Although on the outside they are very similar, when you examine them closely you realize that there are differences between a MacBook Air and a MacBook Pro. However, both have the reputation of being two laptops of excellent quality and functionality, which are in the top of the best laptops on the market. So which one to choose?
Choosing between a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro is not an easy task. Thus, In this post we will review the most outstanding technical specifications of each model, so that you have a clear idea of which one to choose according to your needs.
Processor
If you decide on a MacBook Air you will enjoy great performance thanks to its M1 or M2 chip. However, the 13″ MacBook Pro also has an integrated M2 chip. The ones that really stand out in this section are the 14″ and 16″ MacBook Pro, since they have an Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max chip, which gives them maximum speed and power to perform all kinds of tasks.
Screen
Both models ensure excellent screen quality with sizes that do not vary too much between 13,6 and 16”. In addition, their high resolutions and pixel density mean they can offer an image quality that is unmatched some with models of other brands
However, you should know that the 2” MacBook Air M13,6 has a 500 nit display, 100 nits brighter than other M1 Air variants. Also, it offers a clearer image than the MacBook Pros, even though they all come with a P3 wide color gamut which makes images look really great.
But don't worry too much about glare if you're going to be using the computer indoors, as both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro screens are sufficient. However, if you plan to use it mainly outdoors, then you should go with a MacBook Pro, as its 1600 nits makes it perfect for bright light conditions.
Memory and storage
The MacBook Air with the M1 chip offers 8 GB and 16 GB RAM, while those with the M2 chip have up to 24 GB of RAM. For his part, The MacBook Pro has a memory that goes from 16, 32 and up to 64 GB.
Regarding storage, the 14″ and 16″ MacBook Pro comes in 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB options, while the MacBook Air goes from 256 GB to 2 TB. The decision on which model to choose will depend on how much use you will give it, but the more memory and storage the experience and performance will be much better.
Battery
MacBook Air with M1 and M2 chip have a battery life of 15 hours of wireless web browsing, and up to 18 of video playback. While the 14″ MacBook Pro provides up to 11 hours of wireless web browsing and 17 hours of video playback.
For its part, 16″ MacBook Pro offers 14 hours of wireless web browsing and 21 hours of video playback.
Price
In terms of pricing, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are also very evenly matched. Nevertheless, the MacBook Air is positioned a little below the Pro, despite the fact that it has a better design and improvements.
The MacBook Air with M1 starts at $999, while the MacBook Pro starts at $1299. A difference of $300 that, without a significant decrease in performance, makes the MacBook Air the most convenient option.
Conclusion: Which Mac should you buy?
Having analyzed the main differences between MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, we can conclude that both models are good options compared to other laptops available. So no matter what decision you make, you'll end up making a good choice.
However, If you don't need exaggerated power or want to save money, it would be advisable to buy a MacBook Air with an M1 chip..