MacBook Air buying guide: Should you go for latest Air M4 model or buy MacBook Air M1, MacBook Air M2 and save money
Apple’s MacBook Air has consistently remained one of the most popular laptops thanks to its slim design, reliable performance, and long battery life. With the arrival of the MacBook Air powered by the M4 chip, many potential buyers are faced with a common question: should they pick the latest model or save some money by opting for the older generation? Here’s a breakdown in five key points to help you decide.
Performance and everyday use The new MacBook Air with the M4 chip offers a noticeable leap in performance compared to the M2 or M3 versions. Tasks such as video editing, multitasking with demanding apps, or compiling large code projects benefit the most from the newer chip. However, for light to moderate use—such as web browsing, office apps, streaming, and photo editing—the older Air models are still more than capable. If your work depends on faster processing and longevity of performance, the M4 will serve you better. But if your usage is basic, the savings from an older model can outweigh the performance jump.
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Software support and longevity One big advantage of going for the M4 model is future-proofing. Apple typically provides macOS updates and software support for many years, but the newer the chip, the longer the support window. This means an M4 Air will likely continue to receive updates for a few years beyond what the M2 or even M3 models get. If you plan to keep your laptop for a long stretch—say five to seven years—then the M4 is a safer bet. On the other hand, if you tend to upgrade laptops every three to four years, an older model may still cover your needs without issues.
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Price and deals available Price is where older Air models shine. Retailers often cut prices significantly when new versions arrive, and you may even find student discounts, exchange offers, or refurbished units for further savings. The M4 Air comes at a premium, and unless you truly need the latest features, buying last year’s model can free up money for accessories like external storage or a good monitor. The key is comparing the price difference with your actual usage—if the gap is large and performance needs are light, the older model makes financial sense.
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Battery life and efficiency Apple’s silicon has always been praised for efficiency, and the M4 takes it a step further. Expect slightly longer battery life and better sustained performance under load compared to the M2 or M3 Air. That said, the difference is incremental rather than drastic. Both newer and older Air models still comfortably deliver all-day usage, so battery life alone should not be the deciding factor unless you specifically need the best endurance possible.
Which one should you buy If you want the best possible performance and longest software support, the MacBook Air M4 is worth the investment. But if your needs are everyday productivity, media consumption, and occasional creative work, the older Air models can save you a significant amount of money without compromising too much on experience. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you value cutting-edge performance or cost savings.
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