MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison: The “MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison?” decision is more difficult than ever for users of Apple laptops as 2024 gets underway. The 13.3, 13.6, and 15.3-inch MacBook Airs, as well as the 14.2 and 16.2-inch MacBook Pro models, are the current models available for purchase.
The Apple M2 chipset powers the most expensive models in the Air family, whereas the Apple M3, M3 Pro, or M3 Max powers the most recent MacBook Pro 14 and 16. One of the key differences between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro is that the latter only comes with the more potent “Pro” or “Max” chipsets. For now,
the only MacBook Pro 14 model with a regular M3 processor is the base model. If you’re debating between the MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison , just remember that there are no incorrect answers—the important thing to remember is to choose the one that best suits your needs. All of the current MacBook models are fantastic, winning our Editor’s Choice award.
Nevertheless, don’t worry—we’ve reviewed them all. Just keep reading, and we’ll compare features, pricing, battery life, and other factors to help you determine which Apple laptop is best for you. We’ll determine at the end of this tutorial whether MacBook model is better value for your hard-earned money—the MacBook Air or MacBook Pro.
What’s the difference between the MacBook Pro and Air?
There are a ton of distinctions between the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, despite popular belief. The cost and processing capacity of the two are where they diverge most. More money will be spent on the most economical MacBook Pro with an M2 chip than on the most economical Air with an M2 chip. But the Pro’s improved internals under the hood give it additional power.
Compared to the Air models, the M3 MacBook Pro models have more unified memory, better battery life, additional connectors (like HDMI and SD card), and, in general, a more advanced GPU and CPU. The MacBook Pro is available in two display sizes: 14-inch and 16-inch.
The core computer components of the M3 MacBook Pro have been upgraded for increased performance and efficiency. The M3 family consists of three chips: M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max. The media engines of the M3 models have been enhanced to better manage video playback. The base M2 and M3 chips may support the same amount of unified memory, while the M3 chips have the same number of CPU, GPU, and neural engine cores as the M2 chips.
You’re not drastically behind on computer power if you recently switched from an M2 MacBook Pro, as Apple claims that the M3 chips are 15% quicker than the M2 chips.
If you’re on the market for a new 13-inch MacBook Pro, be aware that Apple stopped making them after the new 14-inch MacBook Pro was introduced. The 13-inch MacBook Pro is no longer available for purchase on Apple’s website. Additionally, Apple stopped selling the M2 Pro and M2 Max-equipped 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.
Moreover: Top-tier specifications on an M3 MacBook Pro? You’ll be shocked at how much it costs less than $10,000.
Apple’s latest M3 Pro and M3 Max chips are compatible with the 14-inch and 16-inch Pro models, and a 14-inch Pro model with the standard M3 chip is also available for purchase. Be aware that the only chips you can get for the 16-inch Pro if you’re going big are the M3 Max or M3 Pro chips, which will up the cost.
The enhanced chipsets are even more potent than the 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air models’ stock M2 CPUs. The 14-inch and 16-inch Pro can now edit professional-quality video (up to 8K), render 3D art, create music, and edit high-resolution pictures in Adobe Photoshop thanks to these updated CPUs.
But, the price of the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro increases with the amount of power you desire. Starting at $1,599, the 14-inch Pro may cost up to $3,199 when upgraded with a faster processor and more internal storage. The 16-inch Pro has an initial price of $2,499 and can cost up to $3,999 with internal improvements.
If you’ve made up your mind to get a MacBook Pro and would want some additional help choosing which model is ideal for you, have a look at ZDNET’s M3 MacBook Pro buying guide.
Although the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air only have Apple’s entry-level M2 CPU installed, the Air is still a very powerful laptop. Because it lacks some internal gear, including a cooling fan and connectors for an SD card and HDMI, the MacBook Air is lighter and thinner than the MacBook Pro. Rather, Apple is relying on the performance of its CPUs to maintain stable and effective heat dissipation in the laptops.
Review: Although I’m not a fan of the 15-inch MacBook Air, I can’t suggest it enough.
