MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro: Which Should You Buy?

The decision between the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro can be challenging since both have their strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider.

Key Considerations

FeatureMacBook AirMacBook Pro
Price RangeStarts at $999 (M1) / $1,099 (M3)Starts at $1,999 (M2) / $1,599 (M3)
WeightLightest model: 2.7 lbsLightest model: 3.5 lbs (14-inch)
PortabilityBest for portabilityLess portable but more powerful
Ports2 Thunderbolt / USB-C ports, 1 headphone jackMore ports: 3 Thunderbolt, HDMI, SD Card, MagSafe, 1 headphone jack
Display13.6-inch (2560 x 1664)14.2-inch (3024 x 1964) / 16.2-inch (3456 x 2234), brighter displays with mini-LED
KeyboardMagic Keyboard (no Touch Bar)Magic Keyboard (dedicated function keys)
PerformanceGood for everyday tasksBest for demanding tasks (video editing, gaming)
Battery LifeUp to 18 hours (M2) / Up to 15 hours (M3)Up to 17 hours (M2 Pro) / Up to 15 hours (M3 Pro)
AudioDecent sound qualityBetter speakers with richer audio
Best ForStudents, light users, portabilityProfessionals, creators, high-performance needs

Design

ModelDimensions (inches)Weight (lbs)
M1 MacBook Air12 x 8.4 x 0.62.8
M2 MacBook Air11.97 x 8.46 x 0.442.7
M2 MacBook Pro 14″12.31 x 8.71 x 0.613.5
M2 MacBook Pro 16″14.01 x 9.77 x 0.664.7 to 4.8

Performance Comparison

ModelCPUGPURAM Options
M1 MacBook AirApple M1Integrated 7-core GPU8GB to 16GB
M2 MacBook AirApple M2Integrated 8-core GPU8GB to 24GB
M2 MacBook Pro 14″M2 Pro/MaxUp to 38-core GPU16GB to 96GB
M2 MacBook Pro 16″M2 Pro/MaxUp to 38-core GPU16GB to 96GB
M3 MacBook Pro 14″M3/M3 Pro/MaxUp to 18-core GPU8GB to 128GB
M3 MacBook Pro 16″M3/M3 Pro/MaxUp to 40-core GPU8GB to 128GB

Display Comparison

ModelScreen SizeResolutionBrightness (nits)
M1 MacBook Air13.3 inches2560 x 1600365.8
M2 MacBook Air13.6 inches2560 x 1664489
M2 MacBook Pro 14″14.2 inches3024 x 1964Up to 474.6
M2 MacBook Pro 16″16.2 inches3456 x 2234Up to 1,000 (HDR)

Final Thoughts

  • Choose the MacBook Air if you need a lightweight, portable laptop for everyday tasks like browsing, document editing, and streaming.
  • Choose the MacBook Pro if you need a powerful machine for professional use, such as video editing, graphic design, or gaming.