Apple has released its latest line of MacBook Air models featuring the new M3 chip, marking a significant shift from the previous Intel-based MacBook Pro. The transition has revealed a noticeable difference in performance and productivity, showcasing impressive gains for users.
The M3 chip, an improvement over the M2, offers modest overall differences but sees a notable boost in graphics performance. The base 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 chip delivers comparable performance to the M3 MacBook Air, making it a viable option for users.
The new M3 Air models come with similar features and design elements as the M2 models, with some minor additions such as Wi-Fi 6E support and the ability to connect two external displays. Starting at $1,099 for the 13-inch version and $1,299 for the 15-inch version, the M3 Air models also offer options to upgrade memory and storage.
The M3 MacBook Air is ideal for creators or those seeking a portable design with impressive performance gains. It outperformed the Intel-based MacBook Pro in various benchmark tests, showcasing its capabilities in tasks such as STEM work, design work, video rendering, and photo editing.
Although the battery life of the new models has not been fully tested yet, they are expected to run close to Apple’s claimed 18 hours. The M3 MacBook Air is recommended for users looking to upgrade from an older MacBook Air for improved performance and productivity.
Overall, the transition to the M3 chip in the MacBook Air brings significant improvements in performance and functionality, making it a compelling option for users in need of a reliable and powerful laptop for their everyday tasks.