Naturally, a MacBook Air with fewer technology costs less money, but you can still make a few improvements. There are two M2 chip variants available for the 13-inch Air, with the enhanced base M2 chip having two more GPU cores than the other. With an upgraded GPU, your computer can handle graphics more effectively, resulting in faster and more fluid 4K video editing.
Since the 15-inch Air already has the M2 CPU with a 10-core GPU, the update is part of the starting price.
Starting at $1,099, the 13-inch Air may be purchased for $2,399 if the internal storage and GPU are increased to their maximum capacity. For additional storage, the 15-inch Air costs $2,499, but it starts at $1,299 as well. Apple continues to sell the M1-powered MacBook Air for $999 for customers that are on a more limited budget or don’t need a lot of processing power.
For additional assistance in selecting the ideal MacBook Air, view ZDNET’s M2 MacBook Air buying guide if you’re certain you want one.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison: SPECS COMPARED
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | Best for Most | Next Best Option | Best big screen value | For power users | For heavy users that require a big screen |
| Row 1 – Cell 0 | MacBook Air 13 (M1) | MacBook Air 13 (M2) | MacBook Air 15 (M2) | MacBook Pro 14-inch | MacBook Pro 16-inch |
| Price | $999 | $1,099 | $1,299 | $1,999 (starting) | $2,499 |
| CPU | M1 | M2 | M2 | M3, M3 Pro or M3 Max | M3 Pro or M3 Max |
| RAM | Up to 16GB | Up to 24GB | Up to 24GB | Up to 128GB | up to 128GB |
| Display | 13.3 inches (2560 x 1664) | 13.6 inches (2560 x 1600) | 15.3 inches (2880 x 1864) | 14.2 inches (3024 x 1964), 120Hz | 16.2 inches (3456 x 2234), 120Hz |
| Ports | 2 Thunderbolt 3, headphone | 2 Thunderbolt 3, headphone | 2 Thunderbolt 3/USB4, headphone | 3 Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, SDXC card, headphone | 4 Thunderbolt 3, headphone |
| Graphics | M1 | M2 | M2 | M3, M3 Pro or M3 Max | M3 Pro or M3 Max |
| Storage | up to 2TB | up to 2TB | Up to 2TB | Up to 8TB | up to 8TB |
| Battery Life (hrs) | 14:41 (tested) | 14:06 (tested) | 14:59 (tested) | 17:16 (tested) | 18:05 (tested) |
| Security | Touch ID | Touch ID | Touch ID | Touch ID | Touch ID |
| Size | 12 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches | 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches | 13.40 x 9.53 x 0.45 inches | 12.3 x 8.7 x 0.6 inches | 14 x 9.8 x 0.66 inches |
| Weight | 2.8 pounds | 2.7 pounds | 3.3 pounds | 3.5 pounds | 4.8 pounds |
Which MacBook is right for you?
How you imagine yourself using the laptops and how display size and weight fit into that picture will determine the answer in large part. A dependable computer is an investment; you don’t want to overpay for a laptop that is overkill, but you also don’t want to purchase a machine that isn’t powerful enough for your requirements.
In terms of MacBooks, a MacBook Pro would be the best option if you work as a graphic designer, music producer, professional photographer, videographer, 3D artist, or developer of iOS games and apps. The Pro versions don’t lag, overheat, or slow down much while dealing with heavy graphics processing and additional background apps.
A MacBook Air can be a better option if you are a student or someone who works mostly in Google Suite or Microsoft Office Suite. The Air variant of the MacBook is not only capable of handling chores like casual internet browsing, watching YouTube or Netflix, responding to emails, and FaceTime with friends, but it also won’t be too heavy for you to carry anywhere.
