Comparing MacBooks: Air vs Pro

Comparing MacBooks: Air vs Pro

It’s fair to say that Apple’s MacBooks dominate the laptop industry. They offer sleek design combined with Apple’s signature iOS software, as well as continuous upgrades in terms of capabilities and performance. Whether you’re new to the world of MacBooks or considering an upgrade, choosing the right model can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve created this blog! We’ve created a detailed comparison of the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, breaking down their key differences to help you decide which one best suit your needs. And if you’re planning to sell your MacBook to upgrade to the latest model, our hassle-free recycling service makes the process simple and efficient.

What are the Key Differences?

Even if you’re a seasoned Apple user, sometimes it can be tricky to differentiate between all the products they offer. Whilst the Air and Pro share some of the same core details, there are also some defining differences between them:

  • Pricing: The main difference between these models is the price, with the Pro costing more than Air Models. The MacBook Air 15-in (M3) and the MacBook Pro 16-in (M4 Pro or M4 Max) retail for £1,299, whereas the Pro sells for £2,499 on the Apple website. So, if you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option, we recommend the MacBook Air.
  • Screen Size: Although the screen sizes of these two laptops don’t vary greatly, it’s still worth considering when shopping for a MacBook. The Air tends to come in 13-inch and 15-inch varieties, and the Pro in 14-inch and 16-inch varieties. For a space-saving computer, the Air is the best choice; however, if you value larger screens, perhaps for photo or video editing, the 16-inch Pro might be best suited.
  • Storage and Battery Life: As the more expensive model, the MacBook Pro has some advantages in terms of battery life and storage. For instance, the MacBook Air 15-in (M3) has up to 2TB storage and 18 hours of battery life, compared to 8TB storage and 24 hours of battery life for the MacBook Pro 16-in (M4 Pro or M4 Max).
  • Display: The tech community highlights one of the key differences between these two models of MacBook in their display. The MacBook Air has a Liquid Retina Display. In contrast, the Pro has a Liquid Retina XDR display, which means that the Pro has improved colour accuracy, in addition to other display benefits. This characteristic isn’t important to all Apple customers but is especially valued by those who use it for streaming media or gaming.

Remember – these differences can be dependent on the version, so be sure to consult the exact laptop you’re interested in for specifics.

Choosing the Right MacBook for Your Needs

There are a vast number of minor details when it comes to laptop specifications, so refining them to make the perfect choice for your needs can be overwhelming. When comparing the two, using this set of questions can help you determine which MacBook is right for you:

What are you using it for? This may seem like a general question, but consider whether you intend to use this laptop for personal or business use, and take into account the different features they offer for each of these purposes. For example, if you’re planning to travel frequently with your new laptop, then MacBook Airs tend to be on the lighter side, making them more adapted to travel.

What is your budget? This should be the foundation for determining which model you choose, as you ultimately want to select a MacBook that is within your budget. MacBook Pros tend to be on the pricier side, but often, the price difference between certain Air and Pro models can be minimal, depending on the model you choose. A smaller, older, or even second-hand MacBook Pro may be just the same price as a new MacBook Air, so it’s worth considering all your options before coming to a final decision.

What features are most important to you? Apple products tend to share the same core principles, like their advanced performance and iconic iOS design, so it’s then a toss-up of which features matter most to you in your everyday life. For instance, connectivity capabilities can vary depending on the laptop, as Pro models can come with HDMI ports, whereas the Airs often don’t. These minor details could be the separating factor for your decision, so it’s worth looking into the fine print.

We hope you’ve found this guide helpful in deciding between a MacBook Pro and Air. No matter the model you choose, Apple’s reliability and high performance mean that you’ll be getting an excellent-quality laptop either way. The purchase of a new MacBook can be made easier if you choose to sell your MacBook. With our recycling service, you can secure guaranteed quotes, quick payment and an overall easy process. If you’re a business looking for a trusted mobile recycling solution, check out our Mazuma Business service, where you’ll get dedicated device collection and other benefits. Feel free to contact us with any queries, and a member of the team will be happy to assist.