Understanding the Difference Between a MacBook and a MacBook Air
When considering an Apple laptop, two popular options often cross the buyer's mind: the MacBook and the MacBook Air. These models, while both sleek and similar in design, come with distinct differences that cater to different needs. This article aims to explore these key differences, particularly focusing on the latest models—2020 MacBook Air and 2019 MacBook Air—and the upcoming M3 and M2 versions. Let's delve into the specifics and help you choose the right Apple laptop for your requirements.
Key Differences: 2020 MacBook Air vs. 2019 MacBook Air
The 2020 MacBook Air marks a generational upgrade, offering several improvements over the 2019 model. This article will primarily compare these two versions of the MacBook Air to highlight the benefits of the latest model.
1. Processor and Performance
The 2020 MacBook Air boasts an upgraded 10th-generation Intel Core processor, marking a significant leap in performance and efficiency. This improvement is especially notable for users who require more powerful computing capabilities for demanding tasks. On the other hand, the 2019 MacBook Air uses the older 8th-generation Intel Core processor, which is slightly less powerful. This difference is not only measurable in raw processing power but also in the overall smoothness of the user experience.
2. Keyboard and Typing Comfort
A notable improvement in the 2020 MacBook Air is the switch to the Magic Keyboard, replacing the problematic Butterfly mechanism with a more reliable scissor mechanism. The new keyboard offers enhanced typing comfort and durability, making it a preferred choice for frequent users. In contrast, the 2019 MacBook Air still retains the Butterfly keyboard, which some users found less satisfactory due to issues like key reliability and responsiveness.
3. Storage Options
The 2020 MacBook Air reintroduced a higher base storage option, starting with 256GB instead of the 128GB in the 2019 model. Both models support up to 16GB of RAM, but the 2020 model leads with faster LPDDR4X RAM, providing a noticeable speed advantage. This performance upgrade is especially beneficial for tasks that require a lot of memory and processing power.
4. Display and Visuals
The 2020 MacBook Air features a better display with True Tone technology, which offers more accurate colors and white balance adjustments based on the ambient lighting. This feature provides a more immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for video consumption and professional work.
Upcoming M3 and M2 MacBook Air Models
The latest MacBook Air models, featuring the M3 and M2 chips, represent another significant advancement. The M3, being one generation newer, introduces AV1 next-generation video codec, improved voice isolation for the mic, and hardware-accelerated ray tracing. These features enhance daily tasks, making them considerably faster. In fact, the M3 version is expected to perform daily tasks about 17-21% faster overall.
Choosing the Right Apple Laptop
With a wide range of options available, it's essential to choose the right Apple laptop based on your needs. For most consumers, the MacBook Air offers a perfect balance of performance and affordability. However, for users working with multimedia applications like Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and other professional software, the MacBook Pro is the better choice.
For those eagerly awaiting the next MacBook Air upgrade, it might be wise to hold off for a few more weeks. Apple is rumored to announce a larger screen size, a feature that many potential buyers are particularly looking forward to. This will be a significant consideration for those who already bought the Pro in search of a larger screen.
In conclusion, whether you choose a MacBook or MacBook Air, or await the next generation, Apple's offerings cater to a wide range of needs. Carefully evaluating your specific requirements will help you make an informed decision.