A MacBook, in any model, is a great choice for anyone looking to add to their personal Apple environment with a computer that pairs easily with other items like AirPods and the iPhone. For instance, handoff makes it simple to switch between FaceTime chats on your MacBook and iPhone, and it also gives your MacBook easy access to your iPhone’s contacts, files, and images.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison : DISPLAY
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | Screen |
| M1 MacBook Air | 13.3 inches (2560 x 1600) |
| M2 MacBook Air | 13.6 inches (2560 x 1664) |
| M2 MacBook Pro 14-inch | 14.2 inches (3024 x 1964) mini-LED |
| M2 MacBook Pro 16-inch | 16.2 inches (3456 x 2234) mini-LED |
| M3 MacBook Pro 14-inch | 14.2 inches (3024 x 1964) mini-LED |
| M3 MacBook Pro 16-inch | 16.2 inches (3456 x 2234) mini-LED |
Both the 13-inch MacBook Pro and MacBook Air have Retina displays that are vibrant and crisp, but there’s one more incentive to choose the Pro model: brightness.
The MacBook Air (M1) has a maximum brightness of 365.8 nits, according to our lab test results, while the M1 MacBook Pro (13-inch) has an even higher maximum brightness of 434.8 nits. In our testing, the MacBook Air 2022 reached 489 nits of normal brightness, compared to 474.6 nits for the M2 MacBook Pro.
Nonetheless, the M1 laptops are more alike in terms of color output. Our colorimeter gave the Air (M1) a 114.3% sRGB rating, which is marginally better than the M1 13-inch Pro’s rating of 110.6%. The subsequent models are equally, if not more, superior.
The Liquid Retina XDR screens on the MacBook Pros 2021 and 2023 elevate the standard of display quality to a new height. Their mini-LED technology, which also produces better colors and contrast, allows them to achieve a brightness rating of 1,000 nits, and our testing verifies that they really reach that bright (at least when watching HDR content). A 120Hz ProMotion display is also included for improved performance.
If you’re a sucker for the greatest display your MacBook can offer, you might want to shell out the cash for the new M3 MacBook Pro, which according to Apple offers a 20% increase in brightness over the M2 model while processing SDR content.
14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros are the winners.
MACBOOK AIR VS MACBOOK PRO : KEYBOARD
Apple’s Magic Keyboard, which offers excellent tactile performance and comfort, is compatible with any MacBook that is available for purchase.
The absence of a Touch Bar on the MacBook Air and the replacement of the Touch Bar with a separate function row of physical keys on the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models may be telling.
In this category, the MacBook Pro wins out because, in the end, its full-sized function keys are much easier to type on than the MacBook Air’s half-sized ones.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison : PERFORMANCE
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | CPU | GPU | RAM |
| M1 MacBook Air | Apple M1 (8-core) | Eight-core integrated GPU | Seven-core integrated M1 GPU | 8GB to 16GB |
| M2 MacBook Air | Apple M2 (8-core) | Integrated 8-core M2 CPU | Integrated 8-core GPU | 8GB to 24GB |
| M2 MacBook Pro 14-inch | M2 Pro/Max Up to 12-core CPU | Up to 38-core GPU | Up to 38-core GPU | 16GB to 96GB |
| M2 MacBook Pro 16-inch | M2 Pro/Max Up to 12-core CPU | Up to 38-core GPU | 16GB to 96GB |
| M3 MacBook Pro 14-inch | |||
| M3 MacBook Pro 16-inch | M3 (8 core), M3 Pro (12 cores maximum), and M3 Max (16 cores maximum) | M3 (10 core), M3 Pro (Up to 18 cores), M3 Max (Up to 40 cores) | M3 (8GB to 24GB), M3 Pro (18GB to 96GB), M3 Max (48GB to 128GB) |
Even with their aging M1 processor, Apple’s MacBook Air and Pro are still rather quick for online browsing and light work. The MacBook Air (M1, 16GB RAM) scored 5,962 on the multi-core CPU benchmark Geekbench 5, while the MacBook Pro (M1, 16GB RAM) got a somewhat comparable 5,925.
However, the more modern MacBook Pros from 2023 destroyed them both. M2-powered Pro and Max processors scored exceptionally well on the identical Geekbench 5 benchmark test, ranging from 14,939 to 15,044.
As of this writing, the M3 MacBook Pro has not yet been released, so we haven’t had an opportunity to subject it to our customary comprehensive review testing. Though less impressively, only 10% quicker than the M2 Pro, Apple claims that the new M3 chip is up to 40% faster than the M1 Pro.
