Apple is preparing to launch a new MacBook Air, and it looks like it will be faster and better than before. After announcing the iPhone 16e, Apple is now focusing on its laptops. Many believe the company will soon release a MacBook Air with its latest M4 chip.
Recent online test results show that the launch is coming soon, and they give us an idea of how well the new laptop will perform.
Faster Performance with the M4 Chip
The upcoming MacBook Air, expected to be the first with Apple’s M4 chip, was tested using Geekbench, a tool that measures computer performance. The test results show two models: one believed to be the 13-inch version (“Mac 16,2”) and another likely to be the 15-inch version (“Mac 16,3”).
These tests show that the new MacBook Air is much faster than the current M3 version. The laptop being tested has a 10-core M4 chip, but Apple may also release 8-core and 9-core versions at a lower price. Apple usually keeps the starting price for the MacBook Air at $999, so a less powerful version might help keep the cost down.
Cooling and Speed Differences
As expected, the new MacBook Air performs better than the older M3 model. However, the MacBook Pro with the M4 chip will likely be even faster. This is because the MacBook Pro has a built-in cooling fan, which helps the chip run at high speeds for a longer time without overheating. The MacBook Air, which does not have a fan, may slow down if it gets too hot.
One of the biggest improvements in the new MacBook Air is its graphics performance. Tests suggest that it will be more than 30% better than before, making it a great option for people who need good graphics for work or entertainment. However, it is still unclear whether the laptop can keep up this level of performance without overheating.
Should You Buy the MacBook Air M4?
Apple first introduced the M4 chip in May 2024 with the iPad Pro. Later in November 2024, the more powerful M4 Pro and M4 Max chips were added to the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini. Now, almost a year later, Apple is bringing the M4 to the MacBook Air.
Apple updates its chips nearly every year, so this new MacBook Air may only be the latest model for a short time before Apple releases the M5. This might happen at the company’s Worldwide Developer Conference in mid-2025.
Still, the MacBook Air is a great choice for most users. While professionals who do video editing, design, or software development may prefer the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air has more than enough power for everyday tasks. Even if it is not the newest for long, Apple’s chips still offer great performance, making the MacBook Air a reliable and affordable laptop.
