whole lot like last year’s model. And we’ve got the hands-on experience and pictures to prove it.
Design and Display
The M4 MacBook Air looks similar to last year’s model, with only a new color option, sky blue, replacing space gray. The new blue is a pale metallic finish that is close to silver, but not quite blue enough. Apple should consider renaming it "non-committal blue".
Performance and Features
The M4 MacBook Air has five main updates, including a similar M4 chip to the base 14-inch MacBook Pro, a 10-core CPU and 8-core GPU. It also features the 12-megapixel Center Stage webcam, which is wider and can track users within the frame. Additionally, the Air now allows users to use two external monitors and keep the lid open, effectively creating a triple-monitor setup.
Color Options
The MacBook Air is available in four color options: sky blue, starlight, silver, and midnight. The new blue is a pale metallic finish that is close to silver, but not quite blue enough. Apple should consider renaming it "non-committal blue".
Pricing and Availability
The good news is that the M4 MacBook Air starts at a lower price, with the 13-inch model starting at $999 and the 15-inch model starting at $1,199. This is a return to form for the 13-inch model, which used to start at this price before an increase during the M2 generation.
Mac Studio M4 Max and M3 Ultra
In addition to our hands-on with the MacBook Air, we also got our first look at the new Mac Studio duo, one with the M4 Max chip and one with a new, all-out M3 Ultra. The Studios don’t look any different, but the changes inside are major for hardcore pros doing heavy-duty creative work or local AI stuff.
Conclusion
The M4 MacBook Air is a subtle upgrade with a new color option and improved performance. While it may not be a revolutionary update, the lower starting price makes it a more attractive option for those in the market for a new laptop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the new color option for the MacBook Air?
A: The new color option is sky blue, a pale metallic finish that is close to silver, but not quite blue enough.
Q: What are the key features of the M4 MacBook Air?
A: The M4 MacBook Air features a similar M4 chip to the base 14-inch MacBook Pro, a 10-core CPU and 8-core GPU, a 12-megapixel Center Stage webcam, and the ability to use two external monitors and keep the lid open.
Q: What are the price options for the M4 MacBook Air?
A: The 13-inch model starts at $999, and the 15-inch model starts at $1,199.
Q: Are the Mac Studio M4 Max and M3 Ultra available?
A: Yes, the Mac Studio duo is available, with one featuring the M4 Max chip and one featuring the new M3 Ultra chip.