The M1 MacBook Pro beat the Air’s time of 9:15 in the Handbrake video transcoding test, which converted a 4K video to 1080p. The M1 MacBook Pro finished in 7:44. The larger MacBook Pros prevailed over both, with the 14-inch model from 2021 transcoding in 4:51 seconds and the 16-inch model in 4:48. With their M2 Pro and Max CPUs,
the more recent 2023 models performed even better, finishing the task in under 4 minutes (4:04). Even while the M2 MacBook Pro isn’t as quick, it still produced amazing results—transcoding a video in 6:51. With a time of 7:52, the MacBook Air 2022 trailed the latter by a narrow margin.
BlackMagic SSD Disk Speed Test read rates for the M1 Air’s SSD are remarkable, generating a respectable 2,692 MBps. The 14- and 16-inch 2023 M2 MacBook Pros, on the other hand, outperformed this statistic, scoring 5,319 and 5,717, respectively.
The M1 MacBook Air scored 36.9 frames per second in Sid Meier’s Civilization VI: Gathering Storm test, which was little slower than the M1 Pro’s 38.2 frames per second. With both M1 laptops, Rise of the Tomb Raider operated at 29 frames per second when run at Very High settings at 1440 x 900 resolution.
Sadly, the M2 MacBook Pro’s gaming performance isn’t all that superior to that of its M1 predecessor. However, with the release of the M3 MacBook Pro, which is more game-focused, this should hopefully improve. The improved GPU in Apple’s most recent chipset has Dynamic Caching, a function that allocates memory in real time and uses that precise amount of RAM for certain activities. This should very likely improve the M3 Pro’s ability to run demanding current games.
Other cutting-edge graphical capabilities, like as mesh shading and hardware-accelerated ray tracing, are also making their debut on the M3. To put it in non-technological terms, this should lead to environments with better detail and more realistic lighting. During our hands-on evaluation of the M3 MacBook Pro, we tested both Lies of P and Baldur’s Gate 3, and the results really shocked us.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison: BATTERY LIFE
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | Battery life |
| M1 MacBook Air | 14:41 of web browsing (M1, tested) | Up to 18 hours of video playback (M1, claimed) | 9:31 (Intel, tested) |
| M2 MacBook Air | 14:06 (tested) |
| M2 MacBook Pro 14-inch | 14:06 (tested) |
| M2 MacBook Pro 16-inch | 18:56 (tested) |
| M3 MacBook Pro 14-inch | 22:00 (untested) |
| M3 MacBook Pro 16-inch | 22:00 (untested) |
Another area where Apple’s switch to its own M1 processors has paid off handsomely is in battery life. In our battery test, which involves continuously browsing the web at 150 nits, the M1 MacBook Air lasted for 14 hours and 41 minutes, while the M1 Pro (16:32) lasted even longer. Both of these times blow away the 16-inch MacBook Pro (10:55).
The MacBook Pros of 2021 outperform these figures. The MacBook Pro 14-inch held out for 14:08 in our tests, while the MacBook Pro 16-inch held out for 15:31. In contrast, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with M2 outperforms them thanks to a test battery life of an astounding 18 hours and 20 minutes.
But in our battery test, the 16-inch MacBook Pro 2023 with the M2 Max chip wins hands down, lasting almost 19 hours (18:56). That puts it among the laptops with the longest battery life that Tom’s Guide has examined.
When it comes to durability, MacBooks continue to rule the laptop market. Additionally, it seems unlikely that a laptop with a longer battery life will be released very soon, despite Apple’s boasts that the new M3 MacBook Pro can run on its battery for 22 hours.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison: AUDIO
The new MacBook Pros include a six-speaker configuration with two sets of force-canceling woofers and a pair of tweeters, which puts them on another level compared to the MacBook Air, which nevertheless has excellent stereo sound.
To put it simply, the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models offer an even more robust audio profile by combining an octave lower sound with greater bass. Furthermore, rather than merely supporting headphones, the new MacBook Pros can play Dolby Atmos music via their speakers.
MACBOOK AIR VS PRO : VALUE AND PRICE
With a starting price of $999, the MacBook Air with M1 continues to be the best bargain.
