Apple’s M4 MacBook Air: Faster, Cheaper, and Smarter | Image Source: www.theverge.com
March 11, 2025 – Apple officially launched the MacBook Air powered by M4, with a better mix of performance, subtle design parameters and a surprising price drop. Although the new model does not introduce a radical overhaul, it refines what has already made MacBook Air a favourite among consumers and professionals. According to early publications such as MacRumors, The Verge and ZDNet, the latest iteration offers remarkable speed improvements, a new color option and a long-demand external screen support, as well as the base price drops to $999.
What’s up on the MacBook Air M4?
At first glance, the MacBook Air M4 seems almost identical to its predecessor. The same elegant and fine aluminum body is now available in a fresh Sky Blue finish, replacing the long-standing Space Gray option. However, under the surface, Apple made several key improvements:
- M4 Chip: Up to 30% faster than the M3, delivering better performance for multitasking and creative work.
- 12MP Center Stage Camera: A sharper, AI-powered webcam that adjusts framing during video calls.
- Dual External Display Support: Unlike previous models, the M4 MacBook Air can now connect to two external monitors without needing to close its lid.
- Thunderbolt 4 Ports: Faster data transfer and improved connectivity.
- Base Model Upgrades: The entry-level version now includes 16GB of unified memory instead of the previous 8GB.
- Price Reduction: The 13-inch model now starts at $999, down from $1,099.
How fast is the M4 chip?
The new M4 chip is at the heart of the latest MacBook Air tests, and reference tests confirm that it offers a performance leap. According to Geekbench 6 scores, the M4 offers about 30% of multicore performance faster than the M3 results. Cinebench 2024 highlights its improvements in processor efficiency, making it a solid option for users who trust demanding applications such as Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro and Photoshop.
Is the central stage camera a game changer?
Apple has updated the MacBook Air webcam on a 12 megapixel sensor with Center Stage support, a feature that automatically tracks users during video calls. Devindra Hardawar from Engadget noted:
“The jump to a 12 megapixel camera Center Stage is not exactly terracing, but I appreciate having a slightly better image during video calls. Usually I turn off the real functionality of the central scene in Mats, but I’m sure some will appreciate your ability to follow it around a room. »
This MacBook Air update at MacBook Pro, improving video conferencing experiences for remote workers and students.
Why is the $999 price so important?
One of the most surprising changes is the 13-inch model price drop, which now starts at $999. This makes it the most affordable MacBook Air with Apple’s latest chip, effectively replacing the oldest M2 models in Apple’s alignment. According to Jason Snell of Six Colors:
“That’s why the most important change in the MacBook Air M4 is its basic configuration, which starts at $999. When Apple introduced a new flat glans winner with Air Design rounded in 2022, he had to continue selling old models to lower under a thousand dollars. Three years later, Apple is finally able to sell a new air, with a generous 16 GB of unified memory, at this important price.”
This movement makes MacBook Air an even more attractive option for students, professionals and budget-conscious buyers looking for a high quality laptop.
Does the blue sky replace grey space?
Apple introduced Sky Blue as a new color option, replacing the long-standing Space Gray finish. Andrew Cunningham of Ars Technica said:
“I love Sky Blue, and it’s probably my favorite of the three light color options, although I want it to be more saturated. It is similar in tone to the blue finish that Microsoft offers for its Surface devices, but I prefer the Microsoft version because it is especially blue.”
While some users may enjoy the cool color, others regret the loss of Space Gray, which has been a MacBook baseline for almost a decade.
Should you get on M4 MacBook Air?
For users considering an update, the decision depends to a large extent on their current device. If you’re using an old MacBook or M1/M2 model, M4 performance increases, double screen support and updated web camera make it a valuable investment. However, if you already have a MacBook Air M3, the changes may not be important enough to warrant an immediate update.
In general, the MacBook Air M4 represents a solid refinement of an already excellent laptop. With higher speed, better video playback capabilities, better external monitor support and lower starting price, Apple made the MacBook Air even more interesting in 2025.
