Chat with us, powered by LiveChat

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: How are they different? Which one is for you?

The niggling doubt when considering whether to buy a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro is now more apparent than ever. With Apple's new processor, the M1 Chip, inside, it may seem as if there are few differences. Today at istyle we will explain everything so that you can choose the one that best suits you. Let's go!

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: The Same Apple M1 Chip
Until now, one difference between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro ranges was the processor. However, with the new lines, both the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro have Apple's M1 Chip. This means that with either of the two you will be able to perform the same tasks at incredibly fast speeds.

So is the performance the same on the MacBook Air as on the MacBook Pro? For shorter, brief tasks, yes. Let us explain what we mean - the MacBook Air is a super silent Mac because, for the first time, it does not need a fan thanks to the efficiency of the M1 Chip. The MacBook Pro does still have the fan, therefore it will be able to give you better performance during long periods of work.

If you are going to use your Mac to do professional video editing, 3D rendering, and ultimately, intense work for long hours, we recommend the MacBook Pro as it will be able to cope much better than the MacBook Air.

If, on the other hand, you are looking for a Mac for everyday use, and you want to be sure that you will have maximum performance exactly when you need it, your model is the MacBook Air.

M1 Chip

The Design of the MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro
The design is similar, although there are subtle differences. When comparing the design of the MacBook Air to the MacBook Pro, both occupy practically the same space, with the same width and depth. The MacBook Air has a wedge-shaped finish, while the MacBook Pro keeps its straight edges. Regarding the weight, the difference is just over 100 grams. The MacBook Air weighs 1.29kg, while the MacBook Pro comes in at 1.4kg.

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Display and brightness
The screen is the same size on both the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro. They are both 13.3" and capable of reproducing colors in an ultra-precise way. Both are excellent for tasks such as editing photographs at a professional level thanks to the perfect calibration.

The only difference you'll find between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro is the brightness level. The MacBook Air has a brightness of 400 nits and the MacBook Pro a brightness of 500 nits. You won't notice this during everyday tasks; however, if you use the Mac outdoors or in places with a lot of lighting or reflection, the MacBook Pro is your best option.

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Which one has the longest battery life?
As we have seen, both the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro have Apple's M1 Chip. This processor gives Macs great energy efficiency, which is why they are the Macs with the longest battery life in the history of the company. The MacBook Air gives you up to 18 hours of life and the MacBook Pro up to an incredible 20 hours.

In both cases, they almost double the duration compared to the previous generation. So, if you are choosing between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro based on battery life, you have to think about whether you need those extra hours that the MacBook Pro gives you, or if you are really going to spend that much time using the Mac without the charger.

MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro: Even more differences
We bet you didn't think there were so many differences between the MacBook Air and the MacBook Pro! There are still some more. The MacBook Pro has more powerful speakers with greater bass. Plus, their microphones are studio-quality. If you use the Mac for a lot of video conferences or watching movies and series, you will notice a definite improvement.

Do you still have questions? At istyle we have a magnificent comparison table which shows the differences in detail. And if you are still not clear which model to buy, here is our product recommender in which, by answering a few brief questions, you will discover the most suitable model for you.