In comparison, the M2 MacBook Pro 14-inch starts at $1,999. Even though it’s a significant investment, you get a better and larger 14-inch mini-LED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, a clearer 1080p webcam, and more connections overall. However, to fully benefit from all of these advantages, you probably need to have a heavy workload.
For those who require the largest display, the M2 MacBook Pro 16-inch is the best Apple laptop and costs $2,499 appropriately. Additionally, the battery will last longer. However, as we’ve noted throughout this piece, keep in mind that Apple is about to release its M3 MacBook Pro lineup, which means that the (relatively new) M2 Pro models’ prices will probably drop significantly during the early Black Friday 2023 sales.
MacBook Pro vs MacBook Air comparison :WHAT SHOULD YOU BUY?
Given that different users have varied needs, this can be a bit problematic. To put it in trite form, there is a MacBook for everyone.
For the majority of users, the M2 MacBook Air is the greatest MacBook because it offers amazing performance and a longer battery life in a relatively portable package. Because of its remarkable portability for its screen size, the more modern M2 MacBook Air 15-inch is also something to think about if you have the extra money.
The lineup of MacBook Pro models that Apple offers are highly recommended if you require a laptop that can handle even the most taxing daily computer chores. If you need that extra horsepower.
As of this writing, the M2 MacBook Pro 16-inch is the best high-end purchase for power users who desire the largest screen possible for both home and travel.
Naturally, that will soon change with the arrival of the M3 MacBook Pro series, where you can build an M3 MacBook Pro 16-inch with M3 Max for an astounding $4,999 if you somehow need 128GB of RAM—sorry, “unified memory”—if you want the best of the best.
Recall that you can probably get a somewhat less expensive model (a 14-inch MacBook Pro from 2022 rather than 2023, for example) without significantly compromising performance if you want to save a little cash. To ensure you’re receiving the best deal possible, before you buy, make sure to check out our guide to the greatest MacBook offers!
Conclusion
The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are two laptops with different specifications and features. The MacBook Pro is ideal for graphic designers, music producers, photographers, videographers, 3D artists, or developers of iOS games and apps, as it doesn’t lag, overheat, or slow down while dealing with heavy graphics processing and background apps.
The MacBook Air is suitable for students or those working in Google Suite or Microsoft Office Suite, as it can handle casual internet browsing, watching YouTube or Netflix, responding to emails, and FaceTime with friends without being too heavy. The MacBook is also a great choice for those looking to add a personal Apple environment with a computer that pairs easily with other items like AirPods and the iPhone. The handoff feature allows easy switching between FaceTime chats on the MacBook and iPhone, as well as access to iPhone’s contacts, files, and images.
The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are both available with Retina displays, but the Pro model offers better brightness. The Air has a maximum brightness of 365.8 nits, while the Pro model has a higher maximum brightness of 434.8 nits. The Liquid Retina XDR screens on the MacBook Pros 2021 and 2023 offer a brightness rating of 1,000 nits, and a 120Hz ProMotion display for improved performance.
The new M3 MacBook Pro offers a 20% increase in brightness over the M2 model while processing SDR content. The 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros are the winners in terms of display quality, keyboard, and performance. The MacBook Pro has a full-sized function key that is easier to type on than the Air’s half-sized ones. The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros also have a separate function row of physical keys, making them more compatible with any MacBook
FAQs
Is A MacBook Air better than a MacBook Pro?
But the Pro’s improved internals under the hood give it additional power. Compared to the Air models, the M3 MacBook Pro models have more unified memory, better battery life, additional connectors (like as HDMI and SD card), and, in general, a more advanced GPU and CPU.
Do MacBook Pros last longer than airs?
In our battery test, which involves continuously browsing the web at 150 nits, the M1 MacBook Air lasted for 14 hours and 41 minutes, while the M1 Pro (16:32) lasted even longer. Both of these times blow away the 16-inch MacBook Pro (10:55). The MacBook Pros of 2021 outperform these figures.
What are the disadvantages of MacBook Air?
The limited choices for upgrades for MacBooks is another significant drawback. There are very few upgrading options because the processor and memory are combined onto a single circuit board.